I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
And God said, "No."
He said her spirit was whole, but
her body was only temporary.

I asked God to grant me patience.
And God said, "No."
He said patience is a by-product of tribulations.
It isn't granted, but it is earned.

I asked God to give me happiness.
And God said, "No."
He said he gives me blessings,
happiness is up to me.

I asked God to spare me pain.
And God said, "No."
He said suffering draws you apart
from worldly cares
to bring you closer to me.

I asked God to make my spirit grow.
And God said, "No."
He said I must grow on my own.
But He will prune me to make me fruitful.

I asked for all things that I might enjoy life.
And God said,
"No." He said I will give you life that
you may enjoy all things.

I asked God to help me LOVE others,
as much as HE loves me.
And God said,
Ah, FINALLY, you have the idea.