So now you are saying it's OK to "pray" to my friend i.e. address a solemn petition?
Egads.
It is no different from you asking any of your friends to "pray" for you
As I already stated, this lady did NOT JUST ASK MARY TO PRAY FOR HER. You are widely missing the point.
From the cross, Jesus entrusted His mother to His followers
You are very incorrect. Read the Bible text again. He entrusted Mary to John.
No ... and don't twist my words. Have you ever asked anyone to pray for you? Then you addressed a solemn petition to your friend. Asking someone to pray for you is far more serious than asking your friend to join you for drinks at the local bar.