The Blessing in No 

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

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, "No.
Her spirit was whole. Her body was only temporary."

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

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 grow." 

I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, "No.
I 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, "Ahhh, finally you have the idea."