Happy New Year A Reason To Smile Dan Rather and Team Steady Dec 29 Credit: Getty Images As we contemplate the end of a taxing and trying year, the sentiments of an albeit obvious choice could not be more appropriate. “Auld Lang Syne” has been a tradition and a favorite for decades. I’ve heard dozens of versions over the years, but I don’t think I’ve ever found one this beautiful. It’s certainly a reason to smile. The Choral Scholars of University College Dublin chamber choir performance is pure enchantment. The song, traditionally sung on New Year’s Eve, poses the question: How do we best remember old friends and fond moments of the past year? The answer, the song says, is to “share a cup of kindness yet” as we journey into the new year. “Auld Lang Syne” is based on an 18th century poem by Scotsman Robert Burns, which he based on traditional folk songs and stories. Burns sent a copy of his song to the Scots Musical Museum in 1788 with a note: “The following song, an old song, of the olden times, and which has never been in print, nor even in manuscript until I took it down from an old man.” Bandleader Guy Lombardo and his orchestra first wove the song into our national fabric almost 100 years ago, on New Year’s Eve 1929. He performed it every year for the next 47. Here is his final performance on December 31, 1976. To all of my Steady friends, thank you for your support, your comments, and your warm wishes this year. Our mettle has been tested, again and again. The coming year promises to be no different. With our love of country never wavering, I will be here, full time, doing my best to tell it like it is. Before we reach the new year, please take a moment to reflect on all that is good. Our lives are so blessed. Cherish what has been. The song evokes wonderful memories of friends, colleagues, and loved ones no longer present on earth but always in our hearts. Going forward, let’s keep our friends close and do as the song says: “share a cup of kindness yet.” Happy New Year, one and all.