We all carry different religions and refer to God, as many names. Common to all religions is one thread that connects us all, and that is the miraculous power of prayer. I often get asked what Religion I am. I am Hindu by religion, and my husband is Catholic by religion. However, I do not think the God I believe in, is stronger or more powerful than another person’s. I think of it as one Power, who we all pray too.
In a World Religion class I took at: The College of New Jersey, during my Undergraduate Studies, I learned about may different religions including: Hinduism, Christianity, Catholicism, Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, etc.
Every religion teaches something, has different beliefs, and holds different observances. In Hinduism, there are many names and different forms of God, such as: Durga Ma, Krishna and Radha, Laxmi, Hanuman, Shiv, Ram and Sita, and Ganesh. These are just a few of the Hindu Gods. However, Hinduism teaches all these Gods protect in some way. I hold a larger view and say similarly, all Religions protect in some way, through the power of prayer.
I have realized that whatever form of prayer you use, it comforts you. Prayer is used as a way to empty our souls, to thank God, to show our concerns, or to voice a message. Especially in times of crisis, we all tend to pray. Whenever I see someone in pain or someone suffering, I instantly say a prayer to God. It is a natural instinct. The person may or may not be my religion, but I believe the prayer I voiced will somehow get channeled to the person who is suffering. Similarly, if I am in a situation where I am extremely vulnerable, I tell my friends and family, say a prayer for me. Many of my friends are not the same Religion.
I believe prayers can work miracles. In a time of crisis, a prayer can literally hold you together, give you strength to face the battle, and instantly calms you. In times of sadness, a prayer can console you. In times of happiness or joy, gratitude prayers show God we are thankful for what we have. Some people pray for protection of family or for good heath for loved ones. I have found that without prayers, my bond to God would not be as strong as it is. It is a form of communication to God.
At times, we may say a Prayer and ask for something from God. The wish may not be granted and we think why wasn’t it answered? We may be disheartened and feel helpless in the moment. However, we find a way to get through and realize the prayer was answered, it just took a little longer, or did not realize the answer.
I have learned nothing in life is permanent. Life is full of joys and sorrow, ups and downs. I have been through many obstacles in my life, but throughout all of them, prayers got me through. Prayers from friends and family (various Religions), gave me strength. I have seen many miracles in my life and I am firm believer, that these came to me, through the power of prayers. We all may be different Religions, have different paths of observances and ways of praying, but we all send messages to God.
