Prayer by a Confederate Soldier

Prayer by a Confederate Soldier at a Marine Corps Pageant in Quantico:

"I asked God for strength that I might achieve,

 I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.

 I asked for help 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 for 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 had hoped for.

 Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.

 I am, among all men, most richly blessed.

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