Life, 1919-12-25 · page 7 of 37
Life — December 25, 1919 — page 7: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This page commemorates the passing year with "Vale!" (Latin for "farewell"). The decorative header features an ornate clock showing 1919-1920, surrounded by allegorical figures representing the year's departures and new beginnings. The poem by Laura Simmons thanks departing friends and experiences—"the gracious hearts, the helpful hand"—while acknowledging loss and spiritual bonds that "cannot forget." The illustration below depicts what appears to be **Old Year personified as a departing figure** (left, in clouds) bidding farewell to **New Year/coming year** (right, with torch and crescent moon). Child-like figures welcome the newcomer with the caption "You're welcome to it, kiddo! I've had mine!" This reflects post-WWI disillusionment—the outgoing 1919 was marked by war's aftermath, suggesting the new year holds uncertain prospects.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
Dear Neenren — (An Old Year Song) Fes Old Year friends, so leal, so stanch and kind. Thanks for the cheer of them, that held no sting— Lord, in these closing days, my thanks to Thee! The sweet, strong faith, that never failed me yet; Thanks for the gracious heart, the helpful hand— Thanks for the pity and the comforting— The fect that trod Gethsemane with me! Those mystic bonds the soul cannot forget! Lord, that these ministries might still be mine— Fraught with the grateful warmth of olden wine! Laura Simmons. “YOU'kE WELCOME To IT, Kippol i've HAD MINE!”