soberlicious,
yes, yes to often people think if you think "X", then you must also think "Y" and "Z". . exactly.
and a fluffy yes to your "story" (why do i want to add that i'm not flyffy, either?? because the assumption is that if you're fluffy, you're also......fill in the dots).
couple of years ago i had spinal surgery, and someone said he'd pray for me. my reaction was as yours: nothing there i can't and don't appreciate. that person's "seeing" me, thinking about me and my situation, putting effort into wishing me well. it's a wonderful thing, regardless whether i share the belief in the efficacy of prayer.