A Beautiful Prayer (© 2008 “Mrs. Overall” – Ann Emmit)

I asked God to take away my habit.
God said “No”. “It is not for me to take it away, but for you to give it up”.

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said “No”. “His spirit is whole, his body is 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 learned”.

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 God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said “No”. “I will give you life, so that you may enjoy all things”.

I asked God to help me love others as much as He loves me.
God said “Aaah, finally you have the idea”.

(From Lyn, Ann’s American friend)