I'll lend too you for a little time... a child of mine He said. For you to love while he lives and mourn for when he's dead. It may be six or seven years... or twenty-two or three. 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 have his lovely memories... as solace for your grief. I cannot promise he will stay... since all from earth return. But there are lessons taught down there I want this child to learn. I've looked this wide world over... in my search for teachers true; And from the throngs that crowd life's lanes... I have selected you. Now will you give him all your love...nor think the labor vain? Nor hate me when I came to call... to take him back again? I fancied that I heard them say..."Dear Lord, Thy will be done, For all the joy Thy child shall bring... the risk of grief we'll be. We'll shelter him with tenderness... We'll love him while we may. But should the angels call for him... much sooner than we'd planned. We'll beave the bitter grief that comes... and try to understand!Janet Mollett
