Welcome 2024. I talked with my son on our dog walk today about the meaning of Auld Lang Syne. In life as we move on from one year to the next, we have a moment to reflect upon all the friends and acquaintances that have come and gone over time. We’re lucky to have life-long friends but in the modern era it’s rare.

I try to encourage my kids to remember that in life we should value our friendships and not take them for granted. Sometimes people drift apart over the course of time, but often we find that an old friend can still be called upon in times of need. 

2023 was an interesting year. Let’s all look back upon the good times, the hard times, the memories we want to keep, and those we’d be best to let go.

Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and never brought to mind?
Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and auld lang syne?

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.