Be in prayer

Do you pray? How often have you wondered whether your prayers were answered or ignored? Over time, many of us have turned prayer into a habit, a request list, or a ritual performed in moments of need. In doing so, we have slowly forgotten what prayer truly is.

Prayer is not something to do; it is something we are. It is a state of being where the mind comes into harmony with the higher wisdom, a deeper intelligence. When this alignment happens, the distance between the seeker and the sacred disappears. Prayer then becomes presence rather than performance.

PRAYER IS A STATE, NOT AN ACTION

Prayer is often mistaken for words, gestures, or routines. We may bow our heads, join our hands, light a lamp, or repeat meaningful phrases. While these expressions can support inner focus, they are only outer expressions. They do not automatically place us in a prayerful state. Words and gestures can be empty or take extra effort if they manifest from habit, repetition, or social expectation.

A person may speak sacred words without feeling them or follow traditions without inner connection. Acts of kindness, gratitude, silence, or goodwill become prayer only when they arise from inner alignment. When outer expressions flow from the being, they become effortless.

WHAT IS A STATE OF PRAYER?

What does it truly mean to be in prayer? It is a state of total surrender. A prayerful mind does not divide life into good or bad, devil or divine, pleasant or unpleasant. It is the deeper understanding of “thy will be done”, not as hopelessness, but as complete acceptance. When the heart no longer holds a separate will than what life offers, prayer begins naturally.

Prayer is not asking the Divine to fulfill desires. It is the art to stand open as life unfolds. When the heart accepts everything in its entirety without resistance, prayer begins from within. In that acceptance, fear softens, control loosens, and inner strength is born.

WHEN THE HEART BECOMES THE PRAYER

From this openness arise the true songs of prayer —s ongs of love, surrender, gratitude, and joy. Most of us repeat prayers born from a very few awakened hearts. While these words can guide us, prayer is not meant to be borrowed forever.

Do not only repeat others’ prayers. Allow your heart to write your own prayer, sing your own song. When the heart aligns with a greater purpose, the Divine music flows effortlessly from the source to the world through you.

The signs of prayer are not louder words or stricter rituals. They are a peaceful mind, a joyful presence, a loving energy, and a heart dancing with life. Don’t pray, be the prayer.

Courtesy: Rajyoga Meditation Centre, Kingston (meditation courses and counselling are offered free of charge). Get in touch via email: bkmeditation.jam@gmail.com or WhatsApp: 876-853-7848. Follow them on Instagram: rajyoga_meditation_jamaica.