In 2012, the band Big & Rich released what I believe is one of the greatest songs of all time: “That’s Why I Pray.” If you’ve never heard it before, or even if you have, I recommend you take a listen before reading on. Regardless of your religion or whether or not you believe in God, the song is both humbling and uplifting.

I don’t need to tell you what’s going on in the world today. We’re bombarded with bad news every time we turn on a TV or tune into the radio. Terrorism attacks, shootings, riots, protests, refugees fleeing violence. This storm cloud of misery seems to hang over our heads, pelting us into submissive hopelessness. If you’re like me you might wonder if it’s even safe anymore to go to class or board a plane.

Now let me ask you, when was the last time you prayed?

And I don’t just mean at the dinner table, when you were really only thinking about food rather than giving thanks (I’m guilty of this).

In this day and age, it seems more important than ever to remind ourselves to pray. When our world was astounded by the devastation in Paris last Friday, it made me think about the last time I prayed – not just a little prayer thanking God for a sunny day, but the kind of prayer where I stopped what I was doing, closed my eyes and prayed with all I’m worth.

In all honesty, I can’t remember the last time.

So today I pray for awareness and change. I pray for peace and comfort. I pray to give thanks for all I’ve been blessed with. I pray for those in despair and those left with nothing. I pray for bravery and courage and guidance for you and me and our world leaders.

The approach of Thanksgiving grants us an opportunity to open our busy lives and remind ourselves to pray. Even if you’re not into praying, practice mindfulness and simply give thanks. Count your blessings, write a letter, donate money or blood or send a care package. Whatever it takes to make the world a little bit better place. Because the problems in this world probably won’t get better any time soon and they’re more than likely going to get worse in the near future. But praying is one small thing you can do to take a stand. And even small things can make a big difference.