This past week I read a short article in the America magazine entitled “Seeding Cyberspace.” It sparked my interest since the opening paragraph spoke about St. Paul.  The author, Lori Erickson, was speculating on the idea of St. Paul being alive today and how she believes that Paul would no doubt have taken advantage of the computer technology to spread his message.  I actually tend to agree.  It would have been especially convenient for Paul had he had a computer while he was locked up in prison for years at the time. 

    The message Erickson attempted to bring home was that using cyberspace, as a tool for evangelization or for helping people on a spiritual journey, can be very helpful.  Apparently even Pope Benedict has encouraged his priests to embrace online communication as he fully realizes that this means of communication has the potential to reach millions.

    Taking cyberspace too seriously, however, can be the downfall of people as well as their salvation.  When we spend too much time online we are taking some serious time away from being with people face to face.  Too much time face to face can be a problem but not enough time is deadly both spiritually and psychologically.  Balance is the key to perfection.

    I found another example of this same train of thought.  I was surfing the internet looking for various insurance agencies in other parts of the country and I fell on one with a website that spoke on this philosophy.  The website had a short video on which we could actually see the agent speaking.  She spoke of the wonders of technology but she also emphasized the importance of face to face, i.e., personal communication.  It is often more important for people to know that they are being well understood and cared for the agent stated.  What is important for us to remember is that this is not only true for business but it is equally important in personal relationships

    Lastly, this same topic came up on the news this past week.  I was really impressed with the depth of thought.  Apparently there is some fear that too much technology especially in the line of texting and chat rooms is not helping the younger generation to learn the importance of face to face communication.  The real fear is that our young people will have serious challenges ahead of them with respect to maintaining personal relationships.  They simply will not be used to listening to one another.  All the skills that are developed by sitting with another person and being able to read facial and body language will be lost.

    Maintaining a balance is so important in life.  Happiness, peace and love can only be attained through balance.  Perhaps we could take some time to reflect on this idea.  Use your computer to get some great ideas but take some personal time alone to pray and to communicate with the God who love you and wants your love.  Love, after all, comes from the heart, not from cyberspace.           
                            Lorette P. Nault