A Kindred Reflection

Time heralds forth a sacred ritual.

The stroke of midnight came, 

Another chapter begins,

The clocks tick-tock in the arrival

A new year is only seconds away.

Crowds gathered to share in mirth and celebration,

Families, friends, lovers and even lost souls,

All came to hail in the blessed hour.

When the first day brings its twenty-four hours, 

Some gather in harmony,

Others reel from a hangover,

Many rub the novelty away.

Soon all their sights are turned ahead,

Looking towards a sense of renewal,

A chance for change this year,

To bargain and break the old mold.

The pattern remains fixed,

2022 fades into dust,

Soon 2023 will do the same.

But not all of us sprint swiftly into the unknown.

Some, like myself, tread cautiously behind,

Though it seems like fear taking hold, 

It is a fond remembrance that anchors us at bay.

Before we follow the path ahead,

We journey into the past’s reflection,

Sharing communion with the dead.

To bask in one final honour, before parting ways.

So I take a moment here.

To be idle for a while.

Serving a kindred reflection upon 

How I came to be me,

Who I am now,

And who I will become,

Before I persist along this adventure. 

I pay my tribute, saying a solemn oath:

To those who came before,

To those who are here now,

And to those who will come after.

May the new year bring joy and abundance to all.

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A free-verse poem to celebrate 2023’s arrival. If you’re reading this, I hope that the festive holidays brought you plenty of mirth, comfort and peace. I wish you a Happy New Year!