Time Marches On

Embracing the Past, Navigating the Present, and Looking Forward: A Journey Through Time in Metlakatla

In the quiet town of Metlakatla, nestled in the stunning wilderness of southeast Alaska, time seemed to move at a gentler pace. Yet, even here, the unrelenting march of time was evident in every nook and cranny. Olivia, a resident of Metlakatla for over six decades, often reflected on this unstoppable force.

When Olivia was a child, Metlakatla was a tapestry of vibrant fields and bustling markets. The old clock tower, standing tall in the town square, chimed every hour, a constant reminder that moments were fleeting. As a young girl, Olivia marveled at the world around her, unaware that the seasons of her life would turn just as predictably as the Earth orbited the sun.

Decades passed, and the once familiar sights of her youth began to transform. The wooden bridge she used to cross on her way to school was replaced with a sturdy steel structure. The small bakery on Elm Street, where the sweet scent of freshly baked bread once wafted through the air, had become a modern café, its charm altered but not entirely lost. In these changes, Olivia saw a reflection of her own life. She aged, her youthful energy giving way to a more measured grace.

Time had touched Olivia gently, painting her hair with strokes of silver and etching fine lines around her eyes. She felt the evidence of aging in her bones, and saw it in the mirror, yet there was an ageless spirit within her that often took her by surprise. Despite the years that had passed, she frequently found herself feeling like the same inquisitive girl who had once roamed the meadows with wide-eyed wonder.

As she walked through Metlakatla, now accompanied by her grandchildren, Olivia realized that while everything around her had evolved, the essence of those things remained the same. The fields were still green, though perhaps more cultivated, and the markets still bustled, though with different faces. The constants in life had merely taken on new forms, much like herself.

“How do we handle the fact that time marches on, with or without us?” Olivia pondered aloud one day while sitting on a park bench, watching her grandchildren play. She concluded that accepting the passage of time meant embracing change while cherishing the core of what remains timeless. It was about acknowledging the beauty in growth and the value of memories.

In the end, Olivia found peace in the understanding that time’s march was a journey, not just for her but for everything and everyone around her. She carried the past with her, not as a burden but as a treasured companion, helping her navigate the present and look forward to the future, one step at a time.

January 15, 2025 0

Guided by Grace: William Duncan and the Creation of a Christian Community

From England to Metlakatla: A Mission of Love and Learning

William Duncan was an English-born Anglican missionary who made a significant impact on the Tsimshian people of British Columbia and Alaska. Born on April 3, 1832, in Yorkshire, England, Duncan joined the Church Missionary Society (CMS) in 1854 and was sent to the North Pacific coast of Canada in 18561.

Upon his arrival at Fort Simpson (now Lax Kw’alaams) in 1857, Duncan immersed himself in the Tsimshian culture, learning their language and spiritual practices. He quickly gained the trust of the Tsimshian people by drawing connections between their beliefs and stories from the Bible2. Duncan’s dedication to the Tsimshian led him to establish a new Christian community called Metlakatla in 1862.

Metlakatla, meaning “New Town,” was founded as a utopian Christian community where Duncan aimed to protect his followers from the negative influences of the Hudson’s Bay Company fort atmosphere. The community grew rapidly, and by the end of the summer of 1862, several hundred Tsimshians had joined Duncan1. The village became known for its neat, white wooden structures, reflecting Duncan’s vision of a “civilized” Christian society.

Duncan’s influence extended beyond religious teachings; he taught the Tsimshian how to be self-governing, build, create, and sustain their community. His teachings were evident in the Victorian-style homes, office buildings, community buildings, and churches constructed from local wood1. Duncan’s respect for the Tsimshian culture and his efforts to learn their language and traditions earned him a lasting legacy in both Canada and Alaska.

William Duncan’s story is a testament to his dedication to the Tsimshian people and his desire to honor their culture while introducing them to Christianity. His impact on the community and the region continues to be remembered and celebrated to this day2.

Here is a Summary of William Duncan:

William Duncan was an English Anglican missionary who arrived in Canada to preach the gospel to the Tsimshian people. He fell in love with their culture and language, dedicating himself to learning and respecting their traditions. In 1862, he established a Christian community in Metlakatla, British Columbia. Duncan taught the Tsimshian self-governance, building techniques, and sustainable living, integrating Victorian influences into their structures. His approach was not to dominate but to honor the Tsimshian heritage. His legacy extends to Alaska, where his work is remembered for significantly impacting the local culture and community.

December 31, 2024 0

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

The Threads of Hope

Title: “Threads of Hope”

In the heart of Eastwood Heights, where the paint peeled from aging houses and the streets whispered forgotten dreams, there existed a struggling community. The residents—each with their own burdens—wove a fragile tapestry of survival.

The Weaver’s Daughter: Young Eliza, daughter of the neighborhood weaver, knew every thread that bound them together. Her father’s loom clacked rhythmically, creating blankets to warm the shivering, scarves to shield against biting winds. Eliza watched, her fingers itching to join the dance of warp and weft.
The Empty Lot: At the center of Eastwood stood an empty lot—a barren canvas yearning for purpose. The elders remembered when it bloomed with tulips and laughter. Now, it harbored weeds and secrets. Eliza vowed to change that.
The Gathering: Eliza rallied her friends: Miguel, the retired baker with a heart as warm as his oven; Mrs. Patel, who tended the community garden; and Jake, the graffiti artist who painted hope on crumbling walls. They met in the lot, their breath visible in the chill.
The Vision: “We’ll create a mosaic,” Eliza declared. Broken tiles, discarded glass, and shards of memories would form a mural—a testament to resilience. Each piece represented a neighbor’s struggle: the single mother, the war veteran, the immigrant seeking refuge.
The Broken Pieces: They scavenged. Eliza found a blue shard—the color of forgotten skies. Miguel contributed a fragment of a bread bowl, symbolizing sustenance. Mrs. Patel added a cracked teacup—a reminder of shared stories.
The Assembling: Eliza’s hands trembled as she arranged the pieces. Jake’s spray cans transformed the lot’s walls into a canvas of hope. The mosaic grew—a phoenix rising from despair. Neighbors watched, curiosity sparking in their eyes.
The Unveiling: On a frost-kissed morning, they gathered. Eliza pulled the tarp away, revealing their creation. Gasps echoed. Tears flowed. The mosaic told their story—the struggle, the unity, the beauty in brokenness.
The Threads of Connection: Neighbors shared stories: the widow who found solace in the mosaic’s colors, the troubled teen who traced its lines, and the homeless man who slept beside it. The lot transformed—a place of healing, laughter, and whispered dreams.
The Legacy: Eliza’s father wove a new blanket—one that bore the mosaic’s pattern. It wrapped around the community, warming hearts. Eastwood Heights was no longer struggling; it was thriving, stitched together by threads of hope.

And so, in the quiet corners of Eastwood, where resilience bloomed like wildflowers through cracks in the pavement, they found strength. Their mosaic stood as a testament: a struggling community could weave beauty from brokenness.

June 21, 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

The Old Oak Tree

“The Old Oak Tree”

Once upon a time, in a small village nestled among rolling hills, there stood an ancient oak tree. Its gnarled branches reached toward the sky, and its leaves whispered secrets to the wind. The villagers believed that the tree held the memories of generations past, and they often gathered beneath its shade to share stories.

Every year, on Father’s Day, families would come to the old oak tree. They brought picnic baskets filled with sandwiches, fruit, and homemade cookies. Children played tag around its trunk, their laughter echoing through the meadow. Fathers sat on the grass, their faces weathered but kind, reminiscing about their own fathers and grandfathers.

One Father’s Day, a young boy named Liam sat cross-legged at the base of the oak tree. His father, Thomas, sat beside him, a twinkle in his eye. Thomas had always been a man of few words, but his love for Liam was evident in the way he tousled his son’s hair and smiled.

“Liam,” Thomas said, “do you know why we come here every year?”

Liam shook his head, curious.

“This tree,” Thomas began, tapping the rough bark, “has seen countless Father’s Days. It has witnessed joy and sorrow, laughter and tears. And it remembers.”

Liam frowned. “Remembers what, Dad?”

“Stories,” Thomas replied. “Stories of fathers who taught their children to ride bicycles, stories of bedtime tales whispered in the dark, stories of sacrifices made for love.”

Liam leaned against the tree, closing his eyes. He imagined the generations before him—strong men with calloused hands, gentle souls who held their children close. He wondered about the stories they’d shared, the lessons passed down like heirlooms.

“Tell me a story, Dad,” Liam said.

Thomas chuckled. “All right. Once, when I was your age, my father brought me here. He told me about the time he climbed this very tree to rescue a stranded kitten. He said it was the bravest thing he’d ever done.”

Liam’s eyes widened. “Did you climb it too?”

Thomas nodded. “I did. And you know what? That kitten grew up to be the best mouser in the village.”

They laughed together, the sound blending with the rustle of leaves. Liam felt a connection—a thread that tied him to his father, his grandfather, and all the fathers who had come before.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the meadow, Liam whispered to the old oak tree, “Thank you for remembering.”

And the tree seemed to nod, its branches swaying gently.

And so, in that quiet village, Father’s Day became more than just a date on the calendar. It became a celebration of love, memories, and the timeless bond between fathers and their children.

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there! 🌳

June 16, 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