I always hear people say how they dont’ have time to pray. And then there’s the question of whether prayer works or not. Well, that last question all depends on how strong your faith is. WE all know the phrase, “God works in mysterious ways” right? WEll, sometimes the prayer is answered years from when you first prayed the prayer, and sometimes not. IT depends on what God has planned for you. NOw, as for the problem with making time for prayer, it’s simple enough: as much as you can. YOu shouldn’t feel like you should spend two hours praying five rosaries or even just meditating, although you could. If you are able to do so, that’s awesome. But, really, it only takes a few minutes to take time out for prayer. Some good techniques I’ve found are these: 1. Choosing your prayer place. Do you think bettter outside? Under your favorite tree? How about when heading to bed? When all the day’s work is over? Or, like my mom does, quietly sitting in the car. Yes, anywhere to get away from as much distraction is the key. Silence is something many people seem to be afraid of, but in truth, that’s only because we’re surrounded by noise. Noise pollution, traffic, music on radios and TV…and so on. The point is, making yourself sit still for ten to fifteen minutes–yes, even that’s very good–helps you relax. And, if you really listen, will hear god speak to you in your heart. 2. Ways to being a prayer warrior: Okay, so now you’re in your special quiet place. How should you start? I begin by clearing my mind of everything. NOw, consciousness is a flowing stream, and so your mind will wander quite a bit during this time. T/Thoughts about that TV show you watched. The chores you have to finish. That stupid essay you have to write…and on and on. So, just pull yourself away and center your self by saying, “Jesus. Jesus,” and you find yourself becoming more focused. ON none other than the king himself, three persons in one. Jesus Christ, your master, and creator, your Father who smiles at you as you enter his thrownroom with your intentions. 3. NOw that you’re focused and intuned to the silence, away from the insanity of the world around you, what kind of prayers do you feel you should begin with? Well, it really depends on how you feel. Sometimes I’ll open with the Divine Mercy Chaplet, which is half as long as the rosary. HOwever, the rosary is just as powerful. Then, when speaking directly to God, I’ll open my prayers with thanking him. I thank him for the day, my talents. My friends, family, home. Everything I feel greatful for. Then, I reflect on the day’s events and all the things I did that day. HOw did I treat that person? I wasn’t very nice when I said that. Wow, I feel terrible about making MOm mad like that. This is examination of conscious. Then, with these thoughts in mind, I ask God for forgiveness, and pray for the strength to do better in the future. Next I turn my thoughts to all those who need my prayers. Friends, those who requested to have me pray for, and lastly, I ask for my own personal needs. Then, I’ll close with thanking God for hearing my prayers and, of courseask: “God, please give me the strength and courage to face tomorrow.” Finally, I end with a reverant “Amen.”The Bible is the other tool I feel is good to read after praying, or even before, if my mind’s especially distracted. I don’t have any particular book I read in the Bible. ONly I try to select one, and read from beginnign to end over time. Even a few chapters to even just one chapter is enough food for thought for the day. Remember, prayer can be said anywhere, anytime. God is outside of time, ever-present. A good tip to keep in mind is when someone asks you to pray for them, and if you’re right there with them, whether in person or by phone, do it right then. Don’t wait til you get to your special prayer place. Just begin. Don’t have to speak in fancy elaborate words. However, speak reverantly to your mighty king. Well, I hope this gives you some prayer power to begin. Now, prayer warrior, carry out your mission!