I asked God to take away my pride.
God said "No.
It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up."
I asked God to make the 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 how you choose to receive them."
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."
Finally, I asked God to help me love others, in as much as He loves me.
God said "Ahhhh, so you've discovered what is really important?"