As my prayer became more attentive and inward I had less and less to say. I finally became completely silent. I started to listen --which is even further removed from speaking. I first thought that praying entailed speaking. I then learnt that praying is hearing, not merely being silent. This is how it is. To pray does not mean to listen to oneself speaking. Prayer involves becoming silent, and being silent, and waiting until God is heard.
The power of love is in hope, For by it we await the reward of love. The failing of hope is the disappearance of love. Hope is a rest from labors in the midst of labors. Toils depend on it. Mercy encircles it. Experiencing the gifts of the Giver of Life engenders hope. But he who is without experience remains in doubt.
~ from CHRIST THE ETERNAL TAO by Hieromonk Damascene
