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 hoped for.

Almost despite myself,
My unspoken prayers were answered.

I am, among all men,
most richly blessed!

~ Attributed to an Unknown Confederate Soldier ~