Thorn in the flesh?

What exactly was Paul's "thorn in the flesh" was? Or what does that look like in my life? Is it only physical ailments? Or is any persistent trial a "thorn in the flesh"? These are just some questions I have running around in my head. It seems like when I plead for God to take away a trial He says to me "just a little bit longer, I will carry you through this."

I read this earlier today:

2 Corinthians 12:7-9 

So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. ⁸ Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. ⁹ But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Apparently it only took Paul 3 times of pleading before he gave in and figured it was God's will for him to deal with it. I must be a bit thick, I think. Or I have a LOT of growing up to do. 

Anyway, I need contentment. To live where God has me now, not living for the future and always only waiting for what I think are greener pastures ahead of me. I need to find joy in my trials, and trust that God is doing a good work in me no matter how much I think it hurts right now. If I am honest with myself, it really isn't all that bad. At least not when compared to hell or the promised future glory. 

Live in God's grace and mercy, like a big hug surrounding me. Deep breath. Have peace.