Ask God

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
and 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 will give you life so
that you might enjoy all things.

I asked God to help me LOVE others,
as much as He loves me.
God said...Ahhhh,
finally you have the idea.

Author Unknown

Dear God,

Thank you for loving us.
Thank you for leading us.
Thank you for teaching us.
Thank you for life...
that we may live lives that make you smile.

Thank you for all these things.

Amen