Confederate Soldier’s Prayer
I asked God for strength, that I might achieve.
I was made weak, that I might learn to humbly 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 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 that I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am, above all men, most richly blessed.
1864
