Loss Of A Child

I'll lend you for a little while
This child of mine" God said -
For you to love for while he lives
and mourn for when he's dead.

It may be six or seven years
or forty 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 nicest memories
as solace for his grief.

I cannot promise he will stay,
since all from earth return
but, there are lessons down there,
I want this child to learn.


I've looked the wide world over
in search of teachers true,
and from the throngs that crowds
life's lane. I've selected you

Now, will you give him all your love,
and not take the labor vein, nor
hate me when I come to call to take
him back again.


I fancied that I heard her say,
"Dear Lord Thy Will Be Done"
for all the joys thy child will bring
the risk of grief I'll run.

I'll shelter him with tenderness,
and love him while I may,
and for the happiness I've known
forever grateful stay.

But, should thy Angels call for him
much sooner than I planned,
I'll brave the grief that comes
and try to understand.