hi pentinence87,
think i have to let you know something. in buddhism we do not pray
or worship buddhas and gods. we do not pray to gods.
we RESPECT buddhas and bodhisattavs and all beings EQUALLY.
in buddhism we do not just learn about buddhism, the sutra, the
buddha, the bodhisattvas and the teachings. we must also hands on
by MEDITATING AND ALSO REACHING OUT TO ALL SENTIENT BEINGS AND
THINGS AROUND as part of inclusiveness. that's opening up your
heart and mind more openly.
through meditating, the purpose of it is to understand reality that
can be found within yourself thus you will learn to live life more
wholesomely and meaningfully. learning to live life well is
essentially important.
the dalai lama said, "if we want to die well, we must learn to live
well."
may you find a reliable and good teacher to guide you through the
progress and be well!