NEO Anderson Nairn

NEO taught us a love we never knew possible between bird and human. We didn’t know it was possible for a bird to be so trusting and loving to humans. We now understand the real meaning of “Lovebird.” Thank you NEO. You will forever be our baby girl and princess buttercup.

“I will lend to you for a while, a bird”, God said. For you to love her while she lives and to mourn for her when she is dead. Maybe for twelve or fourteen years, or maybe for 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 that she will 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 folks that crowd life’s land, I have chosen you. Now will you give her all your love, nor 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 her with tenderness? Will you love her while you may? And for the happiness you’ll know forever, grateful stay? But should I call her 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 her you’ve loved; be thankful; do not grieve. Cherish every moment of your feathered charge. She filled your home with songs of joy the time she was alive. Let not her passing take from you those memories, let them thrive. “I will lend to you, a Bird”, God said, and teach you all you have to do. And when I call her back to heaven, you will know she loved you too.

(Author Unknown)