This beautiful “Reflection on Prayer” is found in a little book:
“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 great things. I was given illness 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 people’s praise; I was given weakness that 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 I asked for; but everything I hoped for. Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayer was answered. I am, among all people, most richly blessed.”