Quote of the Day
The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials.
— Chinese Proverb

 Verse of the Day 

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 
— James 1:1-2

And then. . . 

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 up. 

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
And God said "No."
He said her spirit is whole, her body is only temporary. 

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 would prune me to make me fruitful. 

I asked God 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 asked God to help me LOVE others,
as much as he loves me.
And God said, Ah, finally you have the idea. 

~Author unknown~ 

Last update: 2/15/00