IAfter saying thank you, I would play my song addressing prayer:
STEPPING UPON TOES
VERSE
When I was young they said to pray everyday.
God is listening to what you say.
Then as I grew, I saw young people die.
I didn't understand, some prayed all the time,
were always kind, then left behind.
BRIDGE
I tried so hard to conform
but wondered why some questions were ignored.
Everyone I asked wasn't sure
and said "don't bring it up anymore."
PRE-CHORUS
I didn't know that I was stepping on toes.
CHORUS
I just want everything to make sense.
When I ask why do folks get upset?
I wish not to offend anyone.
Just to have learned when it's all said and done.
VERSE
Eventually, I learned thatto accept
that most people need more in their
lives than they can see.
I even know some who are probably
smarter than me
who've devoted their whole lives to
what might not be.
What do they feel
that escapes me.
BRIDGE
Even though all faith is blind
it must conjure something inside.
In a dimension that I can't perceive.
if I don't know how can I believe?
PRE-CHORUS
Even though I feel I have an open mind
CHORUS
I'll leave worship and prayer up to you.
With no comment, opinion or counterview.
And I'll keep watching for that special light
that glows from that party I can't find

Copyright: Tommy Ryan 2004

It useta make me mad. I think thats a phase that agnostics/atheists/antitheists go through. Borne out of frustration more than anything else. "oh really? pray for me?? take THAT religion". But later we figure it's just kinda silly. Thats like Breakin up with your ex or something. I just thank them for the thought even if it was pretty hollow and self-serving. I just don't say the hollow and subserving part out loud. I can dwell on the fact that they wished me something that they considered positive which is cool and they can believe they made attempts or advances in converting the heathen. Doesnt hurt me a bit. They can believe whatever crap they want - just examine their belief system! It can be a win/win.

No i tell them they can waist all the time they want, it is theirs i guess! Yes i think it is a roundabout way to say they care and hope the "best" i guess?