I agree.
It does change the person praying. I just wish that the positive energy of prayer could be put to far more constructive purposes.
If everyone who prayed for good weather for the church picnic got together and built a tent, immune to weather conditions, "God" would be actualised in their actions.
As it is, prayer offers a very dismal return ratio and fosters a 'pass the buck to the deity' mindset.
Positive thoughts are not enough - they must be followed by constructive action. In this manner they are realized.
;-)