Prayer for Intellectuals, Naturalists, and Realists

Focal Point

The Lord’s Prayer begins with the address, “Our Father, who art in Heaven.”

An intellectual could address, “My higher self, residing in my highest consciousness”.

A Naturalist might look to, “Source of the Life Force within me and all of existence.”

A realist might get even more existential, “I now focus on the pure BE-ing within me and all that is.”

Another idea, use the title “God” as an acronym for “Good Orderly Direction,” as suggested in 12-step circles. It continues with what could be considered a title, “Hallowed be thy name”, or an acknowledgement of authority, power. “Whose name I do not know” was used by Tom Hanks’ character in "Joe Versus the Volcano," written by John Patrick Shanley. I’m sure it’s okay to borrow it.

Let Go of the Past

“Forgive us our debts/trespasses as we forgive our debtors/those who trespass against us”. Anyone who has ever carried a grudge knows how much energy it takes – this includes beating ourselves up for our mistakes. Forgiveness is really a gift for (for-give) ourselves. We let go of the weight of the past, and free ourselves to use our energy constructively, to build our best lives. And hopefully learn enough on the way that we save ourselves from future trouble. Intellectual: I release my hold on the past and focus all of my energy on the present. Naturalist: We all have our place in the cycles of life. Realist: I will learn from my past and use it to make today better.

Looking to the Future

“For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever.” As a closing, we acknowledge once again that there is something bigger than just ourselves and our lives, and that there is a future to consider that goes beyond our lifetimes. But we can harness that power, look to it to see beyond our accepted limitations and make the most of it to look toward creating a brighter future.

Intellectual: it is within my power to make the most of every opportunity, and live life to the fullest.

Naturalist: We are all in the process of evolution, becoming our best selves and improving and refining the balance of life.

Realist: It’s up to me to make it great.

Prayer for the Intellectual

My higher self, residing in my highest consciousness When I know what to call you, I will call you forth, and claim my highest potential. I use my strength of will to do, in my life and in the world, as my highest, best thoughts direct. I listen daily to the best within me and let it nourish and guide me And forgive myself for my mistakes and shortcomings As I also relinquish resentment toward those whose choices may have hurt me. I will not be ruled by desires that are not for my highest good, which will keep me from hurting myself and others. Because this is my one and precious life, And it is within my power to make the most of every opportunity, and live to the fullest my moments in eternity. May it be so.