It Clings

The internet is one of those things that I don't really have to understand to use and appreciate. Like flipping on a light switch, the "magic" of cyberspace is something that I've grown accustomed to, though it does remain a complete mystery in many ways. A recent increase in internet subscribers in Atqasuk has turned our local service on its ear and I'm not exactly sure why. It has something to do with that mystery, but in this case it doesn't feel all that magical.

Checking email (or updating a blog) during peak hours is like waiting for cold syrup to pour. It's almost painful! So, when a window of opportunity presented itself tonight (for some reason the connection is fairly decent at the moment), I found myself a little unprepared. I've wanted to add to the "tour" of the village, but thought that I'd have to wait until 5 a.m. on a Saturday or Sunday morning. That appears to be the optimal hour for tasks that require any speed, such as loading photos. But, here I am, faced with a speedy connection without a clue as to how to share what's been going on.

Many of you are aware that our little village lost two young men last week. It's been a difficult thing and, quite truthfully, I've felt more numb than anything else. Death isn't easy to deal with at any time, but senseless deaths seem even harder to accept. I don't want to handle lightly or insensitively the private pain of the families involved. But, at the same time, I don't think it makes sense to focus on the beauty of this place without at least acknowledging the harsh reality that exists alongside that beauty.

There is a danger in the darkness that has nothing to do with predators or frostbite. There are ways of being lost without ever leaving home. Like the snow that covers our corner of the world, sadness clings; it lingers. It changes the appearance of almost everything we see. My prayer is that the sadness covering Atqasuk will, like the snow, eventually loosen and melt away. If you are inclined to add the warmth of your prayers, I know this tiny community would be extremely grateful. Thanks.

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It's gotten very late as I attempt to complete this posting. If I don't get descriptions added tonight, I may come back in a day or two (as the internet connection permits) and do a better job. Until then, please feel free to ask about anything you see.

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Atqasuk Chapel...small in number...great in heart. :)



Clinging snow...





Meade River Store (left) and Atqasuk's post office (right).



Fire Station...



The tan building on the right is the bus barn...center building (with lights) belongs to the borough and houses the water and waste disposal trucks. The building center-left is the police station...one officer on duty, shifts change every two weeks.



A few houses have continued to display Christmas lights.



More snow clinging to the sides of the houses.