And as long as I am writing on the subject of prayer, I would also like to offer a tip to those who have a resistance to prayers (as I did and sometimes still do): Instead of thinking "prayer", think "speaking from the heart to the creator, a higher source or to something that transcends us". You may find that such a shift may release tremendous energy and joy deep from your heart. Also, try experimenting with creating your own prayers or "speeches from the heart to a higher source", according to your wishes and needs at the time.
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury,pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen
