A creed for those who have suffered
I asked God for strength, that I might achieve,
I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey
I asked God 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.