Midweek Meditation: "Prayer of a Civil War Soldier"

I asked for strength that I might achieve;
        I was made weak that I might 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 have received nothing I asked for, all that I hoped for.
        My prayer is answered.

(Prayer of an unknown civil war veteran)