Prayer. It is more than just asking for things we want. It is essential for
our happiness. To connect to Spirit replenishes our Spirit. Prayer is most
powerful when done from the spaciousness of our connection to Spirit.
Rev. Patrick introduces the book of the month, [_Seven Thousand Ways to
Listen_ by Mark Nepo](http://marknepo.com/books_seven.php), as he weaves
together four principles of life through a poignant parable about an
apprentice. The apprentice gains insight from his work in a bakery, winery,
farm, and along the seashore. Through the stages, he learns what it means to
be _a sieve_ (sifting through flour is like sifting through life's experiences
to get the finest things out of life), _a strainer_ (if we're not careful, we
can become "drunk" on the dregs of life, the negative experiences of our
past), _a funnel_ (directing water for irrigation is like connecting to
Spirit), and _a sponge_ (there is great joy in taking in whatever life is
giving, and giving of oneself freely, without inhibition.)