thoughts on prayer

[morning_glory]

I'm starting this post at the request of members. Some of you have known me for a long time, some not at all. I have 7 years sober 8/10 with no lapses. It wasn't easy and I didn't do it alone!

My faith always helps me in times of trial and even when things are good! I hope to pass on some ideas on prayer and some actual prayers. Because I am catholic, I use those prayers but feel free to post whatever faith you are. This is about *you*, not me.That said-a few warnings: I also study spiritual warfare (and use it) and study demonology. This is so that I can identify possible demonic oppression/etc. In addiction, anything's possible! I'm not trying to freak you out-but please respect all my weird, mystic Catholicism! Please PM me if you want more info on this topic so we don't scare anyone .

Angels of God also inspire, protect and visit people ( a chill just confirmed this-a sign that the Holy Spirit is here).Warning #2: I am oriented toward the mystical! I spend a lot of time in S & S (silence and solitude) in order to go deeper into my relationship and devotion to my Beloved (Christ). So, you'll hear about S&S! Warning #3: I have spiritual gifts: discernment of spirits, counsel, wisdom, fear of God, and maybe more. Science cannot prove any of this but others see it and know it. Please be open minded as we discuss and journey. Last warning #4: Paranoia! I worry too much and am working on this, but if I see someone headed in a dangerous direction (according to my beliefs), I'll usually speak up. I ask you to speak up, too! You won't freak me out or shock me. Years of giving therapy to prisoners and sex offenders,victims has given me a pretty good idea of what's out there. I have also seen amazing healings and positive changes in people who were thought to be 'hopeless'. I can be a Pollyanna at times.

K, so lemme start with starting prayer life. First, know that God always begins the conversation. Even if you think it's all your idea. He created us, knows everything all the time, is faithful and loves you! He wants you to love Him back.

Prayer requires some S&S (silence and solitude). Find a comfy place where you can sit and not be interrupted! You may lose track of time, so it can be wise to tell your family you are doing a prayer/meditation and don't bug you unless it's an emergency. Turn off the phones and noise as much as possible. If you must have music, let it be instrumental or something that creates a reverent tone. You can sit in a chair, kneel, lay on the floor (prostrate), or stand, but stillness is a goal. More silence and stillness than you may have ever known before! Give yourself at least 10 minutes.

Some deep breathing and relaxation helps calm the body and mind. I try to clear the noise out of my mind and if I'm still distracted, will chant to myself -Alleluia, Amen, or something sacred to focus on God. when you first start praying, you may want to ask for help with whatever you're struggling with. Even though God knows everything, He loves it when we talk with Him! You can call your Guardian Angel, call the Holy Spirit, or the Saints. Say a prayer of protection:

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle.
Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray;
and do Thou, O Prince of the heavenly host,
by the Power of God cast into hell, satan and all the evil spirits,
who roam throughout the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.

Use that prayer liberally!

If you have lost faith in God, are mad it Him, or really confused, He wants to hear all of it. As long as you are reverent and speaking from a place of love, He will hear you. Catholics also address Mary and the Saints, depending on their own callings. Mary is higher than the angels because she was a human who never sinned. She was created for God's happiness and then asked to be Jesus' mother. Jesus gave her control of the world at His cross and she is very powerful!! God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit cannot say 'no' to Mary. Her sweetness and perfection is irresistible!

btw, angels aren't people who passed on, they are unique beings of spirit created by God to help us. Keep your angel busy! Bug your angel relentlessly and lavish him with love, but don't worship him.

Ok, so you're S & S pus have protection. Now, get deeper into that loving space, a childlike innocence before Him and start taking. Whisper quietly with hands folded-asking for what you need and know that crying is not at all unusual. Crying from feeling God's presence or that of the Holy ones is a blessing!! Try to focus on one or two things at a session. leave some time to hear Him speak to your heart. If you hear (still, small voice of God-not a 'real' voice, usually!) nothing, don't despair. Thank Him for your blessings, list some gratitudes, and close with love (In the name of the father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen

Get up slowly and let your entry back to 3D world be peaceful.

Here is a prayer that I love:

Hail, holy Queen, Mother of Mercy!
Our life, our sweetness, and our hope!
To thee do we cry, poor banished
children of Eve, to thee do we send
up our sighs, mourning and weeping
in this valley, of tears.
Turn, then, most gracious advocate,
thine eyes of mercy toward us; and
after this our exile show unto us the
blessed fruit of thy womb Jesus;
O clement, O loving, O sweet virgin Mary.

Pray for us, O holy Mother of God

That we may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ.

OK, I hope this helps. Please give me feedback.

Pax Christi