Your thoughts on prayer

Excellent points, Diana.

I always find it amazing that many, many people don't question their beliefs. Generally speaking, we get our early beliefs from our parents and from our experiences at school. Parents and Schools are useful things - but they're not all-knowing. Some kids are brought up to believe crazy stuff, and if they never question what they're taught and never test it against reality, they can end up leading very narrow lives.

I think we all have to work out our own world-view, in the light of experience. And yes, we need to accept that other individuals have different world-views.

Sue, I don't think exchanges between believers and atheists need to be seen as an exercise in gauntlet-throwing. They do often become that, but if the gauntlets are quietly put to one side you can get some fascinating discussions going.

The following prayer brought tears to my eyes.

A DOG'S PRAYER

Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footsteps falls upon my waiting ear.

When it is cold and wet, please take me inside, for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements. And I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth. Though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land, for you are my god and I am your devoted worshiper.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life should your life be in danger.

And, beloved master, should the great Master see fit to deprive me of my health, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest--and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.

and I found this poem very thought provoking.