"Add some beauty to the internet with your life.

Make sure your life makes a difference."

*Diana Seago, OSB*

Today I was given a gift. Our Spirituality & Literature class went over to the Mount this afternoon to have class with S. Diana Seago, computer guru for the Monastery. She spoke on Spirituality and the Internet. I will admit that before going over there I could not figure out how you could relate those two vastly different topics---but in a few short minutes with Diana and it all seemed to be common sense. She spoke to us about the importance of connections--with each other, with our families, with nature, and with God. Then she put the internet into the mix and how it is such an amazing invention of connection. We are able to talk to people all around the world, access research and information that we would have never known without the web and, most of all, welcome one another as guests. Benedictines are known for the remarkable and humbling hospitality. Until today, I thought that hospitality was to all who entered the doors of their monastery, but now I realize it is extended to all who enter their inboxes or blogs as well. Diana encouraged all of us to treat everyone on the internet as a guest, therefore, as Benedict says 'let all guests who come be received as Christ.' We should treat everyone around the world, who are now at our fingertips, with the love and hospitality that we would share if they walked through our doors. What an insight--what a thought provoking class. Thank you, Diana! You shared our passion, your wisdom, and your spirituality---it was enriching! For those of you who do not know Diana--you are missing out. I do not think I have ever met someone who could make me laugh so easily and whose odd sense of humor I see in myself (which is scary). She has been a source of unfailing encouragement to follow my dreams and to GO FOR IT, no matter what 'it' is. She has challenged me to speak out for what I believe and challenge others to raise their standards, and to never tolerate an injustice. She helped me to understand that it's okay to just be me. She encourages me to be aware of the world and its happenings, and most of all that you should never drive the Mount car when you are not even allowed and it is icy (Halleulia--right, Diana?) Yep, that's Diana-encouraging, hilarious, strong, full of life, and a computer nerd. She has always treated me as she would Christ (well...except for her reminding me I'm weird) *Smile* But I think she just likes to see it when she sees her own kind! *Smile* From the moment you meet her you are no longer a stranger. She is a constant, who when the chips are down or when life is great--is there to pick you up or celebrate--or so has been my experience. She's especially nice to call when the bathroom in your dorm is leaking everywhere and it is a mess and your school doesn't think it is an emergency and you are freaking out. She brings a little rationality back into your brain! (Smile) Thanks Diana!!!

If you ever get the chance, visit a Benedictine monastery. I speak from experience when I say you will never feel more unconditionally loved in you life. They are a unique group of women who have joined together to add beauty to the world, to touch all they are connected to, receive others as Christ, and are joined in their mission of seeking God together.

Picture: Diana...sometime last year during one of my many meals at the Mount. This is a typical Diana face. Smiling from ear to ear and laughing---I don't know if she'll mind her picture being plastered on my blog--but then again I didn't ask! (I think another thing Diana taught me was 'it is easier to ask for forgiveness than persmission. Right Diana? Just kidding, sort of.)