Truth Seeker,
At the time I was unaware of what C&E was, or how to obtain it. The memory of receiving it was hidden from my mind, though I knew something had happened, I could not recall exactly what. I did not approach my PB with the right attitude. I was looking for a solution to problems I was having at that time, rather than a guide for the future. I can see now what I was seeking was a Priesthood Blessing, but I had not yet met someone I trusted enough to provide it. Ah, the follies of youth.

As for the ability, or the promise, or other such phrases, how often do you hear people say in their prayers "that we may" or "that they might"? It is ingrained in our culture, and something I have striven to change within myself. I try to ask God to actually give the gift or blessing I seek, rather than that I MIGHT receive it. Patriarchs are still human. As such, they are not perfect interpreters of the visions they see while giving the blessings. For surely anyone who gives a blessing properly is merely interpreting the tongue of angels into a language we can understand.