A Soldier's Prayer       

Found in the pocket of a dead Confederate soldier:

I asked God for strength, that I might achieve;

   I was made weak, that I might learn to humbly 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 I asked for, but everything I hoped for.

Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered. 

I am, among all men, most richly blessed. 

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