It’s a small world after all, or is it? For centuries people used the telephone, US mail or telegrams to connect with one another. Now we can connect with family, friends, peers and colleagues in a myriad of ways. I still mail cards and make phone calls. I also send emails and texts. While I prefer to attend most events in person, there are times virtual is a better option if not the only one. Faith Talks, Author Book Talks and local UWF book clubs are a few examples. As a lifelong learner I attend webinars to broaden my knowledge and understanding.
If not for my computer savvy husband and my friend Julie T., I would not be comfortable navigating a computer or using technology at all. They will confirm that I was reluctant to learn. For a long time, I tried not using a computer beyond the one I used at work. (Currently, there are several computers in my home, only one is mine. My husband has two best friends, me and his computers. I am joking. . . sort of).
Like it or not, and some of us don’t, technology has become the primary tool people and organizations use to communicate and connect. One of my strengths is sharing resources and information. A friend of mine will be giving a presentation to young women as part of a mission trip this summer. She asked me to find resources she could use to develop her presentation. Within 24 hours, I sent her texts and some emails with links and a few documents. Several years ago, it would have taken me a few days because I was not as confident with my computer skills as I am now.
Gaining confidence takes practice and trying new platforms like Mighty Network (MN). I will admit I groaned when national UWFaith introduced their digital network format on MN in 2022. Another new thing I should learn and use. Oh joy! I joined, did my own step by step learning, and participated in one of their virtual orientation sessions. When I experienced challenges, and there were some, I sent messages asking for help and received quick responses.
Independent learning opportunities, joining groups like Soul Care, Reading Enthusiasts and accessing recordings of Faith Talks and other presentations are all available to us through Digital UWFaith on Mighty Networks. Members from across the country and around the world now have a way to share experiences, understanding, and resources expanding our knowledge using Digital UWFaith!
I may not be proficient, but I am more computer savvy than I was five years ago and grateful.
Connect with me on Digital UWFaith / Mighty Networks and see what all you can learn!
The link to Mighty Networks is https://uwfaith.mn.co
-- Ruth Bowen, involved HTC UWFaith member from FUMC Denton
