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I have a cousin whom I love dearly. She is going through a tough time and has asked me to pray for her. I want to help, but I don't believe in prayer. What would your response have been?

Moosie822 4 Mar 29
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40 comments (26 - 40)

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0

Level 9

You are in my thoughts

2

Level 7

I have been in this situation before, and I usually just tell the person that I will. If it makes them feel better to think that I am praying for them, then so be it.

1

Level 9

How about if I take you to (lunch, shopping, a movie...)
How about if I cook a few things for you?
How about if I run a few errands for you?
Etc.
SO much more helpful than talking to the non-existent!

0

Level 6

If it makes her feel good to hear you say you will, id tell her I will or have as she needed to hear.
That's not in anyway betraying your beliefs but comforting a friend.

2

Level 8

Similar things have been mentioned, but "I'll send good vibes" seems to work.

3

Level 9

I'd tell her what she wants to hear, just to make her feel better, the do what you can by conventional means.

3

Level 7

I get that a lot I tell them my thoughts are with them. I know thoughts are as useless as prayers but it seems to make them feel better.

4

Level 7

"I'm here for you if you need me"

1

Level 9

Apparently she believes you are still religious? So I'd go with the flow and not cause more stress.

1

Level 4

Yes most time its a plea for help ..Not a reglious one.

4

Level 7

I'd tell her yes then not do it.

0

Level 6

If she knows you are agnostic or atheist, this is a form of emotional blackmail. I would offer what help I can but not succumb to praying.

2

Level 7

I tell people I will keep them in my heart's mind. That has to be as good as prayer, right?

I take it you don't work at a Hospice Center
0

Level 8

Skirt the issue by asking if you can help in any way at the physical level.

3

Level 9

Askher what you can do to help? Are you living near her? Is she ill? Figure out what you can do to help her. Financial? Child care? Cleaning? Cooking?

Really nothing I can actually do. She and her wife are trying to get pregnant after losing a baby not long ago.

sorry to hear
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