A Soldier's Prayer

(Written by an anonymous confederate soldier during the American World War)

 

I asked God for strength, that i might achieve,

I was made weak, that I might learn to humbly obey.

 

I asked for health, that I might do greater things,

I was given infirmity, that I might do better 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, taht I might 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 got nothing that I hoped for-- but everything that I had hoped for,

Almost despite myfelt, my unspoken prayers were answered.

 

I am, among all men, most richly blessed!