The first post in this sequence introduced the topic of conversation between people. In the second I introduced two other approaches to conversation: prayer and science.
The word ‘prayer’ may be a turn-off for some readers but bear with me. Understanding this is important to getting your message across online and in real life. I choose a traditional word because we need to make connections into ideas people already understand. Whatever you call it, paying attention is important.
Simplistically prayer can be understood as conversation with God, similar to conversations between people. There’s nothing wrong with being simple so long as it doesn’t lead to misconceptions.
- A conversation is two-way. If you think of prayer as a list of complaints or requests for help, this is not a conversation. Conversations work when we listen or pay attention. Prayer is essentially clearing the mind of distractions and paying attention.
- Conversation with God may be a problem for people who don’t believe in God. If the idea of God gets in the way, drop it. Prayer is essentially paying attention; a powerful idea of what you’re paying attention to can get in the way. Other traditions call prayer meditation. Some traditions that meditate, eg some branches of Buddhism, are atheist.
Benefits of Paying Attention
So, why is prayer so important? Through prayer or meditation, you may
- See things from new perspectives
- Notice details you have missed
- Slow down and take stock
- Identify your own misconceptions
- Understand the actions of others
- Become present, an essential if you are sharing insights online or in real life.
All these are essential in conversations with people whether online or in real life. A lot of exchanges in social media and websites would benefit from slowing down our thinking and producing more thoughtful responses, through paying attention. Do you agree?
