I like to have a ticking clock that I can listen to, to this day. It is a symbol of time passing but also gives me a sense of comfort.
I often find the same comfort in the rosary. When I was younger we were not actively going to church, but the rosary was discussed in my household. Both of my grandmother's prayed the rosary. One was Roman Catholic and the other High Episcopalian. I have often spoken here of how my mother encouraged me to ask 'Sweet Mary' for help with bad dreams and worries. I know the rosary comforted both of my grandmother's as they approached the end of their lives.
The rosary is very much like a ticking clock in the steady pace and regularity of the prayer itself. For a prayer so simple, there is so much gained on the meditation of the mysteries of the rosary. Insight given is truly a work of the Holy Ghost who allows as much grace as we need.
Sometimes I pray the rosary with intent for others, intent for myself or for the needs of souls. Mostly I find myself praying in reparation and thanksgiving these days. Even when all else fails, there is the rosary. I think of the great saints who were quarantined off from others and how they had the rosary to pray. I think of Pope Saint John Paul II who gave us the Luminous Mysteries and his encouragement to pray the mystery of all scripture.
The rosary is a small act that engenders so much grace to understand the will of God in our lives. When in doubt, pray the rosary. When in fear, pray the rosary. When in sorrow, pray the rosary. When in need, pray the rosary. I could go on as it has so many applications.
Pray the rosary. You don't have to be perfect at it.
http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/prayers-and-devotions/rosaries/how-to-pray-the-rosary.cfm
