The Paradox of Prayer

Over the years I have engaged in prayer for a variety of reasons, in numerous settings and with variable application. Talking to God has become reflexive, sometimes intuitive—as though it’s something I just have to talk over—and it is often hard work. Bringing petitions about others is especially something that I have often endured as a chore that must be done.
So, it was with some surprise that, one morning I woke early and mulled over the concept of prayer. It was almost as if God was nudging me saying, ‘What do you think?’ Have you thought about this?’ In an effort to recall all my thoughts I’m writing this essay. It may be droll and pedestrian to some or even heretical to others but I’m writing it down for what it’s worth.