Old Long Since

In 1788, Robert Burns wrote the familiar and wistful ode to days gone by, Auld Lang Syne.  The title can be loosely translated “for (the sake of) old times,” but is appropriately “old long since.” You must have lived a while for anything to be old and still longer to want (or have time) to look back.  When we do look back, however, things are not murky but painfully clear.  It is joyful and hurtful at once.  Yet, it is something we ought to do.  We need memories.

Should we forget our old acquaintances never bringing them to mind?  Biblically, no.  Scripture urges us not to forget our friends or those of our family.  Loyalty is a spiritual value.  But, what about the days of the past?  Burns thought they were toastworthy.  Biblical writers viewed them as memorable.  Paul said that long-past events teach lessons that are valid today.  The ends of the world are coming.  You and I may be living in the very time.

If there is a problem in learning from past events, it is that it’s too late to do anything about them.  We can change the future…maybe.  Let’s remember yesterday.  It may help someday.  I have come to believe that much angst of the old is bound in worries for the young.  We pray they will listen and learn, but realize it is only the voice of God they will heed.  It was the same for us in our day.  Our memories need not die.  They should not be forgot.

Wherever you are on the spiritual continuum, it has taken your lifetime to get there.  None of us are as far along as we should be, and, for that, we can blame ourselves.  I thank God for His grace on me.  I just wished I hadn’t had to use as much of it.  Moses said our lives are like a story that can be told and retold.  As it should be.  So tell and retell- remember and remember.  A living memory of days gone by will serve yourself and your hearers.

There are fewer years ahead of me than lie behind.  Most of my learning was done long ago.  I’ve got some treasured memories in company with lasting regrets, but I must not forget days gone by.  They shine a light on the years ahead and teach lessons I need.  Others may need to access my memory bank, as well.  Recollections wax as resources wane.  Another year is coming to a close. I’ve got some phone calls to make.

Sterl

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