My parents are currently serving a mission for our church in Fresno California.  My mom calls about once a month and I love visiting with her.  My dad is usually in the background listening and he joins the conversation every now and then. 

The other day they called to wish Henry a happy birthday.  Towards the end of the conversation I realized that I hadn't spoken to my dad at all.  I asked mom, "Is Dad there?"  I then heard a voice in the background say, "Yes, Laurie. I am here."  He was there.  He had been listening the whole time.  He was just quietly listening to me talk to my mother.

A flood of emotions overcame me and I found myself in tears.  I immediately thought of another Father that I have who also loves me.  Sometimes I realize that I haven't heard from Him in a while also but it's not because He isn't there.  He just quietly waits for me to slow down enough to notice.

When I take the time to get down on my knees and ask Him in humble prayer, "Father, are you there?" the answer is a simple "Yes, Laurie. I am here."