Redrhodie, I'm so sorry about Julio. You and he were so blessed to be able to spend 17 years together. I know this is a very painful period - cry your tears, cherish your memories and know Julio will always be with you for he is in your heart. Take care of yourself!


Lend Me a Kitten

I will lend to you for a while a kitten, God said.
For you to love while he lives, and mourn when he is dead.
Maybe for twelve or fourteen years, or maybe two or three.
But will you, 'til I call him back, take care of him for me?

He will bring you his charms to gladden you and, should his
stay be brief, you will always have his memories as solace for your grief.

I cannot promise he will stay, since all from earth return.
But there are lessons taught below I want this kitten to learn.

I have looked the whole world over in search of teacher's true.
And from the folk that crowd life's land, I have chosen you.

Now will you give him all your love, nor think the labor vain?
Nor hate me when I come to take my kitten home again?

My heart replied, "My Lord, Thy Will Be Done"
For all the joys this kitten brings the risk of grief I will run.
We will shelter him with tenderness, we will love him while we may
And for the happiness we have known, forever grateful stay.

But should you call him back much sooner than we planned.
We will brave the bitter grief that comes, and try to understand.
If, by our love we have managed your wishes to achieve,
Then in memory of him who we loved, please help us while we grieve.

When our cherished kitten departs this world of strife,
Please send yet another needing soul for us to love all their life.

- Author Unknown -
Adapted from 'Thy Will Be Done' by Edgar Guest