This mental picture makes the student more relatable and us more real to them.

I agree, Lacey. I find that I am trying to stop pauses and silences and in doing so I miss opportunities. Stop, listen, pause, respond!

I try to picture them based on what I hear and don't hear. It makes it more of a real setting than just being on the phone.

I do, too, Patrick! This is probably my number 1 goal. How do you plan on changing this/

How do you think our listeners ascertain how willing we are to engage with them?

Don't you think you are able to hear how someone feels based on their tone of voice and energy level?

People are able to 'hear' our hearts!