On Prayer

For a couple years now, I’ve been loathe to use the words, “I’m praying for you” or “I’ll pray about that” or even “I’m praying for....” 

Y’all who read my stuff know whatever I once understood about prayer has changed for me so I haven't been sure if I should use those words. I’m still not sure how to describe exactly what prayer is yet. I’m still waiting and listening, if you will.

But because I don’t say the magic words “I’m praying”, I worry some may feel I’m ignoring concerns. Maybe a little hard-hearted. But I don't, and I'm not.

So I’m wondering if I should add those words back into my vocabulary, specifically for those of you who need to hear them. 

Because I do “pray”. 

I read or hear your story and from the depths of my inmost being without words, I yearn for the best for you. I yearn for your happiness and joy. I yearn for you to be healed and have your suffering eased. I yearn for you to have the peace of mind to endure all things.  

I yearn for these things for myself, too. 

And so in that light, “I’m praying for you.” 

“I’m praying for me.”

I’m praying.