I asked God

I asked God for strength that I might achieve;
I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey.

I asked for health, that I might do greater things;
I was given infirmity, that I might do better things.

I asked for riches, that I might be happy;
I was given poverty, that I might be free...

I asked God for power, that I might have praise from men;
I was given weakness, that I might feel the need for God.

I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life;
I was given life, that I might enjoy all things.

I got nothing I asked for, but everything that I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am among all men the most richly blessed.

Anonymous