"A talkative, over-curious, and restless person is like an oven which is open and exposed on all sides, and which keeps no heat; you will never enjoy the sweetness of a quiet prayer unless you shut your mind to all worldly desires and temporal affairs.” St. Bruno

It is so hard to quieten our minds at times, especially when we come before the Lord in prayer. And yet without an attentive presence, our prayer will be mere words. It may help to spend the first part of our time before the Lord uniting ourselves with the angels and saints praising, glorifying and thanking God for his many blessings. If the distractions persist, then briefly talk to the Lord about these thoughts and concerns. Then try to focus on him in silence, contemplating his gracious love. Whether or not we hear anything is not important. We are there for him.