My Dear (Substack) Acquaintances: I Raise a Glass to You Today

Your Friendship Helps Me Grow as a Person and a Writer

Photo by Matthieu Joannon on Unsplash

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As a reader AND a writer here on Substack, it feels like I’ve found my ‘tribe.’

I hear this word used often these days, referring to a group of people with strong common traits, values, or interests.¹ The Urban Dictionary defines a tribe as close friends, a group of people who are loyal to you or care for you like family.

You guys and gals are a sweet combination of both. People who understand the allure of giving intangible thoughts meaning or purpose. And folks who feel some connection to your words. Understanding and connection are the stuff of all great relationships (even if they are virtual.)

Writing, for me, is therapeutic. It allows me to give credence to the ideas that swirl around in my brain. Sometimes my life experiences seem like something only I could understand. But then someone leaves a Comment or a Like that shows I’m not alone in those feelings. What a wonderful affirmation that is…safety in numbers, you know!

Reading diverse newsletters helps me learn and grow as a person and writer. It’s interesting to hear about the different countries, traditions, and vernacular of folks outside the United States. All of your stories, from the silly to the serious, teach lessons I might not learn otherwise. I’m genuinely grateful.

Therefore, I’m sending a virtual celebratory toast to everyone. I wish you all health, happiness, and great reading & writing in 2023. Thanks for being here.

Cheers!

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• Please enjoy the 3-minute music video (with lyrics) below. Recorded by Peggy Lee in 1983 (not 1960), it features clips from The Gold Rush (1925) starring Charlie Chaplin.

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My Dear Acquaintance - Lyrics

My dear acquaintance,

it's so good to know you
For strength of your hand
that is loving and giving
And a happy new year
with love overflowing
With joy in our hearts
for the blessed new year

Raise your glass

and we'll have a cheer
For us all who are
gathered here
And a happy new year

to all that is living
To all that is gentle,
kind, and forgiving
Raise your glass

and we'll have a cheer
My dear acquaintance,
a happy new year


All of those who are

hither and yonder
With love in our hearts
We grow fonder and fonder
Hail to those who
we hold so dear
And hail to those
who are gathered here

And a happy new year

to all that is living
To all that is gentle,
young, and forgiving
Raise your glass

and we'll have a cheer
My dear acquaintance,
a happy new year
...Happy new year

1. dictionary.com