Friend Colwyn

The problem with that kind of analysis is that it misses out the basic intention of real prayer. Though Jesus taught people to pray using a formula beginning "Our Father", he himself prayed "not my will, but thine". A brief look at the "Our Father" itself will show you that the prayer is mainly aimed at helping the user to understand its own plight and to aim for those things which are of central importance.

Life is not a game of cards, actually. It's for real, and it's a situation in which every one of us can influence it for better or for worse. Why would we not wish for some guidance in this situation, albeit that the guidance may come (as Quakers believe) from deep within yourself.

As for philosophers, I have learned many of the most profound lessons in life from mentally handicapped people (I have a lot to do with them). From philosophers, I have learned practically nothing. They have little to teach.

:-)