I'll lend you for a little while
My grandest foal, He said.
For you to love while he's alive
And morn for when he is dead.
It may be one or twenty years.
Or days or months you see.
But, will you, till I take him back
Take care of him for me?
He'll bring his charms to gladden you,
And should his stay be brief
You'll have treasured memories
As solace for your grief.
I cannot promise he will stay,
Since all from earth return.
But, there are lessons taught on earth
I want this foal to learn.
I've looked the wide world over
In my search for teachers true.
And from the throngs that crowd life's lanes
With trust I've selected you.
Now will you give him your total love?
Nor think the labor vain,
Nor hate me when I come
To take him back again?
I know you'll give him tenderness
And love will bloom each day.
And for the happiness you've known
Forever grateful stay.
But should I come and call for him
Much sooner then you'd planned
You'll brave the bitter grief that comes
And someday you'll understand.
-unknown
