For Sam.....RIP

''I'll lend you for a little time a dog 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 maybe more than these,

but will you till I call him back take care of him for me ?

He'll bring his charm to gladden you, and should his stay be brief

you will have his memories as solace for your grief.

I cannot promise he will stay, since all from earth return,

but there are lessons taught down there that I want Sam to learn.

I've looked the wide world over in my search for teachers true,

and from the throngs that crown life's lanes I have selected you.

Now when you give him all your love, don't think it's all in vain,

or hate me when I come to call to take him back again ?

I fancy that I heard you say 'Dear Lord thy will be done'

for all the joy that Sam shall bring, and the risks that we might run.

We'll shelter him with tenderness and love him while we may,

and for the happiness we'll know, forever grateful stay.

And when the angels call for him we'll brave the bitter grief,

but know that deep within our hearts he will only feel relief.