I am often amused by pictures of large groups of creatures crowded together facing in the same way waiting for the word to drop down on their knees or prostrate themselves OR, in the converse to disperse and run in all directions with no destination in sight.  Whether sheep, cows, pigs or other “domesticated” animals who will be one day served up on our tables in various cuts cum gravy with sides of artfully prepared vegetables (by the way, picture the rows and rows of perfectly cloned fields of corn, tomatoes and other crops we have bent to our needs) it could be ourselves, human beings, in prayer attitude that is being described.

I am no fan of prayer.  Prayer does not automatically come to my mind or lips as I recoil in fear and terror at something bad that is about to happen.  My mind works differently.  I weigh options and physically respond.  The person and groups, who pray, facing one way or another either on knees, standing or prostrate, expect some kind of payoff or answer. The animals we round up for our tables just go in the direction in which they are herded so we can enjoy the bounty their flesh provides.  Animals who are sentient round themselves up or listen to a Muezzin who calls them to prayer; Priests or Rabbis leading them to sing, shout, or silently address the supernatural author of their being.  I assume there is a dialogue – something like the Fiddler who scolds God – it resonates at least in the minds of people who are believers.  We can admire those who hear voices or incarcerate them.  We can make saints out of especially persuasive ones.  But those who attend prayer breakfasts go to a house of worship or sit in agony while taking a test; the prayer uttered is one addressed in futility for I THINK no one answers.

But, you cannot deny the power behind tradition and practice of thousands of years of human togetherness.  Alone we are weak - like a leaf in a storm.  Together we form a bulwark against darkness and the unknown.  Institutional prayer by professionals exist and will pray for you - relieve you of that responsibility. These are part of our way of living – rooted in belief.

I think that if you pray for anything (worthy things) a little bit harder and a little oftener, perhaps it will work and you believe you hear an answer.