The new year seems to start with the song so many of us sing at the stroke of midnight, Auld Lang Syne. But what exactly does that mean? I’ve asked myself this question over and over again as each new year returns. This year is also the start of a new decade! So, I decided to do some research, out of curiosity, on what this song actually means. And here is what I found:

AULD LANG SYNE

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

And never brought to mind?

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

And auld lang syne!

Chorus- For auld lang syne, my dear,

For auld lang syne.

We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet,

For auld lang syne.

This song originated in Scotland in 1787 and was written by the poet Robert Burns. The meaning of ‘Auld’ is “Old” and the meaning of ‘Lang Syne’ is “Long Ago” or “Long Since.” The lyrics “We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet” refers to the tradition of raising a glass, or a cup of kindness meaning with “good will, friendship and kind regard”, in remembrance of “noble deeds.” There are more verses in the song, but these are what most people remember most.

So, it’s not a sad song to forget the things of the past, but just the opposite. To remember the fun times, the good memories, and hold on to the lasting friendships we’ve made.

Some people set “New Year’s Resolutions.” I’m not the type to do that. I know I can’t keep unrealistic goals, like dropping a few pounds, so I don’t waste my time and energy trying to. I do, on the other hand, have a “to do” bucket list for the year, like publishing another book in the SKIP THOMAS ADVENTURES series. That’s something realistic for me.

So far, there has been four things that are unheard of in the month of January in Utah. First, the price of a gallon of gas is $2.47. Second, the temperature on January 1st was 45 degrees. Which brings us to number three, no snow on my front lawn! And number four and most unheard of is, The New England Patriots aren’t going to the Super Bowl!

In closing this month, I wish to thank all the “Auld” memories and friendships Tim and I have made in 2019. We raise our glasses and toast 2020 to health, happiness, and to the new friendships and adventures that await us. We hope your New Year ahead is a safe, happy and healthy one as well.

Til next time, God bless,

Skip’s mom, Cb