"Acquire the habit of speaking to God as if you were alone with Him, familiarly and with confidence and love, as to the dearest and most loving of friends. Speak to Him often of your business, your plans, your troubles, your fears— of everything that concerns you. Converse with Him confidently and frankly; for God is not wont to speak to a soul that does not speak to Him." (St. Alphonsus Liguori) Is this what St. Paul talks about when he advocates unceasing prayer? It is a habit that takes discipline and practice before it becomes an integral and fruitful part of our lives. Often we speak to God when we need something from him, otherwise he is not on our radar. Is a wonder that we feel sometimes that he is not listening and is not responding? As St. Alphonsus Liguori said above: "For God is not wont to speak to a soul that does not speak to Him." Begin and increase the practice of short ejaculations to God throughout your day. Offer prayers of praise, love, thanksgiving, adoration, blessing, etc, to remain consciously in His presence. Then, when we do offer our petitions, they will be part of a bigger conversation and relationship.