Lend me a pup

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

For you to love him while he lives

and to mourn for him when he is gone.

Maybe for 12 or 14 years, or maybe for 2 or 3

But will you, till I call him back

take care of him for me?

He’ll bring his charms to gladden you and

(should his stay be brief)

you’ll always have his memories

as solace for your grief.

I cannot promise that he 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 fold that crowd life’s land

I have chosen you.

Now will you give him all your love

Nor think the labor vain,

nor hate me when I come to take

my pup back again?

I fancied that I heard them say,

“Dear Lord, They Will Be Done,”

For all the joys this pup will bring

the risk of grief you’ll run.

Will you shelter him with tenderness,

Will you love him while you may?

And for the happiness you’ll know

forever grateful stay?

But should I call him 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 him that you’ve loved,

cherish every moment with your faithful bundle,

and know he loved you too.

~Author Unknown