Hi Deb. I likked your essay about the cute shoes and prayer. It is not for me to say, but did you consider that the idea of the shoes was a reward for being a good person? Is it possible, that every act of kindness you offer to another is the most signifcant way to pray? Don't you find being a good mother, loving wife, and holding fast to your beleifs and convictions viewed by the Lord as honoring the teachings? You do not give yourself enought credit. A church is just a building. But the good person is the personification of prayer. No one has to tell us what needs to be done in the world. It is there for all to see. No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted. Don't you think?