I asked . . .

I asked G-d to take away my bad habits.

G-d said No!  It is not for me to take them away, but for you to give them up.

I asked G-d to make my handicapped child whole.

G-d said No!  His spirit is whole, his body is only temporary.

I asked G-d to grant me patience.

G-d said No! Patience is a by-product of tribulations; it isn't granted, it's learned.

I asked G-d to give me happiness.

G-d said No!  I give you blessings; happiness is up to you.

I asked G-d to spare me pain.

G-d said No!  Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.

I asked G-d to make my spirit grow.

G-d said No!  You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.

I asked G-d for all things, that I might enjoy life.

G-d said No!  I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things.

I asked G-d to help me LOVE others, as much as He loves me.

G-d said, Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.

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