AULD LANG SYNE 2013

Today is the 365th day of the year 2013, the last day marking preparation for the final hour, minutes, and seconds of yet another year. With the passing of its last second comes a new beginning, a new year filled with hopes and promises in the form of resolutions for some while others enter the year without resolve. 

Embrace the past. . .

In sentimental American movies, "Auld Lang Syne" is sung by hundreds, maybe even thousands, at the big New Year finale. While it is still traditional to sing "Auld Lang Syne" at the end of one year, beginning of another, where did the song originate? 

Some resources quote in 1788, Scottish poet/songwriter Robert Burns, penned the words to "Auld Lang Syne." As with many writings from past generations, there is often controversy. It is, however, one of the many folk songs from the great Lowland Scots tradition. One of the most interesting facts is that the Auld Lang Syne tune that has conquered the world being sung from Times Square to Tokyo is not the one to which it is reported that Robert Burns put the original words.

Auld Lang Syne : Lyrics

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And auld lang syne!

Chorus.-For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne.
We'll take a cup o' kindness yet,
For auld lang syne.   

 Empower the present. . .

Today is New Year's Eve and here we are waiting in anticipation the arrival of 2014! With New Year's Eve comes immense celebration: partying well into the night and even beyond the bewitching, magical midnight hour. Families and friends gather to "ring out the old and ring in the new!" amid the socialization of dancing, singing, eating, drinking and watching or lighting fireworks. Many will attend a watchnight service, a late-night Christian church service. 

As the hands of the clock approach midnight, billions of pairs of eyes worldwide will be fixed upon the dazzling lights and bustling energy of New York City's Times Square. Whether physically present within the square itself or glued to the television screen, adrenalin runs rampant with anticipation. A global tradition awaits commencement. The world holds it breath as the famous New Year's Eve Ball descends slowly. 

Voices resonate the countdown...10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, until the clock strikes twelve. Tall and short glasses are raised with excitement as voices in unison shout "Happy New Year!"amid the explosion of hundreds of fireworks...

  History of New Year's Eve
Watch the History of New Year's Eve Times Square Video 

Enrich the future. . .

As we move past midnight into the dawn of 2014, may your thoughts be affixed upon resolutions of joy, peace and happiness. Look to the future in ways of enrichment for America: recovery and renewal! Remain attuned to changes that are wanted, more importantly needed, for hope, faith and courage to remain in the forefront of our nation. 

Let your hearts be mindful of those who will not be celebrating with family and friends, some perhaps on homeland soil, while others across oceans and continents. They continue to protect and defend our nation from enemies who lurk about waiting, watching, plotting for the right moment to destroy.

  Our protectors, our defenders, we salute you!