Answered Prayer

I asked God for strength, that I might achieve,
   I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey...
I asked for health, that I might do greater things,
   I was given infirmity, that I might do better things...
I asked for riches, that I might be happy,
   I was given poverty, that I might be wise...
I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men,
   I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God...
I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life,
   I was given life, that I might enjoy all things...
I got nothing that I asked for -
   but everything I had hoped for;
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am among all men most richly blessed...

- Unknown Confederate Soldier