I asked God to take away my pride; 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 is 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!"