I have been an oblate for twenty nine years. I became aware of St. Benedict and his rule through a friend, which led to retreats at a Benedictine priory and eventually to entering a Trappist Abbey. As a novice I came to realize that my desire was to embrace contemplative prayer which for me was to be lived outside the monastery. I had also come to love more deeply the Rule of Benedictine and in addition to remaining in relationship with members of my Abbey, the oblate life is right for me.