I believe in the power of prayer, but only when it is done selflessly and not in pursuit of material gain. Prayer is our way of connecting with God or the higher realms, offered with love and humility for the benefit of others.
The most meaningful prayers are conducted privately, not for display. Prayer is not a form of entertainment, nor should it be used to seek admiration. It is a deeply personal act that deserves reverence and sincerity. When I pray, I do so for others, asking for their healing, peace, or whatever may be needed to restore their well-being. I always pray silently and never tell those I am praying for.
Prayer must come from the heart. It is better not to pray at all than to do so without genuine feeling. I have witnessed people recite prayers mechanically, like parrots, with no emotion or sincerity. When prayer lacks authenticity, I sense it goes unanswered. I say this based on my own experience.
Many people pray for money or other material desires, and their prayers often go unfulfilled. I am reminded of what Oscar Wilde once said: “When the gods want to punish us, they answer our prayers.”
