Little Hawk's post about the gift of life has reminded me of this, which is attributed to "An Unknown Soldier" and which I first read quoted by Rick Wakeman in his autobiography:

I asked 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 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.

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With Love,
- jeanie