My grandest doe, He said.
For you to love while she's alive
And mourn for when she's dead.
It may be one or fifteen years,
Or days or months, you see.
But, will you, till I take her back
Take care of her for me?
She'll bring her charms to gladden you,
And should her stay be brief
You'll have those treasured memories
As solace for your grief.
I cannot promise she will stay,
Since all from earth return.
But there are lessons taught on earth
I want this doe to learn.
I've looked the wide world over
In my search for teachers true.
And from the throngs that crowd life's lanes
With trust I selected you.
Now will you give her your total love?
Nor think the labor vain,
Nor hate Me when I come
To take her back again?
I know you'll give her tenderness
And love will bloom each day.
And for the happiness you've known
Forever grateful stay.
But should I come and call for her
Much sooner than you'd planned
You'll brave the bitter grief that comes
And someday understand.
For though I'll call her home to Me
This promise to you I do make
For all the love and care you gave
She'll wait for you, at Heaven's Gate.