I asked God to take away my pain. God said, "No, It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up". I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, "No, her spirit was whole, her body was only temporary". I asked God to grant me patience. God said, "No, patience is a by-product of tribulations; it isn't granted, it is earned". I asked God to give me happiness. God said, "No, I give you blessings. Happiness is up to you". I asked God to spare me pain. God said, "No, suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me". I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said, "No, you must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful". I asked for all things that I might enjoy life. God said, "No, I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things". I ask God to help me love others, as much as he loves me. God said, "... Ahhhh, finally you have the idea".
