For as long as I remember, I've believed in God. From kindergarten until 8th grade I went to a Catholic school. Although, the Catholic education that I received had many gaps. I didn't learn much about the structure of our prayers, our mass, and our bible and I didn't learn much about the controversial teachings of the Church. Because of these gaps, I spent many hours, days, and years pondering. Consider the prayer Hail Mary. What does it mean to say that Mary is holy? What does it mean to say that Mary is blessed? When we say "pray for us ... at the hour of our death" who is the us? Is it everyone? Then, why don't we say "pray for all of us"? If we ask Mary to pray for all of us, is that too much to ask for? I say pray for all of us whenever I pray the Hail Mary. Over many years I've developed my own answers to many of these questions. I have no way of knowing if my answers are good or even acceptable, but I try to learn what is taught and what people think about it. I believe there is great value in sharing thoughts and beliefs.