Dennis,

Everyone goes through times when God seems very far away, but it only feels that way. He really is close.

One of the best ways to change that feeling is to talk to Him as if He is close and can hear you. It is like prayer, but more like talking to someone who you know is listening even though they don't say anything. Imagine that a loved one of yours passed away, and you missed them.

• If you knew that they could hear you, what would say to them?

You might have a conversation — tell them:

• that you miss them
• that you love them
• that you are having a good day, a bad day, or anything like that.

Try it with God. Just talk. Then, set aside some other time to do real formal prayers. Let Him know that you are setting some time aside for some intentions you need to pray for, and make that a special gift to Him.

You have to think of God in terms of the relationship you have with Him. While He doesn't talk back, like other relationships, He will let you know in circumstances that He is listening. You will be surprised. You just have to start. Good relationships take time.

Mother Teresa had great experiences involving a closeness to God when she was younger but then, for most of her life, God seemed to be so far away from her — but look at her life!! You would have never known it. She was filled with love and joy and blessed so many people.

You can have such a life even if it doesn't feel that way all the time.

Peace,

Bob Kirby