For Auld Lang Syne

Every New Year’s Eve, at the stroke of midnight, people usher in the new year by bidding goodbye to the year just passed by singing Auld Lang Syne.  Written in 1788 by Robert Burns, Auld Lang Syne is a Scots poem set to the tune of a traditional folk song. In essence, the phrase ‘auld lang syne” translates to “once upon a time.” The song begins by asking if it is right that the old days and acquaintance be forgotten. It urges us to leave the past behind, let go of old grudges and things of the last year, and look forward to the year to come. While those who forget history are doomed to repeat it, I think there is something to be said about letting bygones be bygones, and entering the new year with a clean slate. With that in mind, what are you holding on to that you need to let go? I’ll be in my room working through my list.

Should old acquaintance be forgot,

and never brought to mind?

Should old acquaintance be forgot,

and old lang syne?

CHORUS:

For auld lang syne, my dear,

for auld lang syne,

we’ll take a cup of kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

And surely you’ll buy your pint cup!

and surely I’ll buy mine!

And we’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We two have run about the slopes,

and picked the daisies fine;

But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,

since auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We two have paddled in the stream,

from morning sun till dine†;

But seas between us broad have roared

since auld lang syne.

CHORUS

And there’s a hand my trusty friend!

And give me a hand o’ thine!

And we’ll take a right good-will draught,

for auld lang syne.

CHORUS

                                       “Auld Lang Syne” by Robert Burns, 1788