Faith
Down in the reception room of the Institute of Physical
Medicine and Rehabilitation, there's a bronze plaque that's
riveted to the wall. During the months I went to the Institute for treatment, I
rolled through that reception room many times, coming and going. But I
never quite made the time to pull over to one side and read the words on that
plaque that were written. Then one afternoon, I did. I read it and then I read
it again. When I finished it for the second time I was near to bursting - not in
despair, but with an inner glow that had me straining to grip the arms of my
wheelchair. I'd like to share it with you:
A Creed for Those Who Have Suffered
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 great 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 aked for all things, that I might enjoy life.
I was given life, that might enjoy all things...
I got nothing I asked for - but everything I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am, among men, most richly blessed!
