Those were the days, my friend

We thought they’d never end

We’d sing and dance forever and a day

We’d live the life we choose

We’d fight and never lose

For we were young and sure to have our way …

“Those Were the Days” is a ballad sung by Mary Hopkins that was released in 1969. It looks back on the past and remembers wonderful memories. It makes you think back with a sense of longing for simpler times like youth, romance and carefree gathering.

The song reflects on a time of being young and happy. It suggests that those days were less complicated and more carefree than today.

It talks about a tavern that symbolizes a place of social interaction, music and time shared with friends.

Then the busy years went rushing by us

We lost our starry notions on the way

If by chance I would see you at the tavern

We’d smile at one another and we’d say …

The songwriter talks about the passage of time and the changes that occur in our lives making our memories bittersweet.

Just tonight I stood before the tavern

Nothing seemed the way it used to be

In the glass I saw a strange reflection

Was that lonely woman really me?

I had just graduated from high school when this song was popular, but it seems like it was just yesterday. I can think back to singing this song with friends over a red beer (tomato juice/beer) and laughing and staying out till 2 a.m.

Then life happened. Full-time jobs, paying bills, getting married, having children and grandchildren. Having to say goodbye to our parents and loved ones who left this earth.

It is interesting to look in the mirror and see this 70ish old woman when inside I feel only 40. I have been given more happy memories than sad, and I have been blessed in my life.

Through the door, there came familiar laughter

I saw your face and heard you call my name

Oh, my friend, we’re older but no wiser

For in our hearts, the dreams are still the same …

This song is a great reminder to cherish the present, no matter how old you are. To remember the good times and to appreciate your past experiences.

So, with that, I’m going to pour a red beer, call up a friend and stay up and talk to 2 a.m.

Well … maybe just 9 p.m.

Mary Tobia is an occasional writer for the Times News. Reach her at tneditor@tnonline.com