Robert Burns, the Scotsman who lived just 37 years, penned the words to “Auld Lang Syne” when he was 29. Burns sent a copy to the Scots Musical Museum in 1788 with a note, saying “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.” While it wasn’t originally intended for New Year’s Eve, or Hogmanay in Scotland, it soon became a favorite song for the last evening of the year.
Is it right that old times be forgotten? This is the first question posed in “Auld Lang Syne.” And should old acquaintance, old friends, be forgotten, too? I hope not!
I think of the many connections I’ve made over the years. Some (too many) have passed away, but I’m comforted by fond memories of times spent together. Some have faded away, meaning the connection just isn’t there anymore. And that’s okay, too. A few have shown themselves to be something other than a friend, which is sad, but it happens. But for those that are still with me – thank you. I do treasure you. You matter to me. And while I can’t shake your hand or hug you hard this year, I will raise a cup o’ kindness – to you, to better days, decency, and to good health.
We have indeed wandered many a weary foot in 2020, even if we’ve mostly been at home. I don’t know about you, but I’m wrung out. Of course there have been good days, and laughter (thanks to my husband), and hope (each day dawns fresh), and I remain confident that the coming year will bring about change, (slow) healing, and promise. I have to believe it.
So, as I have have done in the past, I will leave you with my favorite version of “Auld Lang Syne.” Happy New Year!
“The seas between us have roared and swelled…”
Here’s the link to my favorite version of “Auld Lang Syne.”
Martha Reynolds Writes 
Wishing you everything good for 2021, dear Martha. There are flickers of hope – we all need courage right now; courage to hang in there and know that things will come right.
I wish you much inspiration and joy with your writing. You bring us all so much pleasure. You’re a beautiful and talented soul. Thank you, Martha 🙏😘❤️
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I think of the folks in Hong Kong whose lives blew up (collapsed? what’s the right word?) as China replaced their democracy with such stringent autocratic controls. And even the vast changes in South Africa. Why should the rest of us not have to be strong, also? I’m ready.
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Yes to all of this, Jacqui. So much for us leading the world.
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It’s officially 2021. May you have a very happy and healthy year. May we leave the chaos of 2020 in the rear view mirror. All the best.
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To you as well, Denise! Onward we go.
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Happy New Year, Martha. Here’s wishing for better days in 2021. Thank you for the James Taylor’s Auld Lang Syne. I love listening and singing to this song.
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Happy New Year, Bonnie! Yes, we look to the future with hope.
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This is lovely, Martha, and a true gift to read for so many of us. I particularly appreciated learning about the lines of the song and listening again to JT’s rendition.
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Happy New Year, Margaret!
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Beautiful and inspiring Martha. And a good reminder of all you have done to make 2020 a better year for all of your author friends. Never to be forgotten!
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That’s so nice of you to say, Phyllis. Thank you, and Happy New Year!
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A toast to you, my friend!
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Cheers!
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I’m glad to have trod this rough year with you, Martha, albeit at a remove. You hit just the right note in your message, acknowledging the difficulties and sadness while keeping hope flickering. I’m exhausted, but keep the glass half full.
I agree, this is a lovely version of “Auld Lang Syne,” in my collection as well.
Happy New Year, my friend, and may 2021 bring us happier, healthier, and gentler for all of us.
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Looking forward to seeing you in 2021, Connie!
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Happy New Year Martha! May 2021 bring us hope and peace.
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Indeed, Michelle – and it’s wonderful for you to have time with your adorable grandchildren – Happy New Year!
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