In a world dominated by rituals and traditions, I find solace in prayer. However, my way of praying is unconventional, as I do not adhere to the usual practices. Instead of folding my hands or bowing my head, I pray openly, with my mind intertwined in crosswords. With every step I take, I feel connected to a higher power that surpasses human limitations. My faith lies not in a tangible being, but in the splendid distraction of nature – the majestic trees, the boundless sea, and the profound questions that surround our existence.

When I pray, I am not confined to a specific place or time. My prayer knows no boundaries; it extends far beyond the walls of churches or mosques. I am enmeshed in a divine conversation that transcends religious labels and denominations. Whether standing on a hilltop or walking along a bustling city street, I commune with the divine presence within and around me.

The concept of God, to me, takes on various forms. It is not limited to the anthropomorphic figure often portrayed by religious institutions. Instead, it encompasses the vivid tapestry of life itself – from the blossoming flowers to the roaring thunderstorms. The universe, in its vastness and complexity, reflects the magnificence of a divine creator. In this understanding, we are all an intrinsic part of this wondrous creation – you and I, and every sentient being.

As I traverse the pathways of existence, I pray on my feet. Each step resonates with the rhythm of the cosmos, reminding me of the interconnectivity of all things. Life, in all its splendor and struggles, is an ongoing prayer – a symphony of joy and tribulations. With every stride I take, I surrender to the greater forces at play.

My prayers are not mere petitions for personal gain or wish fulfillment; they are conversations with the universe. I do not close my eyes in an attempt to shut out the world, but rather, I embrace it fully. I seek solace in the whispers of the wind, the gentle caress of sunlight on my skin, and the harmonious symphony of nature’s sounds. In these moments, I am reminded of the divine presence that permeates every aspect of existence.

Perhaps some may view my prayer practices as unorthodox or unconventional. They may question the absence of established rituals or prescribed words. However, the essence of my prayer lies not in conformity but in authenticity. It is a genuine expression from the depths of my being, devoid of pretense or dogma.

In prayer, I find solace, guidance, and inspiration. It is through prayer that I uncover truths hidden within myself and in the world around me. The process of contemplation and communion with the divine nourishes my soul, rejuvenates my spirit, and imparts a sense of purpose.

As I continue to navigate through the tapestry of life, I am reminded that prayer is not limited by preconceived notions or physical gestures. It encompasses all that is wondrous and mysterious – the infinite expanse of the universe and the boundaries of human understanding. In prayer, I surrender to the enigmatic nature of existence and embrace the beauty that lies within and beyond.

So, I pray wide open and with crosswords. I pray with intentional steps, aware of the divinity within me and around me. My prayer transcends rigid confines and embraces the intricate dance of life’s questions. It is a celebration of the vibrant hues of this world, nestled deep within the inkwell of our collective consciousness.

My prayer is a testament to the boundless nature of faith. It defies conventions and embraces the awe-inspiring complexity of existence. With each word I write, with each thought I conjure, I offer my humble supplication to the cosmos. May my prayer, infused with the grandeur of trees and the immensity of the sea, ignite a spark of betterment within the intricate details of my daily life.

Copyright © Beatriz Esmer