In our community, I am sure many of us know of a friend or loved one out of work.

Although fear and concern are natural reactions to the news we hear every day about the economy, our environment, and security, unless we are relaxed, we cannot act wisely.

Many people are drawn to prayer when they are fearful.

Whether we are Hindu, Muslim, Christian, or Agnostic, there is one thing that we can all agree upon--so long as we do not neglect our duties, prayer surely cannot do us any harm.

For those that are not agnostic, prayer can have a definite positive impact, because prayer allows relaxation to occur, and only when we are relaxed, can we act wisely.

When we pray, we acknowledge that although we have the power in our hands to act, we rely on whatever power that permeates this world to help us with strength and wisdom. Thus, when we are in

His hands, we can relax, as long as we continue our efforts, and do not neglect our duties.

This relaxation makes all the difference in the world. It allows intelligent decisions to be made. It is wise to make difficult decisions when you are relaxed, and can think clearly, rather then when you are frustrated. And sometimes, when you are looking at a problem too closely, you have to put it aside, and do something else. Sometimes, answers might come to you in the most unexpected places, and the most unexpected times.

Our job is always to try our hardest. We should be happy to know that we have tried our fullest. What else can we do? We cannot control everything. That is why we pray.

A more scientific mind might prefer meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises to promote relaxation. Such techniques for relaxation are accepted even among many in the scientific community.

As the current world events unfold, it does seem like a time for mental relaxation and wise action.

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