By: W.C. Reader

We like traditions. They are a way of keeping us in touch with our loved ones, creatures, friends, and events of the past, while we live in the present and look forward to the future.

Our good wife, Mama Doris, and we started one such tradition during the first year of our marriage (51 years ago) and with rare exceptions; it has endured through the present year. At the approach of midnight on New Year’s Eve, we turn on the radio (or T.V., or record player) where the late Guy Lombardo and his famous orchestra will be performing in their memorable style. Then we step over to Mama and ask her if we may have the next dance. So far, she never has refused. Then, at the stroke of midnight, as the band begins playing the traditional “Auld Lang Syne”, we start gliding (not always gracefully) around the living room. As the last notes of this lovely song fade away, we plant a kiss on Mama’s cheek, wish her “Happy New Year” and escort her back to her chair, where we indulge ourselves in a slice of fruitcake and a sip of some strong beverage such as milk, soda water or some other beverage of similar strength. Then we count our blessings (of which we have had many) during the past year, and then drift off into Dreamland.

Now you men who are staying home with your wives on New Year’s Eve, December 31, why don’t you follow in our footsteps? When the clock approaches midnight, why don’t you go over, take you wife by the hand, and tell her you want to dance with her. Then glide gently around the floor with her, just like in the old days. If you don’t have access to “Auld Lang Syne”, just hum or sing the song to her, and if you need help, we help by jotting down the words for one verse and the refrain. The words may not be entirely correct, but she’ll get the idea:

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

And never brought to mind?

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

And days of auld lang syne?

Refrain

For auld lang syne, my dear,

For auld lang syne.

We’ll drink a cup of kindness yet,

For days of auld lang syne.

Then give her a kiss. She’ll love you for it!

And now let us close out this year by saying to all of you, wherever you maybe: Happy New Year!

Country Boy and Mama Doris

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