And God Said....No

I asked God to take away my pride. And God said "No."
He said, "It is not for Me to take it away, but for you to give it up."

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. And God said "No."
He said, "Her spirit is whole, her body is only temporary."

I asked God to grant me patience. And God said "No."
He said, "Patience is a by-product of tribulations. It isn't granted, it is earned."

I asked God to give me happiness. And God said "No."
He said, "I will give you blessings, happiness is up to you."

I asked God to spare me pain. And God said "No."
He said, "Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares, and brings you closer to Me."

I asked God to make my spirit grow. And God said "No."
He said, "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. And God said "No."
He said, "I will give you life, that you may enjoy all things."

I ask God to help me LOVE others, as much as He loves me.
And God said, "Ah, My child, finally you have the idea."