Reflection on 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 great things; 
I was given sickness, 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 to have the praise of others; 
I was given weakness, to feel the need for God. 

I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life; 
I was given life, that I might enjoy all things. 

I receive nothing I asked for, but everything I hoped for. 
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayer was answered; 
I am, among all people, most richly blessed.

fr everett corvera, corvera everett, everet corvera