You will Cry

Lend Me a Cat

I will lend to you for awhile
a Kitten, God said,
For you to love her while she lives
and to mourn for her when she is gone.
Maybe for twelve or fourteen years,
or maybe for 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 his stay be brief)
you'll always have her memories
as solace for your grief .
I cannot promise that she will stay,
since all from earth return,

But there are lessons taught below
I want this cat 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 her all your love
Nor think the labour 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 cat will bring,
the risk of grief you'll run.

Will you shelter her with tenderness
Will you love her while you may
And for the happiness you'll know forever grateful stay.

But should I call her 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 her that you've loved,

cherish every moment with your faithful bundle,
and know she loved you too.