On "The Power of Prayer"

[deborahjross]

Food for thought: even if prayer has no supernatural effect whatsoever, does it have power? I found this essay from a primary care doctor particularly moving. She does not argue that prayer heals, that prayer somehow persuades the universe to behave contrary to its laws, or that people who pray are somehow better than people who don't. Her argument for the value of prayer is independent of any proof or dogma.

What do you think?

Speaking only for myself, I think that sometimes life is so hard, so crushingly painful, I can't get through it alone.

Comments

[http://users.livejournal.com/la_marquise_de_/]

To me, if nothing else, prayer focuses the mind and the heart amd brings us back to our centre. And I feel I am listened to.

[deborahjross.livejournal.com]

That seems to be a deep and universal human longing -- to be listened to. I think that's why programs like Compassionate Listening are so successful. When people feel deeply heard, their heartfelt concerns honored, it opens up the space to release anger.