"Mary said, 'You see before you the Lord's servant, let it happen to me as you have said.' And the angel left her" (Luke 1:38). Therefore, though it is God who takes the initiative of coming to dwell in the midst of men, and he is always the main architect of this plan, it is also true that he does not will to carry it out without our active cooperation.

Pope Benedict XVI

I prayed for strength that I might achieve; I was made weak that I might obey. I prayed for health that I might do great things; I was given infirmity that I might do better things. I prayed for riches that I might be happy; I was given poverty that I might be wise. I prayed for power that I might have the praise of others; I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God. I prayed for all things that I might enjoy life; I was given life that I might enjoy all things. I received nothing that I asked for - all that I hoped for; My prayers were answered - I am most blessed.

Unknown

'Maintain the truth lovingly, and always love truthfully'

Pope John Paul II