Lend Me a Pup

I will lend to you for awhile a puppy, God said,
For you to love her while she lives 
and to mourn for her when she is gone.
Maybe for 12 or 16 years, or maybe for 2 or 3
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 fold that crowd life’s land
I have chosen you.
Now will you give her 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 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.