Lend me a kitten

I will lend to you for a while
a kitten, God said,
for you to love himwhile he lives
and to mourn for him when he is gone.
Maybe for twelve or fourteen years,
or maybe for two or three,
but will you, till I call himback
take care of him for me?

He'll bring his charms to gladden you
and (should his stay be brief)
you'll always have his memories
as solace for your grief.
I cannot promise that he will stay,
since all from earth return.
But there are lessons taught below
I want this kitten to learn.

I've looked the whole world over
in search of teachers true,
and from the folk that crowd life's land
I have chosen you.
Now will you give him all your love?
Nor think the labor vain.
Nor hate me when I come to take my kitten back again.

I fancied that I heard them say
"Dear Lord Thy Will Be Done,"
for all the joys this kitten will bring,
the risk of grief you'll run.
Will you shelter him with tenderness?
Will you love him while you may?
And for the happiness you'll know forever-grateful stay.

But should I call him 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 him that you've loved,
cherish every moment with your faithful bundle,
and know he loved you too.


Author Unknown