On Prayer and Remembrance

Dialogues on Checkerism

Wise man, why do we pray?
We pray for two reasons primarily: to remember those who preceded us, and to raise energy for the needy. Apart from that we observe the beauty and intricacy of Creation, of the natural environment that sustains us.
But we don't worship our ancestors, do we?
No, we don't. Though it is important to remember their names and what they meant to us, to us personally, to those we love, and to our society, worship would not do them justice... they won't benefit from such action.
Yet some other religions makes their important people into saints, some pray for their good karma, some pray for their rise to heaven, and some consider their ancestors spirits that can be contacted by those in the know. Why wouldn't our ancestors benefit from such worship?
We believe our ancestors have either moved on to their next life, or are still alive. Consider we pray for a reincarnated person's well-being, while they're busy living their new life... our combined energy would affect them and since we don't know what kind of life they're living, that effect could prove disastrous. The intent of cleaning someone's karma may seem to sound altruistic, but imagine wishing longevity to a one-day fly...
Then what methods do we employ, wise man? And who is it that I should observe?
Every person has their own important people to remember. In my own education, my teacher was of great influence, so I will name him once a week. My parents and my spouse also shape my life: I am grateful for their influence and will name them too, once a week. And once a year, we will tell and listen to stories about important people in our history. I'm sure you too know such people.
Yes, I do know such people. Is there anything else I can do?
Yes there is. Apart from remembering, we also pray for the needy. We direct our thoughts at those who need a boost: a bit of health, prosperity, good fortune, calmth, strength, etcetera.
Can you teach me how to do that?
One way is to create a list of people with their need. In a group, we assemble those lists and announce each person with their need. We then concentrate and direct our will, occasionally asking the universe for help, and wish for those needs to be alleviated. We do this once a week. As a matter of fact, today is a good day. Arise and join us in the temple.