I asked God to take away my habit.  God said, "No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up."

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.  God said, "No. His spirit is whole, his body is only temporary."

I asked God to grant me patience.  God said, "No. Patience is a byproduct of tribulations; it isn't  granted, it is learned."

I asked God to give me happiness.  God said, "No. I give you blessings; Happiness is up to you."

I asked God to spare me pain.  God said, "No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me."

I asked God to make my spirit grow.  God said, "No. You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make You fruitful."

I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.  God said, "No. I will give you life, so that you may enjoy all things."

I asked God to help me LOVE others, as much as He loves me.  God said..."Ahhhh, finally you have the idea."