Saturday, May 22, 2010

We have received hundreds of notes, flowers, posts, drop-ins, etc. in the past few days. We are so thankful for each individual's comfort to us during our grief. I was up early this morning reading posts on our blog and found a poem I particularly liked from a colleague in Sydney, Australia (whom I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting through IPREX).

I'll Lend You A Child- by Edgar Guest

"I'll lend you for a little time a child of mine," He said.
For you to love - while he lives
And mourn for when he's dead.

It may be six or seven years
Or twenty-two or three,
But will you, till I call him back,
Take care of him for Me?

He'll bring his smiles to gladden you,
And should this stay be brief
You'll have his lovely memories as solace for your grief.

I cannot promise he will stay,
Since all from earth return,
But there are lessons taught down there
I want this child to learn.

I've looked this world over
In search for teachers true,
And from the throngs that crowd
Life's lanes, I have selected you.

Now will you give him all your love,
Nor count the labor vain,
Nor hate Me when I come to call to
Take him back again?"

I fancied that I heard then say,
"Dear Lord, Thy will be done,
For all the joy Thy child 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 should the angels call for him
Much sooner than we've planned,
We'll brave the bitter grief that comes
And try to understand."

6 comments:

John and Katie Nash said...

Such strong and powerful words....we wish we could be with you in person in your time of grief but know that everyday you are all in our thoughts, prayers and hearts. Love John and Katie

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful poem. May your days become easier and your memories sweeter.
Because of him, Melanie Robson

KRGP said...

Lee Anne -- Edgar Guest is our ancestor. Makes it even more special.

Kim Neese said...

What a Beautiful, powerful and heart felt poem. I hope it brought you some comfort. The service for Isaiah was magnificent. It was so touching. Thinking of you daily. Take good care,
Kim Neese

Anonymous said...

Just stopping in to let you know I'm thinking of you both and remembering you throughout the day in many whispered prayers.

Lauren Masters said...

This was a nice poem. Each of you are in my thoughts and prayers everyday. I know you have a pool but every Friday is a pool party at Bob & Julie's if you want to get out of the house. I'm sure dad would love to treat you all to a good meal too. Don't you miss his barbeque chicken and baked beans? Anytime you all want to get together, we will drop everything to come hang out.