The following poem was written by an unknown Confederate soldier that hung (not certain if it still does) in the reception room of the Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in New York City. This poem is one that inspired Baseball Hall of Fame Brooklyn Dodger’s catcher, Roy Campanella, whose career was cut shot after a tragic automobile accident that left him a quadriplegic for the rest of his life. Campanella said upon reading the poem, “I was near bursting, but not in despair, but with an inner glow that had me straining to grip the arms of my wheelchair.”

A Creed For Those Who Have Suffered

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 of God…

I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life.

I was given life, that I might enjoy all things…

I got nothing I asked for – but everything I hoped for.

Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.

I am, among men, most richly blessed.

The poem speaks to all who have suffered, perhaps without understanding and who likely wonder why. I also think it is a solemn reminder that the things from the past, even those that are dark and painful, if contemplated through the biblical perspective of God’s sovereignty, can not only encourage us, but inspire others for years to come. For truly, “…in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). What is “His purpose”? The next verse, that we often forget, answers that question for us. “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son…” (8:29). God cares more about our character than our achievements… more about who we are becoming than what we are doing. So whatever has happened, is happening, or does happen in our lives, God desires to use to transform us into the best version of ourselves, the people He created and saved us to become.