The Story of Alexander Atkinson, Sr.

Alexander Atkinson, Sr. is a man whose life has been a testament to love, dedication, and community spirit. As a beloved son, husband, father, and grandfather, his influence extends across generations, touching the lives of many.

Alexander, fondly known as Alex, has been a pillar of strength and support for his family. He is a devoted father to Alberta Buxton and Alex Atkinson Jr., and a proud grandfather to Jacob, David, Michael, Joseph, Tobin, and Gabriel. Despite the heartache of losing his first wife, Roberta Atkinson, Alex has found happiness again with Christine, bringing joy and warmth into their family life.

Alex’s heart is as vast as the Alaskan wilderness he calls home. With a heart of gold, he has always been an exceptional fisherman, hunter, and provider, ensuring his family is well-fed and cared for. His skills in hunting and fishing are legendary within the family, and he has passed on his vast knowledge to the younger generations, teaching them how to harvest seafood and appreciate the natural resources of their homeland.

His commitment to community involvement is unwavering. Alex makes it a point to attend local events, showing his support and fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie. Known for his sociable nature, Alex loves to be surrounded by family and friends. His passion for singing and his infectious laughter bring joy to every gathering, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere wherever he goes.

A deeply spiritual man, Alex’s devotion to serving his Creator is evident in everything he does. He has instilled a servant heart in those around him, leading by example with his humility, generosity, and unwavering faith. His sense of humor and fantastic laugh are as contagious as his spirit of kindness and service, making him a cherished figure in the community.

Whenever you are at the store or attending community events, it is not uncommon for people to inquire about Alex. His presence is deeply missed and fondly remembered by many, a testament to the impact he has had on their lives. As someone who has spent many years away from Metlakatla, you understand the importance of community and family. Returning home to be near your father, after years of learning, sharing, and giving elsewhere, is a journey that speaks to the enduring bonds of family and the deep roots you share with this incredible man.

Alexander Atkinson, Sr. is not just a man; he is a legacy of love, strength, and community spirit. His life story is a testament to the values he holds dear and the countless lives he has touched. As you reunite with him, the circle of family and community continues to grow stronger, enriched by the wisdom, laughter, and love that Alex brings to all who know him.

December 2, 2024 0

Skyward Dreams: Jaxon’s Journey of Hope and Homecoming

On Annette Island, growing up on the Rez, a young boy named Jaxon was always looking up. The sky, with its boundless possibilities, called to him. His eyes sparkled with dreams far beyond the horizon of his community, yet his heart was firmly rooted in the land of his ancestors.

Growing up on the Rez was both a challenge and a gift. It was a place where tradition was the heartbeat, and stories of resilience echoed through the valleys. Jaxon learned the ways of his people, honoring the past while dreaming of the future. He knew from a young age that he wanted to make a difference, to show his community that the sky wasn’t the limit, but just the beginning.

Jaxon’s fascination with flying began when he saw a small plane glide across the sky. The idea of soaring above the earth, seeing the world from a new perspective, captivated him. He worked hard in school, earning a scholarship to flight school. Leaving the Rez was bittersweet; he carried the hopes and dreams of his family and friends with him.

Flight school was a whirlwind of excitement and challenge. Jaxon immersed himself in his studies, mastering the art of navigation, weather patterns, and the mechanics of flight. He reveled in the diversity of the world, each new place teaching him valuable lessons. Yet, amid the excitement, he never forgot his roots.

Years later, Jaxon returned to the Rez as a seasoned pilot. He brought back not just the knowledge of flying, but stories from across the globe. He shared tales of unity and hope, teaching the children that no dream was too big, and that their heritage was a strength, not a limitation.

Jaxon started a flight program on the Rez, inviting young people to experience the thrill of aviation. He became a mentor, guiding them to see beyond their circumstances. His passion lit a spark, and soon, the Rez was known not just for its rich traditions, but as a place where dreams took flight.

In every journey, Jaxon’s message was clear: no matter where you land, the lessons and values of home will always guide you. He proved that with purpose and determination, anyone could reach for the stars and, more importantly, bring that starlight back to illuminate the path for others.

Jaxon’s story was a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of dreams and the importance of giving back. He showed that by walking in the light, you could cast away shadows and make a lasting impact, no matter where your journey began or ended.

October 24, 2024 0

Live with a Passion

“Rooted in Kindness: Clara’s Blooming Legacy”

In a small, sunlit town, there was a woman named Clara. Clara’s passion wasn’t rooted in grandiose dreams or lofty ambitions, but in the simple yet profound joy of connecting with her community. Every morning, she’d rise with the dawn, her heart alight with purpose.

Clara’s garden was her sanctuary. She tended to it with care, growing vibrant vegetables and fragrant flowers. Her passion for gardening was more than a hobby; it was her way of giving back. On weekends, she’d host free gardening workshops, teaching neighbors how to cultivate their own patches of green. The town’s once-barren yards soon blossomed into a tapestry of colors, a testament to Clara’s quiet, steadfast influence.

Her kitchen became a hub of activity. Clara’s cooking, inspired by the garden’s yield, brought people together. She organized community dinners, where laughter mingled with the aroma of home-cooked meals. These gatherings were more than just meals; they were a celebration of unity, each plate a canvas of Clara’s love.

But it wasn’t just her green thumb or culinary skills that made Clara special. It was her unwavering belief in the power of kindness. She volunteered at the local school, helping kids with their homework, teaching them the values of empathy and cooperation. She was the listening ear for anyone who needed to talk, the reassuring presence in times of trouble.

One year, the town faced a harsh winter. Supplies ran low, and spirits dipped. Clara didn’t falter. She rallied the community, organizing drives to collect food and warm clothing. Her passion for making a difference ignited a spark in others. Together, they created a support network that ensured no one went without.

Years passed, and Clara’s influence grew like the roots of her cherished plants, deep and enduring. The town thrived, not just because of the gardens or the shared meals, but because of the sense of belonging she fostered. Clara’s life was a testament to the impact of living with passion, demonstrating that even the smallest acts of kindness could reverberate, making the world a warmer, more beautiful place.

In the end, Clara didn’t just live; she inspired those around her to live passionately, to embrace their own potential for making a positive impact. And in that small, sunlit town, her legacy of love and community lived on, a bright thread woven into the fabric of their lives.

October 23, 2024 0

Running on EMPTY

In a bustling city filled with the constant hum of life, there was a man named Theo. He was a hard worker, always the first to arrive at the office and the last to leave. His colleagues admired his dedication, but they didn’t see the weariness in his eyes or the heaviness in his steps as he walked home each night.

Theo felt like he was running on empty. His days were a blur of meetings, reports, and deadlines. He had forgotten the last time he had stopped to enjoy a moment for himself. The vibrant city around him felt dull and colorless, and his own dreams seemed to have faded into the background.

One evening, as Theo trudged home, he took a different path through the park. The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the trees and the grass. He saw a young girl chasing bubbles, her laughter ringing clear and true. Watching her, something stirred within Theo—a memory of simpler times, of joy and wonder.

He sat on a bench, taking a deep breath for the first time in what felt like forever. He watched the world go by: couples walking hand-in-hand, dogs chasing after frisbees, and the sky turning from orange to pink to a deep twilight blue.

Theo realized that he had been so focused on running the race that he had forgotten to enjoy the journey. He decided then and there to make a change. He would find balance in his life, make time for the things that brought him joy, and reconnect with the dreams he had set aside.

The next day, Theo didn’t go to work. Instead, he spent the day exploring the city, visiting the art museum he had always passed by, and enjoying a leisurely lunch at a café with a view of the river. He felt like he was filling up again, with energy, with color, with life.

From that day on, Theo made sure to take a moment each day to just be—to listen, to observe, to live. He was no longer running on empty; he was savoring each step, each breath, each moment.

And so, Theo’s story reminds us that it’s okay to step off the treadmill of life sometimes. It’s not just about refueling but about remembering to live a life filled with moments that matter, moments that remind us we’re not just running, we’re living.

SO – WHAT CAN I DO?

Finding balance in life is a personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. However, here are some general steps that might help you find your equilibrium:

Reflect on Your Values: Identify what truly matters to you. What are your core values? What brings you joy and fulfillment? Aligning your daily activities with these can lead to a more balanced life.
Set Boundaries: Learn to say no. It’s important to set boundaries for work, social engagements, and even family demands. This helps prevent overcommitment and allows you to dedicate time to different areas of your life.
Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for yourself. Whether it’s exercise, meditation, reading, or just quiet contemplation, self-care is crucial for mental and physical well-being.
Manage Your Time: Organize your schedule to ensure you’re not spending too much time on one aspect of your life. Use tools like calendars and to-do lists to help manage your time more effectively.
Seek Fulfillment, Not Perfection: Perfection can be an exhausting and unattainable goal. Aim for fulfillment instead, which is more about feeling satisfied with your achievements and state of being.
Connect with Others: Build strong relationships with family and friends. Social connections can provide emotional support and help you navigate through life’s ups and downs.
Embrace Flexibility: Life is unpredictable. Being flexible allows you to adapt to changing circumstances and maintain balance even when things don’t go as planned.
Find Joy in the Little Things: Sometimes, it’s the small moments that bring the most happiness. Take time to appreciate the little things in life.

Remember, balance doesn’t mean equal time for each aspect of life; it’s about finding the right mix that works for you and allows you to feel content and fulfilled.

June 17, 2024 0

From Darkness to Light: Overcoming a Near Death Experience

From darkness to light: a short story of overcoming a near death experience

In the heart of the city, where the lights never dimmed and the noise never ceased, there lived a man named Theo. His life was a constant rush, a blur of meetings and deadlines. Until one fateful evening, when a sudden accident brought his world to a screeching halt.

Theo found himself in a hospital bed, surrounded by beeping machines and sterile white walls. The doctors spoke in hushed tones, their words a mix of hope and caution. Theo, trapped in the limbo between life and death, could only listen.

Days turned into nights, and Theo’s mind wandered the shadowy corridors of his thoughts. He revisited old memories, relived lost moments, and faced the regrets he had buried deep within. It was in this darkness that Theo encountered his own vulnerability, his mortality staring back at him with unblinking eyes.

But it was also in this darkness that a spark ignited. A desire to live, to experience the world in all its hues, began to grow. Theo realized that life was not just about the rush but about the moments that take your breath away, the quiet joys, and the love that binds us all.

With each passing day, Theo’s body healed, and so did his spirit. He made promises to himself – to slow down, to cherish, to connect. And when he finally stepped out of the hospital, it was not just into the light of the sun but into the light of a new beginning.

Theo’s near-death experience became a catalyst for transformation. He volunteered, he traveled, he loved. And in every person he met, he saw reflections of his own journey from darkness to light.

Theo’s story spread, touching hearts and inspiring souls. It served as a reminder that sometimes, it takes facing our end to truly begin living. And that even in our darkest moments, there is always a path to the light.

June 15, 2024 0