I asked God to take away my pride, and God said "No."
He said it was not for Him to take away, but for me to give it up.

I asked God to grant me patience, and God said "No."
He said, "Patience is a by-product of tribulations. It isn't granted, it is earned."

I asked God to give me happiness, and God said "No."
He said He gives me blessings, happiness is up to me.

I asked God to spare me pain, and God said "No."
He said, "Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to Me."

I asked God to make my spirit grow, and God said "No."
He said I must grow on my own. But He will prune me to make me fruitful.

I asked for all things that I might enjoy life, and God said "No."
He said, "I will give you life, that you may enjoy all things."

I ask God to help me love others, as much as He loves me.
And God said, "Ah, finally you have the idea."