To begin to pray we all need a measure of humility. We have to set aside any idea that we must be in a good or holy frame of mind in the presence of God. We must be willing to pray when we feel mean or distracted or seriously tempted and even have the intention of giving into the temptation. We must place ourselves trustfully or even distrustfully in God’s presence exactly as we are. 

— Roberta Bondi, To Love as God Loves, 86.