"Lend Me a Pup"

I will lend to you for awhile a pup, God said,

For you to love her while she lives

and to mourn for her when she is gone.

Maybe for twelve or fourteen years,

or maybe for two or three

But will you, till I call her back

take care of her for me?

She'll bring her charms to gladden you

and (should her stay be brief)

you'll always have her memories

as solace for your grief.

I cannot promise that she will stay,

since all from earth return,

But there are lessons taught below

I want this pup to learn.

I've looked the whole world over

in search of teachers true

And from the folk that crowd life's land

I have chosen you.

Now will you give her all your love

Nor think the labour vain

Nor hate me when I come to take my pup back again.

I fancied that I heard them say

"Dear Lord Thy Will Be Done,"

For all the joys this pup will bring,

the risk of grief you'll run.

Will you shelter her with tenderness

Will you love her while you may

And for the happiness you'll know

forever grateful stay.

But should I call her back

much sooner than you've planned

Please brave the bitter grief that comes

and try to understand.

If, by your love, you've managed my wishes to achieve,

In memory of her that you've loved,

cherish every moment with your faithful bundle,

and know she loved you too.

"author unknown"