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Counterpoint

 A CONFEDERATE SOLDIER'S PRAYER 

Author Unknown, (Attributed to a battle weary C.S.A soldier near the end of the war)

 

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 I hoped for. 

Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered. 

I am among all men most richly blessed. 

------------- 

Addendum from me: 

I asked for security, that I might be safe; 

I was given insecurity, that I might be open. 

 

I asked for long-term, that I might enjoy what is mine;

I was given short-term, that I might value the present. 

 

I asked for a quiet life, that I might have it for myself; 

I was given a busy life, that I might share it with others. 

 

I asked for opportunity, that I might excel; 

I was given challenge, that I might grow. 

 

I asked for normality, that I might blend in; 

I was given difference, that I might stand out. 

 

I asked for many friends, that I might be popular; 

I was given good friends, that I might be loved. 

 

I thought I needed what I wanted, as it was about me; 

I realise I wanted what I needed, as it's about others.

 

-----

 Reflection from 2021, provided by Idries Shah:

 You have come a long way, and you do not know it. You have a long way to go, and you do know what that means.

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