I especially like this because it emphasizes the fact that prayer is supposed to be a two way form of communication. We can't just rattle off a gift list to God. We have to listen for the answers...

A Beautiful Prayer...

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

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, "No.
Her spirit was whole,
her body was 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 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, "..Ahhhh, finally you
have the idea."

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