Reply #40: a poem, "Lend Me a Bird" [View All]

Lend Me A Bird

"I will lend to you for awhile,
a bird", God said.
For you to love him while he lives
and to mourn for him when he is dead.
Maybe for twelve or fourteen years,
or maybe for 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 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 bird to learn.

I've looked the whole world over
in search of teachers true.
And from the folks that crowd life's land,
I have chosen you.
Now will you give him all your love;
nor think the labour vain;
Nor hate me when I come to take
my lovely bird again?

I fancied that I heard them say,
For all the joys this bird 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 you've loved;
be thankful; do not grieve.

Cherish every moment of your feathered charge.
He filled your home with songs of joy,
the time he was alive. Let not his passing
take from you those memories to enjoy.
"I will lend to you, a Bird", God said,
and teach you all you have to do.
And when I call him back to heaven,
you will know he loved you too.

Author Unknown