We have often heard it said, "That picture speaks to me."  This response can happen spontaneously at first glance with an icon or it can grow through long, intensive reflection.
To let an icon speak to us, we must stop and savor it and be exposed to it so that it can effect us in its own unique way .  We must be aware of the inner phenomena that is released in us through looking at an icon.  Therefore, let the icon simply "make an impression" without asking for a specific meaning immediately.  Only after long periods of time can we guide our inner awareness to the important presentation of the figures in the icon:

- let the total composition of the icon embrace you from "outside" to "inside"...notice the  major lines and figures that are created...linger with the center of the icon...
- let the colors impress themselves upon you and try to experience their "ring" and what they   cause to "resonate" in you ...
- In all medieval pictures the symbols speak their own language.  Open yourself to them... .  (chalice, circle, triangle, tree...)
- the posture, the mime and the gesture of the figures reveal something of what is taking  place in them (the hand with two outstretched fingers is the priest's gesture of blessing).

- Andrei Rublev - The Trinity  (Meditation on picture)
In an open stance before God linger and look at this icon.  Let God speak to you by allowing the icon to address you.  Looking in this way becomes prayer more and more...