On Second Thought

So, last Sunday at church I decided to go for prayer. To be honest, I really didn't want to. I am all for prayer. But, I had gone the week before and that is just how I was feeling. It seemed good to go though. So, I did. As I approached the kind, older couple I stated a vague request that could indicate a lot of things. I figured I would keep it simple. The problem was they are hard of hearing. So, they both looked at me and with a LOUD voice, asked, "what's that?" Immediately I knew this was NOT a good idea. I was feeling majorly threatened. Now, my prayer request wasn't super personal. It wasn't anything to be secretive about. But, boy did I feel on edge knowing that the whole church was about to get in on my prayer request. My eyes were pretty wide when I realized how LOUD they were talking and my body went tense. Everything inside me was saying, "NOOOOO!!!" It was all I could do to keep myself from saying, "PLEASE be QUIET" and "Would you please mind whispering?" Another part of me thought it was funny and I was smiling- only out of consent to be a good sport. I was majorly uncomfortable. I tried to give them a look that said, "if I raise my voice everyone can probably hear us." They didn't catch on. I endured the session, making a mental note to never go back for prayer if they are on duty. I did my best to endure and receive. What else was there to do? I was never so relieved to be finished getting prayer. And, I made my way back to my seat. I know I don't need to give you any instruction on prayer ministry. But, feel free to bring this example up at any trainings should you feel so inclined. I would be glad for others to be spared:)