Goodbye to The Old Year Poem
A reflective poem bidding farewell to the past year's challenges and regrets.
Updated December 1, 2025, by Catherine Pulsifer
As the old year comes to a close, "Good-bye, Old Year" by Lila R. Munro Tainter reminds us to take a moment to reflect. Each year brings its share of challenges and lessons, and this poem captures the bittersweet feelings of saying farewell to what has been. It encourages us to acknowledge the struggles we’ve faced while appreciating the strength we’ve gained along the way. The end of the year is a chance to let go of disappointments and embrace the growth that comes from life’s ups and downs.
This heartfelt poem inspires us to move forward with hope and determination. The start of a new year is like a fresh page, ready for new opportunities and brighter days. By leaving the burdens of the past behind, we can look ahead with optimism and a renewed sense of purpose. Let this poem be a reminder that endings can also be beginnings, and each new year is a chance to create a life filled with peace, joy, and possibility.
Good-bye, Old Year
Poet: Lila R. Munro Tainter
Good-bye, Old Year, the hours are swiftly flying;
The night has come at last and thou art dying.
Doth no repentance, no remorse assail thee,
As far and wide the wintry winds bewail thee?
Good-bye, good-bye.
Good-bye, Old Year; thou hast been most unkindly
To one who welcomed thee so fondly, blindly;
Who gave thee largess as a royal guest;
Whose trust thou didst betray with wild unrest.
Good-bye, good-bye.
Good-bye, Old Year who came in clouds of glory;
Thy breath upon my locks has left them hoary;
Thy lips were chill and filled me with alarms;
My roses faded in thy clasping arms.
Good-bye, good-bye.
Good-bye, Old Year; thy cruel hand, relentless,
Robbed memory of joy and made it Icentiess;
The wine of love poured from a shattered glass,
In blood-red drops upon a mound of grass.
Good-bye, good-bye.
Good-bye, Old Year. And now, since thou must leave me,
Wouldst sue for pardon wherein thou didst grieve me?
Restore sweet trust, make whole the broken heart,
And from remembrance pluck the poisoned dart; -
No answer-ruthless Year;
Good-bye, good-bye.
Key Message in this poem:
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Reflection on Life's Challenges
The poet reminds us that even when a year brings hardships, it’s essential to pause and reflect on how those experiences have shaped us. While pain and loss may linger, they can teach us resilience and deepen our understanding of life.
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Letting Go of the Past
This poem encourages us to say goodbye to the struggles and disappointments of the old year. It’s a powerful reminder that we cannot change the past, but we can release it to make space for new beginnings.
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Hope for Renewal
As the old year fades, the poet nudges us to embrace the hope that a new year offers—a chance to heal, rebuild, and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and trust in brighter days ahead.
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Conclusion
As we say goodbye to the old year, this poem reminds us that even the hardest moments can guide us toward strength and wisdom. Each ending carries lessons that help shape who we become. As you step into a new year, may you leave behind what weighed your heart down and carry forward the hope that brighter days wait ahead. Let this be a time to welcome fresh opportunities, renewed purpose, and a deeper sense of peace for the journey before you.
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