A Talk With God

I asked God to take away my pain.  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, her spirit was whole, her body was 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 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 asked God to help me LOVE others, as much as He loves me.  God said...Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.