Blogger Appreciation: My Spyderweb

The virtual world is normally distinct from the real one, with relatively little crossover. Most people in each world are unaware of our existence in the other. Meeting a fellow blogger is a strange experience, because I know so much more about aspects of their lives than I normally would know when meeting a stranger. Similarly, realizing that a blogger you've been reading is actually someone you know is also odd. The wall between the real and virtual world is rarely breached.

Spyder, the voice behind My Spyderweb, is a rare individual I know well on both sides of the wall. We are former coworkers, and she claims that I am the one to blame for getting her into blogging. I told her of my blog, and I suppose she figured that if I can do it, anybody can.

While respecting her privacy, let me tell you a little about Spyder in the real world, for those who don't know her. She is, as you'd guess from reading her blog, outspoken, well-informed, and funny as all get-out. You might not gather from her blog, though, that she's very religious in the best sense - not judgmental, not imposing, but in a modest and quietly inspirational way. I can't imagine her wagging her finger at anyone. I know that one of her favorite quotations comes from Teilhard de Chardin - "Joy is the infallible sign of the presence of God."

Her blog reflects her joyous side. Right now, you can find a picture of her spider tattoo, lewd commentary on her spam folder, and pictures of a bird she helped rescue. Traditional piety is notably absent, but a good time is always near.

Spyder is also the spark plug behind most of the blog meet-ups. Tonight, at her urging, some of us will be gathering at McCoy's Public House for $2 pints and good company. It's a good opportunity to connect with the human being that exists behind the web personality. I'm grateful for Spyder the web personality, and for Spyder the person. I find joy in both, as would Teilhard de Chardin.