Speak to the Gods. Ancient prayers are good. So are contemporary prayers written by priests and devotees. So are your own words that express the yearnings of your heart. Calling Them by names, titles, and epithets is good, but remember – They know They’re Gods. You’re the one who needs to be reminded.

Express your admiration and devotion. Give thanks where appropriate. Ask for what you want… but consider Who you’re speaking to. Is your request something important or something trivial? And remember the principle of reciprocity: if you expect to receive, you should expect to give.

Be careful what you offer. If you say “I’ll do whatever you want me to do” They may take you up on it in ways you never considered. My experience has been that the Gods are mostly (but not always) lenient with beginners, but much more strict with those of us who should know better.

Pray respectfully and pray mindfully, but pray.

John Beckett “Beginning a Devotional Practice“
(via intaier)