Happy New Year?

When we say "happy new year!" to other humans this time of year, are we:

1) declaring a one-time happiness event has happened, or

2) wishing that for them that 2011 will be a happy year, or

3) swapping out our standard greeting "good to see you" for a more jazzy one, or

4) proposing a toast to the new year, and inviting our friends to join in?

Maybe it is all of those combined. And when can and do we stop saying "happy new year!"?

I think it is wonderful that we take advantage of closeout ceremonies and new beginning ceremonies. There is a TV commercial out that conveys the message of what if we celebrated the beginning of each new day like we do New Year's Eve. I like the idea.

Maybe in 2011 we should wear out our happy new year pronouncements in January, and replace them with "happy new day!" starting in February. What do you think?

Peace.