'Childhood is but for a day'

“While they are at your side, love these little ones to the uttermost.
Forget yourself.
Serve them; care for them;
lavish all your tenderness on them.
Value your good fortune while it is with you, 
and let nothing of the sweetness of their babyhood go unprized.
Not for long will you keep the happiness that now lies within your reach.
You will not always walk in the sunshine 
with a little warm, soft hand nestling in each of yours, 
 nor hear little feet pattering beside you, 
and eager baby voices questioning and prattling of a thousand things with ceaseless excitement. 
Not always will you see that trusting face upturned to yours, 
feel those little arms about your neck, 
and those tender lips pressed upon your cheek, 
nor will you have that tiny form to kneel beside you, 
and murmur baby prayers in your ear.  
Love them and win their love, 
and shower on them all the treasures of your heart. 
Fill up their days with happiness, 
and share with them their mirth and innocent delights.
Childhood is but for a day.
Ere you are aware it will be gone with all its gifts forever.”

~ George Townshend (1876 – 1957)