A night of awesomeness!
One of the volunteers that has been here for 2 years is getting ready to depart the Gold Rush City. Jesse Zink will be moving on in his life of service to Mthatha, South Africa to work in a clinic through the Episcopal. In turn, the city of Nome has really been impacted by this person, so they threw a Family Fun Night with games, free food and drinks, as well as Native Eskimo Game competitions and a dance competition.
I did arrive late since I was at a 'stamp party' making cards for a local church.
Upon arrival I was able to participate in the suitcase race where you run and put all the clothes on in the suitcase, run back to your line, clap three times, and then the next person puts on all the clothes and has to run back and put all the clothes back. It did take forever, but it was hilarous to see a grown man wear a onesie nighty and other various items.
There was also a person returning from Eskimo games that placed very highly I am sure in the womans high kick.
So she demonstrated and we all got in line. You jump off both feet, kick the ball with one foot and have to land on the foot you kicked with showing balance. I have to admit my cheerleading skills came into play here. I did win a knife for willing in the women's category! I am a kicking champion!Pictures are coming I promise!
Last but not least there was a DANCE COMPETITION. I am not about to sit out for that.
There where 4 songs to qualify for the final round, I won the round with the Electric Slide... I know, I am awesome.
So the LAST dance was a 'freestyle', uuuhh ohhh... I had no idea what to do. Then it came on... Grease. Any female that has been to sleepovers knows this music.
So, what is a girl to do? Break out the dance that everyone MADE you learn for hours at slumber parties.
In the end of 'Summer Lovin'' Jesse and I collaborated, and I was, yes, Olivia Newton John.
We, won! First prize? Split $100 in dollar coins. Yes, I am not only a Eskimo high kick winner for the Nome Family Fun Night/JesseFest but a dance champion.... only in Nome can I win a dance contest.
I owe it all to passion, yes kids. Dream and you too one day will win a dance contest.
Follow your dreams....
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Culture Shock?
I do not know if I was just mentally prepared or what but I have not had a hard time adjusting to the cultures up here. More often then not I do find myself with people from the Lower 48. However, my church is the exact opposite.
With a pastor originally from Korea and a 99% of the congregation native I have found myself the minority when it comes to worship. I am learning that in many cultures there are many ways to praise our Father, as I knew before but had not really experinced first hand. I knew there where traditional and contemporary services, but seeing people dance in dedication to Jesus was a very enlightening experience. There was a woman who sang Kumbya (I cannot spell). To most people in the Lower 48 this would make their eyes roll. Wait, this woman got out of her seat during the service and wanted to sing it.
She began in English then went into Yu'pik, she cried while she sang and told the congregation that she was crying out much like the slaves had, for mercy for her people. Asking God to have mercy on them. She has it, why can't that be shared?
So that, really got me... it was not culture shock... but spiritual shock.
It does worry me when people are not as open minded when it comes to alternative views and means of worship. For that woman at that moment, let me into her spiritual connection with the father. In her language in her way. Why is that not ok?
Some people do not accept worshiping in alternate languages that once might have worshiped another God or multiple Gods. I have news for you...
People lost in the desert spoke a language that is holy... and some worshiped idols while they lost faith in God. Does that make it an 'unclean language'?
People make assumptions about others and their culture solely based on their own experiences. Open your world, stale air can really get you down.
Give yourself a spiritual shock, visit a culture different then your own, you may find something about yourself that you never new before.
With a pastor originally from Korea and a 99% of the congregation native I have found myself the minority when it comes to worship. I am learning that in many cultures there are many ways to praise our Father, as I knew before but had not really experinced first hand. I knew there where traditional and contemporary services, but seeing people dance in dedication to Jesus was a very enlightening experience. There was a woman who sang Kumbya (I cannot spell). To most people in the Lower 48 this would make their eyes roll. Wait, this woman got out of her seat during the service and wanted to sing it.
She began in English then went into Yu'pik, she cried while she sang and told the congregation that she was crying out much like the slaves had, for mercy for her people. Asking God to have mercy on them. She has it, why can't that be shared?
So that, really got me... it was not culture shock... but spiritual shock.
It does worry me when people are not as open minded when it comes to alternative views and means of worship. For that woman at that moment, let me into her spiritual connection with the father. In her language in her way. Why is that not ok?
Some people do not accept worshiping in alternate languages that once might have worshiped another God or multiple Gods. I have news for you...
People lost in the desert spoke a language that is holy... and some worshiped idols while they lost faith in God. Does that make it an 'unclean language'?
People make assumptions about others and their culture solely based on their own experiences. Open your world, stale air can really get you down.
Give yourself a spiritual shock, visit a culture different then your own, you may find something about yourself that you never new before.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Weather Update
For about a week the temperature was getting about 70 degrees every day and the sun was shinning and was daunting for those of us that had to work the next day, inside of course.
It was not too bad since the post office and all amenities are all within walking distance so it makes pleasant errand runs during my lunch break.
I can tell the difference between the evening sun and the sunlight before the summer solstice. Life is getting easier when it comes to sleep since it is getting a little darker. I am sure the overcast clouds help as well.
I have found a church here in Nome- Nome Presbyterian USA and the Rev. is from Korea where my older brother is headed off to soon to teach English. My parents have me here in Alaska and my older brother in Korea... I guess they do not have to worry about breaks and fridge raids! My little brother is a sophomore in college so he gets the house to himself. That and really neat places to visit.
I have passed some great time reading up here. I have steamed through Courage and Calling, First Person Plural and now I am in Mere Christianity and Crossing Cultures.
One small fact: If people are unable to sleep with the midnight sun they put foil over their windows- this prevents any light from coming in. Yes it can be depressing and dark but just open your hall door and the light shines right on in.
Also, one of my roommates just left after his year of service and is headed back to Philly and will be greatly missed. He is a great music director and I wish him the best of luck.
It was not too bad since the post office and all amenities are all within walking distance so it makes pleasant errand runs during my lunch break.
I can tell the difference between the evening sun and the sunlight before the summer solstice. Life is getting easier when it comes to sleep since it is getting a little darker. I am sure the overcast clouds help as well.
I have found a church here in Nome- Nome Presbyterian USA and the Rev. is from Korea where my older brother is headed off to soon to teach English. My parents have me here in Alaska and my older brother in Korea... I guess they do not have to worry about breaks and fridge raids! My little brother is a sophomore in college so he gets the house to himself. That and really neat places to visit.
I have passed some great time reading up here. I have steamed through Courage and Calling, First Person Plural and now I am in Mere Christianity and Crossing Cultures.
One small fact: If people are unable to sleep with the midnight sun they put foil over their windows- this prevents any light from coming in. Yes it can be depressing and dark but just open your hall door and the light shines right on in.
Also, one of my roommates just left after his year of service and is headed back to Philly and will be greatly missed. He is a great music director and I wish him the best of luck.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Remember when you entered the door...
I am going to rant a little because I can.
I am despised when people believe that they alone in their church can bring others to Christ.
When people are excited about their church the experience is that much more special and touching to them. They open themselves to the Holy Spirit and share their experiences and therefore grow not only with themselves but with others in Christ.
So thank you to a friend’s posted poem I can use the analogy that, some no longer ‘stand by the door.’
I beg you to remember how you felt before God came into your life. I mean when you completely gave up and succumbed to his infinite wisdom and love.
How it felt to never understand how people gave up complete control and let God run their lives or remember the church and it’s place in your life, toxic or wonderfully supportive. There was an effect on your faith and hope in God.
However, some people do take pride in their church and I think that is a good thing- to an extent. When people feel that their single church is capable of transforming the world alone- and only them, we run in a major wall in the Christian community.
Proverbs 11:2
“Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” (NLT)
“When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble comes wisdom.” (ESV)
These are only two translations I understand but what this small verse boils down to shows volumes. The pride we have in our youth programs and our Bible studies means nothing if we are not doing so with humility- not turning others away just because one is Baptist and the other is Nazarene. Feeling that we cannot speak of our Savior because there are different beliefs.
What are you afraid of?
Challenging one another and sharing beliefs not only enhances fellowship and a better understanding of the LORD but is one of the best things you can do for yourself. As humans on earth we where made for community, to hold one another accountable, to seek the Kingdom of the LORD with each other. We cannot do this alone.
So why are our churches feeling that they can do it all, alone?
I attended Charlotte One in Charlotte, NC and was moved that over a dozen churches from various denominations gather together Tuesday nights at 7:30 for fellowship. They do so humbly to share in Christ’s fellowship with others.
We all believe in the same thing.
One son conceived by the Holy Spirit.
Born of the Virgin Mary.
Died for us, for our sins, and can never die again. (Romans 6:1-11)
One father that loves us regardless of our past, present, and sinful future.
So what is stopping us from humbling ourselves? We do not have it correct all the time so we need to let the Christian community in. If your church where to fall- would there be another to help pick it up?
We are here to support and feed another. To clothed the bare and to help the sick.
I am reminded again of the quote ‘Churches are not hotels for the staints- but rathers hospitals for the sinners.’
When did we stop feeding the hungry souls the food that they needed?
My food is different from yours. I feed in another way, and love me for it. Love me for the fact that I must discuss and interact to understand. And you, you can learn form merely watching and understanding. Others see elders and loved ones and feel passion and accept Christ. Others have a rough road ahead and must experience more tragedy and pain to realize.
Understand God made all of us.
We are ONE church in Christ together, and if we take away our pride and stand by the door together, maybe, just maybe, more would see the beauty of the kingdom.
Biblical Inspiration:
Romans 6
Romans 12
Proverbs 11
Proverbs 18:12
I am despised when people believe that they alone in their church can bring others to Christ.
When people are excited about their church the experience is that much more special and touching to them. They open themselves to the Holy Spirit and share their experiences and therefore grow not only with themselves but with others in Christ.
So thank you to a friend’s posted poem I can use the analogy that, some no longer ‘stand by the door.’
I beg you to remember how you felt before God came into your life. I mean when you completely gave up and succumbed to his infinite wisdom and love.
How it felt to never understand how people gave up complete control and let God run their lives or remember the church and it’s place in your life, toxic or wonderfully supportive. There was an effect on your faith and hope in God.
However, some people do take pride in their church and I think that is a good thing- to an extent. When people feel that their single church is capable of transforming the world alone- and only them, we run in a major wall in the Christian community.
Proverbs 11:2
“Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” (NLT)
“When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble comes wisdom.” (ESV)
These are only two translations I understand but what this small verse boils down to shows volumes. The pride we have in our youth programs and our Bible studies means nothing if we are not doing so with humility- not turning others away just because one is Baptist and the other is Nazarene. Feeling that we cannot speak of our Savior because there are different beliefs.
What are you afraid of?
Challenging one another and sharing beliefs not only enhances fellowship and a better understanding of the LORD but is one of the best things you can do for yourself. As humans on earth we where made for community, to hold one another accountable, to seek the Kingdom of the LORD with each other. We cannot do this alone.
So why are our churches feeling that they can do it all, alone?
I attended Charlotte One in Charlotte, NC and was moved that over a dozen churches from various denominations gather together Tuesday nights at 7:30 for fellowship. They do so humbly to share in Christ’s fellowship with others.
We all believe in the same thing.
One son conceived by the Holy Spirit.
Born of the Virgin Mary.
Died for us, for our sins, and can never die again. (Romans 6:1-11)
One father that loves us regardless of our past, present, and sinful future.
So what is stopping us from humbling ourselves? We do not have it correct all the time so we need to let the Christian community in. If your church where to fall- would there be another to help pick it up?
We are here to support and feed another. To clothed the bare and to help the sick.
I am reminded again of the quote ‘Churches are not hotels for the staints- but rathers hospitals for the sinners.’
When did we stop feeding the hungry souls the food that they needed?
My food is different from yours. I feed in another way, and love me for it. Love me for the fact that I must discuss and interact to understand. And you, you can learn form merely watching and understanding. Others see elders and loved ones and feel passion and accept Christ. Others have a rough road ahead and must experience more tragedy and pain to realize.
Understand God made all of us.
We are ONE church in Christ together, and if we take away our pride and stand by the door together, maybe, just maybe, more would see the beauty of the kingdom.
Biblical Inspiration:
Romans 6
Romans 12
Proverbs 11
Proverbs 18:12
Good people are guided by their honesty; trecherous people are destroyed by their dishonesty.
Proverbs 11:3
If you did not believe in Global warming come up to Alaska.
I was unsure about many things involving the planet warming up.
The permafrost in many places in Alaska is melting. There are entire villages that are needing to be relocated. Talk to people that are directly affected.
For more information on this issue visit my roommate's blog who is the News Reporter for KNOM.
nomeak.blogspot.com
Saturday, July 7, 2007
Midnight Sun/ City Claustrophobia
The midnight sun is beginning to have an impact on my sleep. My body sees how nice and amazing it is outside and my brain tells me that midnight is already late enough to be heading to bed with a full day of work ahead. The ability to go on a walk at midnight is so freeing.
I was thinking about how odd it would be already to go driving on a highway, walk in a mall, or sit at a busy restaurant. With the gorgeous tundra to my left and the open sea to my right this place makes you feel like you are cannot be contained. No wonder people fall in love with the 'Last Frontier.'
Everything just goes on into endless beauty.
There are no city buildings blocking a landscape or a highway preventing you from seeing the open land.
This is a whole different place entirely.
If anyone is interested in coming to visit me feel free to email me. Remember though, there are sometimes when people cannot really travel in, and sometimes are better than others for prices. I would imagine the Iditarod is probably not the cheapest time to visit Nome...
I was thinking about how odd it would be already to go driving on a highway, walk in a mall, or sit at a busy restaurant. With the gorgeous tundra to my left and the open sea to my right this place makes you feel like you are cannot be contained. No wonder people fall in love with the 'Last Frontier.'
Everything just goes on into endless beauty.
There are no city buildings blocking a landscape or a highway preventing you from seeing the open land.
This is a whole different place entirely.
If anyone is interested in coming to visit me feel free to email me. Remember though, there are sometimes when people cannot really travel in, and sometimes are better than others for prices. I would imagine the Iditarod is probably not the cheapest time to visit Nome...
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Nome Life/HOTLINES
I am getting into the groove of daily Nome life. Taking walks on the beach at night, since it is light outside, and in general exploring the town itself.
There is problem with alcohol in this area and it is apparent at night on the seawall. Many people here suffer through severe hardships, and I am reminded why KNOM has the mission that it does.
It remains to be important to serve the communities in western Alaska. The demographic here is like none other. There are people that do not speak English so that does make communication difficult sometimes. I have to remember that when I am broadcasting so I do not talk to fast... as you can imagine I am trying!
KNOM has something called HOTLINES everyday at 12:15 pm and 5:15 pm. This is a way to communicate with people in areas that may not have a phone or even electricity. Maybe people are out hunting or fishing and are 100 miles from a phone. People can call KNOM and send a message to someone and we will broadcast it over the airwaves.
This is important in this area since many do not have means of communication any other way. Sure there is mail, but that is no quick venture.
If you have seen Northern Exposure, you know what I am talking about.
We will have people call telling their loved ones that grandma is in the hospital and to call as soon as they are able. Connecting people, this job is awesome.
Village hotlines. All they have to do is call.
There is problem with alcohol in this area and it is apparent at night on the seawall. Many people here suffer through severe hardships, and I am reminded why KNOM has the mission that it does.
It remains to be important to serve the communities in western Alaska. The demographic here is like none other. There are people that do not speak English so that does make communication difficult sometimes. I have to remember that when I am broadcasting so I do not talk to fast... as you can imagine I am trying!
KNOM has something called HOTLINES everyday at 12:15 pm and 5:15 pm. This is a way to communicate with people in areas that may not have a phone or even electricity. Maybe people are out hunting or fishing and are 100 miles from a phone. People can call KNOM and send a message to someone and we will broadcast it over the airwaves.
This is important in this area since many do not have means of communication any other way. Sure there is mail, but that is no quick venture.
If you have seen Northern Exposure, you know what I am talking about.
We will have people call telling their loved ones that grandma is in the hospital and to call as soon as they are able. Connecting people, this job is awesome.
Village hotlines. All they have to do is call.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Warming Up!
It has really warmed up since yesterday! Today the tempurature is 69! That is so refreshing to me, being from south Texas of course.
I just might so swimming since it is almost 30 degrees warmer then when I participated in the Polar Bear Swim two weeks ago.
I have completed offcial training at KNOM, but I have not learned everthing! There is just too much to take in.
Production is a blast though, I am loving having all of this creative freedom.
I create 30 to 90 second spots about everything from cocaine to 'how to become a pilot'. Alas, an attention deficit person's dream... If I get bored, I just switch subjects. There is so much to do and learn.
The culture up here is an interesting experince.
Tomorrow is the 4th of July! :)
There is a parade and games downtown. I wish I had stilts for the stilt walking race... :)
I think I would break something... and you all know that is the truth! My middle name is not Grace for nothing!
I just might so swimming since it is almost 30 degrees warmer then when I participated in the Polar Bear Swim two weeks ago.
I have completed offcial training at KNOM, but I have not learned everthing! There is just too much to take in.
Production is a blast though, I am loving having all of this creative freedom.
I create 30 to 90 second spots about everything from cocaine to 'how to become a pilot'. Alas, an attention deficit person's dream... If I get bored, I just switch subjects. There is so much to do and learn.
The culture up here is an interesting experince.
Tomorrow is the 4th of July! :)
There is a parade and games downtown. I wish I had stilts for the stilt walking race... :)
I think I would break something... and you all know that is the truth! My middle name is not Grace for nothing!
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