I asked God for strength but he made me weak,
so that I would become modest and humble.
I asked for his help in order to accomplish great deeds,
but he made me timid, so that I would accomplish good deeds.
I asked for wealth and goods,
to become happy and to be carefree;
he made me poor, so I would become wise and independent and free.
I asked for all things of this world, so that I could enjoy life.
But he gave me life,
so I would rejoice - in the things of the world.
I received none of the things I asked for,
but all the things that were good for me.
My prayers were answered in contrary to what I had asked;
amongst all people I am a blessed man.

Unknown Soldier