Once, twice, 53 times a sinner?

We are taught that creating our reality, and all within that reality, begins with thought, with intention, with our minds — and then with words, followed by action.

by Susan Torres — 

In the dawning of this new age — the age of enlightenment, the Age of Aquarius — whose threshold we have just crossed, we were and are continuously taught and reminded to watch our thoughts, words and actions. They yield tremendous power in our lives, just by their vibrations or energy. They unquestionably affect our life and the lives of those we touch.

We are taught that creating our reality, and all within that reality, begins with thought, with intention, with our minds — and then with words, followed by action. This universal law applies to every single human being — regardless of race, color, gender, age or creed — always has, always will. There are no exceptions.

But, what about traditional prayer? Do we really listen to what we are saying or do we just recite by rote? For centuries we have been taught and have recited very powerful, traditional prayers. The Rosary, one of the most well-known ritualistic prayers, is said daily throughout the world. Vision sightings of Our Lady of Medjugorje are still seen in this age, where she implores us repeatedly to pray the Rosary for world peace.

However, in reciting the “Hail Mary,” a powerful prayer of honor and supplication for each and every one of us, we speak the words “Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us ‘sinners,’ now and at the hour of our death.” And yes, we all fall short of the mark and certainly we can all use Mother Mary’s help — but the word sinner — isn’t there a better word, a more positive word we can use to speak about ourselves?

In saying the Rosary, we repeat that prayer 53 times. Do we really want to declare to the Universe, again and again, that we are sinners? What message does that convey to our minds? Even if we simply speak the prayer by rote, not  consciously listening to what we are saying, we still know that those words have a powerful impact on our lives.

Does continually affirming this sinner status to our minds give us the OK to continue acting as we do? When we make a mistake, or treat someone less than respectfully, is it justified because, after all, we are sinners and are expected to behave that way? Do you really want to call yourself a sinner, again and again?

Maybe, just maybe, we could say “pray for us winners” or “pray for us servants” — or perhaps just a simple “pray for us” would do the job. Maybe it is time for us to take accountability for ourselves, in every arena.

Watch the words we say and make a positive, joyful noise unto the Lord, unto Mother Mary, unto the Universe itself by speaking of ourselves in a positive, loving way. Amen.

Susan Torres is an ordained minister, certified spiritual counselor, intuitive angel reader and Reiki master teacher/practitioner. 602-548-1313.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 25, Number 5, October/November 2006.