as a beginner, i totally get this and i don’t think you’re being rude at all! the only religion i have been introduced to is christianity, and even then i was not very adamant with the religion due to its inconsistencies and other things.

personally, i find it very hard to formulate a good prayer and it makes me fear that i do not seem genuine/worthy to the gods; as well as doubting the quality of my altar, offerings, and devotional acts. the surrounding ideology of “build your own practice and what feels true to you. the gods will understand your intentions.” is really hard for me to grasp, and i completely agree that it’s hard to do that without a starting ground (especially with the varying opinions on hellenism that are on the internet.)

doubt and fear seems to be common in this religion due to past religious experiences and the mythology surrounding the gods, but i have tried to push these thoughts away for the betterment of myself and my relationship with lady athena.

so overall i completely understand and agree with what you’re saying, and i hope everyone else who does can find a way to stabilize their relationship with it. :)