I asked and asked...

I asked God to grant me patient.

God said NO.
Patience is 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 from pain.

God said NO.
Sufferings draws you apart from worldy cares and brings you close 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 God for all the things i might enjoy life

God said NO.
I will give you life so that you will all things.

I askd God to help me love others, as much as God loves me.

God said:
Ahhh, finally , you have the idea.

from the simplified version of St. John the Cross' " The Dark night of the Soul"