(February 1, 2016 at 10:26 am)Catholic_Lady Wrote: Dr Fuzzy, I liked this article very much. Thanks for sharing it. I have always felt the same way myself, though still don't know if I'd go as far as to say it's actually harmful, in and of itself. But I do see how it can be if it leads counter productivity.
My mom always told me that praying isn't supposed to be about praying for "things" that you want, or for things that you want to have happen. But rather, it should be about praying for strength if we're going through a rough time, or praying for the will to use our talents/treasures to help others around us, etc etc. And even if God weren't real, I think praying for these things is still good because it puts the person in the right mindset and the right attitude.
Here I am on an Atheist Forum, agreeing with a Catholic.
Yes, I was always told that prayer should be thankfulness for what we have, and that if we ask for anything, ask for strength and understanding and to do what's right. And even if God isn't real - - there are meditation exercises for thankfulness and insight and calm. And to touch on the OP for just one second more - really, would Jesus approve of the public posturing? I believe it's in Matthew "when you pray, pray in secret" - - if you pray to be SEEN praying, then you've been seen - as Jesus said "they already have their reward". I still play for Catholic Mass. I love working with the choir. They are good people. I just don't discuss my lack of faith with them.
"The family that prays together...is brainwashing their children."- Albert Einstein
