It may be six or seven years,
or days, just two or three.
But will you, until I call him back,
take care of him for me?
He'll bring his charm to gladden you,
and shall his stay be brief,
you'll have his loving 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 searched the wide world over
for families that would do.
And from the depths of crowded life,
I have selected you.
Please give him all your love.
And don't think the labor vain.
Don't hate me when I come to call
to take him home again.
Unknowingly, I replied,
"Dear Lord, it shall be done."
For all the joys this child shall bring,
the risk of grief I'll run.
I'll shelter him with tenderness.
I'll love him while I may.
And in my heart, the happiness
he brought to me shall stay.
But should the angels call for him
much sooner than I've planned,
I'll brave the bitter grief that comes
and try to understand.