This is the last essay written by a Chinese High School student in Xi’An that I will share. It was my personal favorite for both writing style and content. There is true wisdom within this prayer.

I asked God to take away my habit. God said, “No.
It is not for Me to take away, but for you to give up.”
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, “No.
His spirit is whole, his body is only temporary.”
I asked God to grant me patience. God said, “No.
Patience is a byproduct of tribulations; it isn’t granted, it is learned.”
I asked God to give me happiness. God said, “No.
I give you blessings. Happiness is up to you.”

I asked God to spare my pain. God said,”No.
Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.”
I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said, “No.
You must grow on your own! I will prune you to make you fruitful.”
I asked God for all things, that I might enjoy life. God said, “No.
I will give you life, so that you may enjoy all things.”
I asked God to help me LOVE others, as much as He loves me.
God said, “Ahh…finally you have the idea.”

THIS DAY IS YOURS; DON’T THROW IT AWAY.