Why and How Do You Pray, My Friend?

I studied in a Catholic school so prayer was a big part of life. We began and ended each class with a prayer. Sometimes the teacher would lead, sometimes a student would be assigned. Some teachers would encourage us to compose our own prayers instead of saying the Hail Mary or The Lord's Prayer. And when October arrives, the month of the Holy Rosary, we always pray the rosary after the flag ceremony.

Ninang Angie's recent blog, Why Do I Pray? ended with the question: why and how do you pray, my friend? I was moved to answer.

In my prayers, I always start with a thank you - for every new day that we wake up to, for the safety, good health, contentment, and peace of mind of me and my loved ones, and for the blessings that come our way.

Even in my darkest moments, I never forget to say that. Because after that moment, I believe that something good will follow. God never gives us problems that we cannot handle. Yes, the problem may seem unbearable at some point in time but we survive it. And we're stronger for that. So why not think of it as a challenge and come out a wiser and better person?

Occasionally, I would ask for something. Sana po pumasa si Sherwin ng boards. Sana po ma-outgrow ni JT yung atopic dermatitis niya. Sana po...sana po... And I believe he always answers. Not obviously. And not always yes. But always what is best and right.

Sometimes, I'd include a special request for a particular patient.

Then I end with The Lord's Prayer because I don't think I could say a better or more complete prayer than this one.

How about you? Why and how do you pray, my friend?