The Loan

The Loan
Author Unknown

"I'll lend to you for a little time,
A child of mine," God said,

"For you to love the while she lives

And mourn for when she's dead.

It may be ten or eleven years

Or only two or three,

But will you 'til 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 have these precious memories

As solace for your grief.

I cannot promise she will stay

Since all from earth return.

But there are lessons taught down there

I want this pup to learn.

I've looked this world over,

In my search for teachers true

And in the crowds that throng life's land,

I have selected you.

Now will you give her all your love

Not think the labor vain,

Nor hate me when I come to call

To take her back again?"

It seems to me I heard them say,

"Dear Lord, thy will be done.

For all the joy that she shall bring,

The risk of grief we'll run.

We'll shelter her with tenderness,

We'll love her while we may,

And for the happiness we've known

Forever grateful stay.

And should the angels call for her

Much sooner than we've planned,

We'll brave the bitter grief that comes

And try to understand."