Answered Prayers / Ella Wheeler Wilcox

I prayed for riches, and achieved success; 
All that I touched turned into gold. Alas! 
My cares were greater and my peace was less, 
When that wish came to pass. 

I prayed for glory, and I heard my name 
Sung by sweet children and by hoary men. 
But ah! the hurts – the hurts that come with fame. 
I was not happy then. 

I prayed for Love, and had my heart’s desire. 
Through quivering heart and body, and through brain, 
There swept the flame of its devouring fire, 
And but the scars remain. 

I prayed for a contented mind. At length 
Great light upon my darkened spirit burst. 
Great peace fell on me also, and great strength – 
Oh, had that prayer been first!