Ryder’s New Year’s Eve

Ryder

December 31, 2025

Time has passed and the old year ends

At midnight do we greetings send

For a Happy New Year

And to be full of cheer

Midnight strikes with a solemn gong

The old year has departed and gone

In times past tradition dictated to bring in some coal*

Bringing in good luck to every soul

By a dark haired stranger I hasten to add

To see them the folk seemed quite glad

Out of the back door went the old

And the hearth swept when it was cold

So open the front door wide

And let the good luck come inside

Presents used to be exchanged on New Year’s Day

But Victorian traditions have moved it away **

Waiting for that magic hour

As hands on Big Ben move slowly round the tower

Fireworks in the sky flashing bright

Technology sent round the world at speed of light

Parties held to enjoy and exhilarate

Families give hugs and celebrate

The countdown soon begins

At the stroke of midnight the whole world joins hands and sings

A cordial Auld Lang Syne.

Notes:

* Known as first footing – a tradition still continued in Scotland

** The exchange of presents was moved to Christmas Day

My thanks to my colleagues at the Recovery College for their inspiration with what New Year means to them.

IT REMAINS TO WISH EVERYONE A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR

RYDER 2025