Two songs to end 2009.
1. Auld Lang Syne. Robert Burns wrote this in 1788. I'm not really sure how it became a New Year's tune, but the lyrics speak to friendships across time and space. It's traditionally sung slowly, almost mournfully, as Dougie MacLean sings it here. The final verse is about raising a toast.
And there’s a hand, my trusty fiere
and gie's a hand o’ thine
and we’ll tak a right gude-willy waught
for auld lang syne.
If your Scots is wanting, here's a rough translation:
And here's a hand, my trusty friend
and give us a hand of thine
we'll take a right good-will drink
for old times gone by.
I've always thought that was too somber a note to go out on; it makes me believe the friends drinking their toast are parting for too long a time. Sly and the Family Stone's "Thank You" is how I prefer to think about those around me. So, here's to you. I hope you dance into 2010.
Thanks for you. I hope you dance into the new year.