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.

[rosehelene.livejournal.com]

I generally like her blog, and I follow it.

IMHO...prayer is a tool to alter the brain chemistry of the the person praying. Meditation and ritual can do the same.

[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.

[deborahjross.livejournal.com]

I agree about meditation and "sacred dance." For me, the line between prayer ("talking to God") and meditation ("listening to God") is artificial. I love the Quaker imagery of holding someone "in the Light," which feels to me to be both.

Sometimes what we call prayer is a cry of anguish, a plea when our own resources seem exhausted. Sometimes it's a wish we can't phrase any other way. Sometimes it's a way of connecting with generations past (and generations to come).

My favorite prayer, however, is simply, "Thank you."