most richly blessed

I asked God for strength that I may achieve,
I was made weak to humbly obey.

I asked God for health that I may do great things,
I was given infirmity that I may do better things.

I asked for riches that I might be happy,
I was given poverty that I may be wise.

I asked for power that I may have the praise of men,
I was given weakness that I may feel the need of God.

I asked for all things, that I may enjoy life,
I was given life, that I may 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, most richly blessed.

-- by unknown (USA) Civil War soldier --