In the Book of Her Life, Saint Teresa says,

Contemplative prayer (oración mental) in my opinion is nothing else than a close sharing between friends; it means taking time frequently to be alone with him who we know loves us.

And this is a key part of contemplative union with God: silence with him.

But there is nothing at all that says that a close sharing between friends cannot take place in the world also. After all, Jesus said quite seriously, “Just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me” (Mt 25:40). Can’t there be a close sharing between me and Jesus through the humanity of those we meet, insofar as I am able to discern, see, and fix the eyes of my heart on Jesus’ presence in and behind people?