I believe in the power of prayer -- even though I'm not a religious person. Regardless of faith or belief, I believe that the act of praying to whatever higher power one believes in (or even having a deep conversation with one's self) is a very positive thing. We don't always get what we pray for, but praying for something positive puts positive thoughts in our minds and I believe in the power of positive thinking.

Another good thing about prayer is that I think it helps us put things in perspective. The things we pray for tend to be the things that are most important to us. Sometimes we get caught up in our lives -- we're so busy and stressed, etc. we forget about the things that REALLY matter. So, prayer is a way of reconnecting with a deeper part of ourselves and reminding ourselves of what is truly important.

I have also known people in my life who have very low self-esteem and don't believe that they DESERVE to have good things happen to themselves and those they love. Learning to pray for good things can help to validate self-worth and act as a reminder and reinforcement that they are as deserving of good things as anyone else.

So, despite the many different ways in which people pray, I do believe the act in itself has positive power.

P.S. In answer to your question: I usually pray for strength.