A Quick Detour

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 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 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!"

an excerpt