For Auld Lang Syne

Posted by Karen on Dec 31, 2012 | 3 comments

Written by Robert Burns in 1788, “Auld Lang Syne” is a Scots poem set to the tune of a folk song. Well known in many countries, it is traditionally sung to celebrate the start of the New Year at the stroke of midnight:

Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind? / Should auld acquaintance be forgot and days of auld lang syne? / For auld lang syne, my dear, for auld lang syne / We’ll take a cup of kindness yet for days of auld lang syne

“For auld lang syne” might be loosely translated as “for (the sake of) old times”.

This song poses the rhetorical question: Is it right that old times with old friends be forgotten? Such a call to remember and honor long-standing friendships is recorded in 2 Samuel 9:1. David asked, “Is there anyone still left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”

Indeed, Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth—who became crippled as a child—was already grown by this time, and with a son of his own (v. 12). Although many years had already passed, David remembered his vow of friendship to Jonathan and his family (1 Samuel 20:14-17, 42). He knew that making good on a promise is always better late than never.

How appropriate it is to usher in a new year by first taking into account any unfulfilled obligations and setting things right! Only then can we face our dreams for the future with renewed hope and determination.