Happy New Year
A Reason To Smile
As we contemplate the end of a taxing and trying year, the sentiments of an albeit obvious choice could not be more appropriate. “Auld Lang Syne” has been a tradition and a favorite for decades. I’ve heard dozens of versions over the years, but I don’t think I’ve ever found one this beautiful. It’s certainly a reason to smile. The Choral Scholars of University College Dublin chamber choir performance is pure enchantment.
The song, traditionally sung on New Year’s Eve, poses the question: How do we best remember old friends and fond moments of the past year? The answer, the song says, is to “share a cup of kindness yet” as we journey into the new year.
“Auld Lang Syne” is based on an 18th century poem by Scotsman Robert Burns, which he based on traditional folk songs and stories. Burns sent a copy of his song to the Scots Musical Museum in 1788 with a note: “The following song, an old song, of the olden times, and which has never been in print, nor even in manuscript until I took it down from an old man.”
Bandleader Guy Lombardo and his orchestra first wove the song into our national fabric almost 100 years ago, on New Year’s Eve 1929. He performed it every year for the next 47. Here is his final performance on December 31, 1976.
To all of my Steady friends, thank you for your support, your comments, and your warm wishes this year. Our mettle has been tested, again and again. The coming year promises to be no different. With our love of country never wavering, I will be here, full time, doing my best to tell it like it is.
Before we reach the new year, please take a moment to reflect on all that is good. Our lives are so blessed. Cherish what has been. The song evokes wonderful memories of friends, colleagues, and loved ones no longer present on earth but always in our hearts. Going forward, let’s keep our friends close and do as the song says: “share a cup of kindness yet.”
Happy New Year, one and all.
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Stay Steady,
Dan
This has indeed been a hard year, but I know especially so for you. Thank you for continuing to hold us up and give us hope, even through your own sorrow. I hope the coming year brings us better than we expect, and that the loved ones who surround you will help ease your sorrow.
For many years now I’ve been watching When Harry Met Sally on New Year’s Eve. In that movie Sally asks Harry what auld lang syne means which is why this topic reminds me of it. I had recorded this movie on my tv. I love romcoms, even cheesy predictable ones. I enjoy the part in the movie where happily married couples speak about how they met. Although I never found my soulmate, I just feel so happy when people are in love. There are many forms of love however. Recently a random stranger decided to buy me a hot chai tea latte and pastry at the cafe in Barnes and Noble. I asked if she would sit down and chat with me and she did. We had a pleasant conversation. Also, I noticed that several people seem to insist that I go ahead of them in line. Yesterday this guy who works at produce at my local supermarket chased after me to give me a poinsettia for free as they were going to throw it out. He then hugged me and kissed me on the cheek. There are many ways to show love and be loved. We must continue to do that for each other. May the year ahead bless you all with good health and happiness. For auld lang syne.