Sleep softly, little one. You and Rush will be together again.....
...
I will send down to you for awhile, a kitty-cat, God said.
For you to love her while she lives, and mourn her when she’s dead.
Maybe for twelve or fourteen years, or maybe two or three.
But will you, ‘till I call her back, take care of her for me?
She’ll bring her charms to gladden you and, should her stay be brief
You’ll always have her memories as solace for your grief.
I cannot promise she will stay, since all from earth return.
But there are lessons taught below I want this kitten to learn.
I’ve looked the whole world over, in search of teachers true.
And from the folk that crowd earth’s land, I have chosen you.
Now will you give her all your love, nor think the labor vain?
Nor scourn me when I come to take my kitten home again?
I fancied that I heard them say ‘Dear Lord Thy Will Be Done’
For all the joys this kitten brings the risk of grief we’ll run.
We’ll shelter her with tenderness, we’ll love her while we may.
And for the happiness we’ve known, forever grateful stay.
But should you call her back again much sooner than we planned,
We’ll brave the bitter grief that comes, and try to understand.
If, by our love we’ve managed your wishes to achieve,
Then in memory of whom we loved, please help us while we grieve.
When our cherished kitty departs this world of strife,
Please send yet another needing soul for us to love for all his life.
(Unknown author)
Ok, seriously. Shouldn’t that poem come with a “don’t wear mascara while reading” warning???