Leavin’ The Old An’ Greetin’ The New – Friendship Poem

Here’s another poem for your enjoyment.  It’s about friendship:

Leavin’ The Old An’ Greetin’ The New

It’s kind of tough t’ have t’ leave
So many folks you’ve learned t’ know,
An’ have ’em grip yer hand an’ tell
How much they hate t’ see you go!

It’s kinda tough t’ say goodbye
T’ friends you’ve seen day after day–
It’s hard t’ break the happy bonds
O’ comradeship, an’ move away.

It’s hard t’ pack up all yer things
An’ leave a cozy home behind–
The place where joys have come t’ you,
Where neighbors all have been so kind.

An’ when, at last, yer dearest pal
Is tryin’ hard t’ make a bluff
At bein’ brave, an’ breaks right down,
It’s kinda tough — it’s kinda tough!

But say!  It’s great t’ find new friends
Just waitin’ fer a chance t’ show
How glad they are t’ have you come
An’ live with ’em!  It’s great t’ know

That folks ‘re jus’ about the same
No matter where you chance t’ roam,
An’ if you let ’em have their way
You’ll soon be feelin’ right at home.

So, it’s a long farewell old friends, old friends;
May God be mighty good t’ you!
Across the miles an’ down the years
You’ll find my friendship always true.

An’ now I turn with eager heart
T’ meet whatever life extends —
T’ greet the folks that welcome me,
An’ try t’ make ’em all my friends!

-Lawrence Hawthorne