We sing this song when the new year comes, but most of us know only a few of its lyrics. The title we know, but we might sing with more gusto if we could translate it into English.
Today the song is sung around the globe with the coming of the new year. Nations sing it in their own languages with joy, excitement, and anticipation of the developments of the new year. When the ball drops in Times Square, whether you are present on the square or viewing virtually, we sing Auld Lang Syne!
The phrase “auld lang syne” has been integral to Scottish culture since the 1600’s and had been used in earlier writings including poems as early as 1588. Robert “Rabbie” Burns, a Scottish poet, authored the poem, Auld Lang Syne, in 1788. Burns said an old man had shared an old Scottish folk song with him which Burns reproduced into a longer five-stanza poem. Auld Lang Syne immediately became popular in Scotland and as migration occurred over the centuries, the song was seeded into many languages and cultures.
The title, Auld Lang Syne, can be translated “For the sake of old times.” The word syne means “since then, ago, back.” The lyrics are about BFF’s (Best Friends Forever), running buddies, having a drink, and remembering past good times together.
The familiar lyrics to the first stanza of Auld Lang Syne are commonly sung when the new year arrives:
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And days of auld lang syne?
Chorus: For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne,
We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
For days of auld lang syne.
Reflections
The media, printed or electronic, is overflowing with the rationale for, the how to, and the benefit of making New Year’s resolutions. We make them and before January ends, we cease to address them. Do not make even one in January. Relax, be grateful, and let your family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors know they are appreciated.
Relax. Focus on those things that make you happy and make being with you a joy. Relax.
Be grateful. The virus, stress, an accident, many incidents could have deprived you of your life, your physical, mental, emotional, and even your spiritual health. Be grateful for the time you had with someone or possessed something.
In small ways and sincere words let people know you care for them. Your action is not contingent upon their response.
February may be a better time to set goals and one or two resolutions for 2022.
For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne,
We’ll take of cup of kindness yet,
For auld lang syne.
Dorothy Watson Tatem, D.Min., ACC
Senior Associate
A HAPPY and BLESSED NEW YEAR!
May God bless you in 2022 beyond all that you could ask.
Cassandra W. Jones, Ed.D.
CEO & President
Next Step Associates, LLC