Davening - the Ascent

As with the decline in Avodas Hashem, the ascent begins with Davening.

Needless to say, the Yetzer Hara does not make it easy. Hashem wants us to arouse emotion towards Him, yet, the Yetzer Hara of secular society tells us "no one can tell you how to feel"…

Yet, if Hashem expects such an Avoda from us, it must be possible.

But, how?

Firstly, we need to remember that Tefillah is an Avodah – work. As such, proper Davening does not come easy. For me, just the knowing alone that it is normal for a proper Davening to be challenging, helped me not to get discouraged and to keep trying.

Secondly, we need to remember to keep going even if it means just saying the words. An author once said that he made sure to spend time writing every day - even nonsense, because he wanted to be sure that when inspiration would hit, the pen would already be in motion. 
Similarly, aside from the actual saying words of Tefilla being a Mitzvah, we need to keep saying the words... and not be discouraged by a current lack of inspiration, so that when the emotions begin to stir, we are there and ready.

Additionally, I have found the following activities to be very helpful in setting a stage for a meaningful Davening experience. I should add that at first, doing some of these activities felt stilted or awkward, but with time it becomes natural...

• Listening to a Niggun before Davening.
• Singing the Davening.
• Pointing to the words inside the Siddur.
• Saying the words out loud.
• Swaying - “Shukkeling”. Similar to saying the words out loud, the physical action awakens emotions.
• Choose a few paragraphs to say extra slowly. This calms us down and allows us the space to connect with the Davening experience.
• Before Davening, write down a few things you are grateful for and have them in mind when Davening.
• Learn the meaning of the different parts of Davening, and the translation of the words. When you find certain passages or Pesukim that are particularly meaningful to you, make sure to say those with extra intention.
• Read Hayom Yom, a letter from the Rebbe, or learn some Chassidus before Davening.

Let’s continue exploring where we hold in our Avodas Hatefilla, and continue taking steps to making it even more meaningful.

Hashem is waiting to hear from us.

And may we hear from Him speedily, with the coming of Moshiach now!