This famous poem by Edgar Albert Guest (1881–1959) has been bringing comfort to grief-stricken parents for years. Guest himself suffered the loss of two of his children. To lose a child is one of life’s most awful experiences. Focusing on the gift of your few years together can bring great comfort.

A Child Loaned

“I’ll lend you for a little time,

a child of Mine,” He said.

“For you to love him 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 charms to gladden you,

and should his stay be brief,

you’ll have his lively 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 wide world over

in My 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,

not think the labor vain,

nor hate Me when I come to call

and take him back again?”

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 planned,

we’ll brave the bitter grief that comes

and try to understand.