The Power of Prayer

As always, at this time of year, I am reminded to count my blessings, as so many in this world have nothing to count. It is hard to imagine, from my vantage point what having nothing would be like. I only know that I do not really want to find out.

This brings me to discuss using the power of prayer to give oneself over to a greater power than your mortal self. As religion and prayer are very personal choices, I will use the term "higher power", which can be interpreted as God, Buddha, Mohamed, the Great Spirit, and other words that signify "God"for each reader.

I came across a very good article from the book Beginner's Grace: Bringing Prayer to Life, by Kate Braestrup. Braestrup says that "prayer is deliberate, intensive thought, offered silently or spoken aloud. It's a tool that allows us to be more conscious, like meditation. . . .Prayer is likely to be our default mode for managing the fear and pain that sometimes come with human experience and for engaging the sacred dimensions of that experience."

I like the author Marianne Williamson, who has written several books for women, including A Return to Loving , and a Women's Guide to Worth. From Real Simple magazine, May 2010, Williamson has an article called: 10 Ways to Stay Spiritually Connected. The 10 steps included: Recognizing your Creator, Set time aside each day to spend in spiritual reflection and contemplation, and Bless the world--all very important activities that we need to find time to practice.

It seems to be very difficult for me to stay focused and in the now. I tend to rush ahead getting things done, or problem solving. It is hard to get me to stay still (right Mom!). However, when I do center myself it is a wonderful feeling.

With the Christmas/Holiday season approaching, I find myself running out to get presents, and then more presents. I don't usually stop until I get whatever I have "scheduled" for myself done. The good news is I am almost done! Then I will have time to enjoy celebrations with loved ones. The thing that I look forward to the most.

Have a joyous time this season! Share your love, and spread joy!

Here is a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.--" Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step."

Peace!

Joan