And God Said "No."

I asked God to take away my pride. And God said "No."
He said it was not for him to take away, but for me to give it up.

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. And God said "No."
He said her spirit was whole, 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, 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 and
brings 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 God 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 ask God to help me LOVE others, as much as he loves me.
And God said, "Ah, finally you have the idea."

- Author Unknown