Conversation with God

* I asked God to take away my pain.
* God said, No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.
* I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
* God said, No. Her spirit was whole, her body was only temporary.
* I asked God to grant me patience.
* God said, No.
* Patience is a by-product of tribulations; it isn't granted, it is earned.
* I asked God to give me happiness.
* God said, No. I give you blessings. Happiness is up to you.
* I asked God to spare me 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, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.
* I asked for all things that I might enjoy life.
* God said, No. I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things.
* I ask God to help me LOVE others, as much as he loves me.

A Labyrinth Prayer

I weave a silence on my lips,
I weave a silence into my mind,
I weave a silence within my heart.

I close my eyes to distractions,
I close my eyes to attentions,
I close my eyes to temptations.

Calm me, O Lord, as you stilled the storm,
Still me, Lord, keep me from harm.
Let all the tumult within me cease.
Enfold me, Lord, in your peace.