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 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.