This is my revision of the anonymous, inspirational poem "Answered Prayer," which is attributed to an unknown Confederate soldier.
I asked God for strength
that I might achieve.
He made me weak
that I might learn humbly to obey.
I asked God for health
that I might do greater things.
He gave me infirmity
that I might do better things.
I asked God for riches
that I might be happy.
He gave me poverty
that I might be wise.
I asked God for power
that I might have the praise of men.
He gave me weakness
that I might feel the need of God.
I asked God for all things
that I might enjoy life.
He gave me life
that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing that I asked God for --
but everything I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself,
God answered my unspoken prayers.
I am among all men most richly blessed.
