Same Old Lang Syne

[Otokichi]

As December winds down and the new year draws near, old memories appear, like smoke from a fire long turned to ashes. I've always felt that Dan Fogelberg's song summed up the end of the old year as the new year arrived. No, I never had anyone that memorable come to mind as firecrackers and (illegal) aerial fireworks polluted the air. (Everyone catches a ride with the Chinese custom of firecrackers burned to ward off evil spirits, though some unleash what sound like bombs.) Rest in Peace, Dan, even if you're not in the "Rock & Roll Hall of Fame."