Another year has passed
And we have all grown a bit older.
The summers seem much hotter
And the winters definitely much colder.

I've racked my brain for happy thoughts
To put into this rhyme.
But it seems all of our shared misery and pain
Are the things that keep coming to mind.

There was a time not so long ago
That our life was truly a blast.
Now we fully understand the phrase:
"Living in the past."

We use to go jogging and biking,
Or just run around the block.
Now we go to doctors and hospitals
And end up getting even deeper in hock.

We used to have hangovers from parties
That got a little out of hand
Forget about dancing now
As we can barely stand.

We used to travel often
Places near and far
Now we are lucky
If we can even drive a car.

We used to go to nightclubs
And down more than a few
Now we stay at home at night
On the Internet searching for a clue.

And that my friends is what our life has become
And now my tale is told
But fuck all that if you're still here
If I may be so bold

Be thankful for the friends you have gained
Rather than dwelling on the past.
Be thankful that things are not far worse
No matter how long this may last.

Your life may never be the same again
And this my friends is a fact.
But you have gained far more than you've lost
So try to remember that.

Bad things happen to good people
Every day in this life we lead.
And there is nothing wrong with reaching out
In your darkest hour of need.

But we have all survived the past year
Only because people here truly care.
Without the support of the other members
This would truly be too much for one to bear.

So rather than dwelling on how our lives used to be
And yearning for the past.
Let us celebrate this New Year
Knowing that THIS TOO SHALL PASS.

A Happy and Blessed New Year to the members of the crew and
passengers alike from the Captain.

Capt' dave