I asked God to take away my habit.

            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.

            His spirit is whole, his body is only temporary."

            I asked God to grant me patience.

            God said:  "No.

            Patience is a byproduct 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 God 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."