Ping MaryL

This is the poem I chose for the 8 year old, Her mom is going to tell it to
in a storey form rather than have her read it. I changed the kitty to a
Doggie but the message is wonderful. Thank you.

I Loaned You a Doggie

I will lend to you for a while a Doggie, God said.
For you to love while she lives, and mourn when she's dead.

Maybe for twelve or fourteen years, or maybe two or three.
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 she will stay, since all from earth return.
But there are lessons taught below I want this Doggie to learn.

I've looked the whole world over in search of teachers true, And from the
folk that crowds 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 Doggie home again?

And my heart replied, "My Lord, Thy Will Be Done."
For all the joys this Doggie brings, the risk of grief I'll run.

We'll shelter her with tenderness, we'll love her while we may.
And for the happiness that we've known, forever grateful stay.

But should you call her back much sooner than we planned, We'll brave the
bitter grief that comes, and try to understand.

If by our love we've managed your wishes to achieve, in memory of her sweet
sweet love, please help us while we grieve.

When our cherished Doggie departs this world of strife, Please send yet
another needing soul for us to love all her life.

Author Unknown