We inhabit a world in which we perceive multiplicity. We see a myriad of creatures, each seemingly self-sufficient and independent. But we, as Jews, believe that in reality there is only one true entity. One God who is the essence of everything. One God who manifests in an infinite number of creations.
Fixing this idea in our minds is a great challenge, but it is fundamental to developing a relationship with our Creator and having a true appreciation of Him. With this goal in mind, we read the Shema (Hear) every morning and evening. It consists of three biblical passages (Deuteronomy 6:4-9; 11:13-21; Numbers 15:37-41) that begin with the Jewish definition: Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is One. It then mentions some basic tenets of Judaism: love for God, Torah study, the principle of divine reward and punishment, and the Exodus from Egypt.
Although the Shema is part of the morning prayers, even if you don't say them, you should still recite the Shema. In the morning, it is recited from when there is enough light to recognize someone you know from about two meters away until the third hour of the day (generally between 9 and 11 a.m., depending on the time of year). At night, it is recited from when three stars appear until dawn.
The Shema can be recited in any language. You must ensure that the place where you recite it is clean and that you pronounce each word correctly. You cover your eyes with your right hand to maintain concentration while reciting the first verse. Ideally, you should recite it wearing a tallit and tefillin during the morning prayer.