Use the Internet as a Catalyst—Then Get Off

The internet is a wonderful, terrible invention, and we can choose to avail ourselves of the wonder or let it rob us of precious time. More so perhaps than any other time in history, we can choose to participate in almost anything, and we can find out how to pursue our dreams and goals more easily than we ever could. So I suggest we use the internet to find the information we need to catalyze our dreams, and then get off the computer, and go do it.

Be Wise

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Col. 4:5

This verse is good advice for using the internet and social media. We need to be wise. Attacking those who might be outside of our group on social media is not helpful. Instead, we can make the most of opportunities to get to know people better, encourage them, celebrate with those who are  happy and grieve and pray with those who are sad or ill. Know your own weakness, and avoid sites that might lead to addictions. It might be helpful to set a timer if you tend to spend too much time just browsing.

Make the Most of Opportunities

Secondly, we can learn so much from the internet. We can see what opportunities are available in our cities to go after jobs or hobbies we have always wanted to pursue. My latest adventure is auditioning and acting for local theatre companies. I’m having a blast. But without the internet, I wouldn’t have known about the opportunities in my city. Years ago, I had no idea how to go about finding auditions. But now, I just look it up and find out where to go, what to do, and how to do it. I did the same a couple of years ago when I wanted to do plein air painting. I found a group on the internet, and then I went to meet the group leader at her gallery.

One thing I hope we’ve learned from the pandemic is that we never know what the next day will bring, and the time to go after our heart’s desire is now. As the scripture says, “Make the most of every opportunity.” Instead of simply noticing while online that Kentucky Shakespeare Festival is having auditions, go do the audition if that’s what you’ve always dreamed of. I did that, and it was terrifying, but so much fun! If you’ve always wanted to learn to dance, go find out where the classes are online, and then walk away from the computer and go to that class. Things are opening up now. Get vaccinated, wear your mask when it’s needed, but go do something!

Pray and Go

As I write those words, I realize that some are not comfortable with going out yet when the virus is still around. I understand that, and again, I refer to Col. 4:5, “Be wise.” Know yourself and do what you feel is best for your health and well-being. For my health and well-being, it’s time to get away from the computer, get out of the house and go for it. If you feel the same way, say a prayer and go!

Do you see the internet as more of a blessing or a curse, maybe a mixed bag? I would love to hear about it in the comments.

I’m an artist who loves to write. If you’d like to get to know me better, please follow me on social media.

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