A loan from God

I ran across this poem on FaceBook yesterday.  I thought it was so beautiful, and especially meaningful in light of our loss of our beautiful Ty...perhaps it will help others who have lost a beloved dog, or other furry friend.

I wish I knew who the author was.  I do not.

A loan from God

God promised at the birth of time,

a special friend to give.

His time on earth is short, he said,

so love him while he lives.

It may be six or seven years,

or twelve or then sixteen.

But will you, 'til I call him back,

take care of him for me?

A wagging tail and cold wet nose,

and silken velvet ears.

A heart as big as all outdoors,

to love you through the years.

His puppy ways will gladden you,

his antics bring a smile.

As guardian or friend, he will,

be loyal all the while.

He'll bring his charms and grace your life,

and though his stay be brief.

When he's gone, the memories,

are solace for your grief.

I cannot promise he will stay,

since all from earth return.

But lessons only a dog can teach,

I want you each to learn.

Whatever love you give to him,

returns in triple measure.

Follow his lead and gain a life,

brim full of simple pleasure.

Enjoy each day, as it comes,

allow your heart to guide.

Be loyal and steadfast in love,

as the dog there by your side.

Now, will you give him all your love,

nor think the labor vain,

nor hate me when I come to call,

to take him back again?

I fancy each of us would say,

"dear Lord, thy will be done.

For all the joy this dog shall bring,

the risk of grief we'll run."

"We'll shelter him with tenderness,

we'll love him while we may.

And for the happiness we've known,

forever grateful stay."

"But shall the angels call for him,

much sooner than we've planned,

we'll brave the bitter grief that comes,

and try to understand."

-- Unknown