I asked God to take away my pain.
God said, "No. It is not for Me to take away, but for you to give up."

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, "No. Her spirit is whole. Her 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 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 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!"