LEND ME A PUP. I will lend Obi to you for awhile, God said, For you to love her while she lives , and to mourn for her when she is gone. Maybe for 12 or 15 years, or maybe for 2 or 3, But will you, till I call Obi back, take care of her for me ? Obi’ll bring her charms to gladden you and, 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 Obi to learn. I’ve looked the whole world over, in search of teachers true, And from the fold that crowd life’s land, I have chosen you. Now will you give Obi all your love, Nor think the labor vain, nor hate me when I come to take, my pup back again ? I fancied that I heard them say, “Dear Lord, They Will Be Done,” For all the joys this pup 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 Obi loved you too. ~Author Unknown