Cameron Steers Hogmanay Reflection

As the final hours of the year tick away, many people around the world are preparing to ring in the New Year with celebrations and traditions. In Scotland, Hogmanay is a very special time-honored celebration that dates back centuries.

Hogmanay, is the Scottish word for the last day of the year, and it’s a time for reflection, renewal, and celebration. In Scotland, Hogmanay is a much bigger deal than New Year’s Eve, and it’s a time when people come together to celebrate with friends and family.

One of the most famous traditions of Hogmanay is the Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party, which attracts thousands of people from around the world. The celebration features live music, firework displays, and food and drink from around the country.

Another tradition of Hogmanay is the “first-footing” custom. This involves the first person to enter a home on New Year’s Day being seen as a symbol of good luck for the coming year. It’s customary for this person to bring gifts, such as food or drink, to the household to symbolize prosperity and good fortune in the year ahead.

Hogmanay isn’t just about partying and having a good time. It’s also a time for reflection and renewal. Many people in Scotland take this opportunity to reflect on the past year and set goals for the year ahead. It’s a time to let go of any negativity or setbacks from the past year and look forward to a bright and hopeful future. As I myself have been reflecting on last year, I’m totally overwhelmed with gratitude for all of the opportunities that I personally have been given this year. From being in New York City to help out with and celebrate our Burns Night back in February, to my first experience of NYC Tartan Week in April. From being able to travel around the North East of America promoting the work of the American Scottish Foundation at highland games and festivals with our stall, to being present to watch Lord Charles Bruce accept his award at our Wallace Awards Night. It’s been a very special year for the Scottish American Community in New York and beyond, again I would like to extend my thanks to Camilla, to Ken, and all at the foundation for including me and creating so many opportunities for this young Scot to feel belonging in such a welcoming and strong Scottish community.

As we say goodbye to another year and welcome in a new one, let’s take a moment to reflect on all that we’ve achieved and learned over the past year. And as we celebrate Hogmanay and the start of a new year, let’s also embrace the opportunity for renewal and look forward to all that the future holds. Happy Hogmanay from us all at the American-Scottish Foundation. Slàinte Mhath. 

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