The traditional song thought of on New Years Eve is is one called Auld Lang Syne.
Most likely all of us have heard and love this song, but have you ever wondered where it came from and what it means?? In the 18th century as the year ended guests at party's used to end the night singing the song and standing in a circle (cute right?!?!). It started in Scotland and was written by a poet named Robert Burns. The song means "old long since" or "the good old days." Although we all celebrate ringing in the new year, this song actually pays tribute to the old year and what it has brought us. It encouraged the listeners to forget the past and look to the future with hope. Although I'm not sure forgetting the past is the best way to go, but maybe to grow and learn from it...
BTW, New years day has not always been recognized on January 1st. It was once on March 1st. It was changed by Caesar in honor of Janus, (Gate keeper of Heaven and Earth). This Roman god is depicted with 2 faces, one looking back at the past at one toward the future (the new year.) there was a traditional festival in which people exchanged gifts and made resolutions to be friendly and good to one another (now we just make resolutions to get skinny!). HOWEVER It wasn't until 1752 that Great Britain and the English colonies adopted the Gregorian calendar and accepted January as the New year.
Last year... and the year before, my New Years Resolution was to be a nicer person... lol (pretty sure that worked!). I think this year, it will be to be more flexible with my expectations and show people that I love and appreciate them more often!
So, what was your New Years Resolution?
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