I once read an unattributed piece that touched me just right ... right in the feels.

Earthbound Angels

_Author Unknown

"Occasionally, we are graced with the presence of an earth bound Angel. They are unable to stay with us for long, but while they do, they bring unprecedented joy and happiness to all they touch. While they are here, we bask in their goodness and marvel at their contribution to the world. When they leave, we are left with the devastation that comes with losing such a wonderful being. But we must remember, the earth bound angels are not ours to keep. They are ours to enjoy, learn from and behold until they return home." Unknown Author

Earthbound Angels

(Verse 1)

Occasionally, we're graced from above,

With an earthbound angel, sent with love.

They can't linger long in this earthly place,

But while they're here, they light up every face.

(Chorus)

Oh, they bring joy, unprecedented and true,

Happiness flows to all they touch, me and you.

We bask in their goodness, marvel at their light,

Earthbound angels, shining so bright.

But they're not ours to keep, no, not forever,

Ours to enjoy, learn from, behold together,

Until they return home, to the Father's embrace,

Earthbound angels, gone without a trace.

(Verse 2)

In their presence, we feel heaven's sweet call,

Contributions that lift us, one and all.

When they depart, oh, the heartache we bear,

Devastation lingers in the empty air.

(Chorus)

Oh, they bring joy, unprecedented and true,

Happiness flows to all they touch, me and you.

We bask in their goodness, marvel at their light,

Earthbound angels, shining so bright.

But they're not ours to keep, no, not forever,

Ours to enjoy, learn from, behold together,

Until they return home, to the Father's embrace,

Earthbound angels, gone without a trace.

(Bridge)

Remember, dear hearts, in the midst of our pain,

Their time was a gift, like a gentle rain.

We learned from their grace, we beheld their fire,

Now they're soaring high, in the heavenly choir.

(Final Chorus)

Oh, they bring joy, unprecedented and true,

Happiness flows, forever in view.

We bask in their goodness, even now from afar,

Earthbound angels, our guiding star.

They're not ours to keep, but their love remains,

Ours to cherish through joy and through pains,

Until we return home, to that glorious place,

With our earthbound angels, face to face.