Try praying differently, and see what happens: Instead of asking for 'a way to sleep with her,' try asking for 'a way to stop desiring to sleep with her.' Instead of 'a way to get rid of him,' try asking for 'a way to not crave his demise.' Instead of 'a way to not lose my child,' try asking for 'a way to lose my fear of it.' " -MARCUS AURELIUS, MEDITATIONS, 9.40.{6}"
The quote encourages a shift in perspective when it comes to prayer and desires. Instead of seeking external solutions to our wants or fears, we should ask for guidance in transforming our inner thoughts and emotions. For example, rather than wishing for fulfilling a desire, we should seek to understand or alleviate the underlying craving. This approach promotes personal growth and self-awareness by prioritizing the resolution of internal conflicts over external circumstances.
By focusing on changing our mindset rather than trying to control the outside world, we can cultivate a sense of peace and acceptance. The wisdom from Marcus Aurelius in "Meditations" reminds us that our perceptions and reactions often shape our experiences more than the situations themselves. This reframing of prayer encourages us to embrace a more introspective path towards emotional stability and resilience.
