A Soldier’s Prayer

Written by an anonymous confederate soldier during the civil war of the United States

I asked God 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 that I had hoped for,

Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.

I am, among all men, most richly blessed