you know-it breaks my heart everytime i lose one- sometimes you will never know why- and they steal a bit of your heart and change you forever- one of my first chickens was a BO named sugar- she was a pet an a sweetheart- came in one day and she was dead in the nestbox- no warning at all- just remember your girl knew she was loved- here is a poem for you- i have found alot of comfort in it and feel free to pass it on-
Lend Me A Bird
"I will lend to you for a while a bird" God said, for you
to love him while he lives and mourn for him when he's 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'll bring his charms to gladden you and should him stay be brief,
you'll always have him memories as solace for your grief.
I cannot promise that he'll stay since all from earth return,
but there are lessons taught below, I want this bird to learn.
I've looked the whole world over in search of teachers true,
and from the folds that crowded life's land I have chosen you.
Now will you give him all your love; not think the labor vain;
nor hate me when I come to take my lovely bird again?
I fancied that I heard them say, "Dear Lord, thy will be done,
for all the joys this bird will bring, the risk of grief we'll run."
Will you shelter him with tenderness? Will you love him while you may?
And for the happiness you will know, forever grateful stay?
But should I call him back much sooner than you've planned;
please brave the bitter grief that comes and try to understand.
If by your love you've managed my wishes to achieve,
in memory of him you've loved; be thankful; do not grieve
Cherish every moment of your feathered charge. he filled your home
with song of joy
for time he was alive. Let not him passing take from you those
memories to enjoy
"I will lend to you a Bird" God said and teach you all you have to do
And when I call him back to heaven, you will know he loved you too
