I Asked God

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 byproduct 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, "Ahh, finally you have the idea."