Archive for Environment

QIB – “Great Silent Places”

There is much to offer those who understand the language of the “great silent places

- Harry Karstens
Denali National Park Ranger

This is the second QIB, or Quote Inspired Blog. For the last two weeks of my summer vacation, I spent time touring the southeastern coast of Alaska with my family. We spent the first night in Anchorage, and moved around the Kenai Pensula, staying in various towns and lodges and going to Talkeetna. We ended the trip with a week stay in the (very) remote back country lodge in the heart of Denali National Park.

I have been to many national parks before, but this park was something quite different. Although, I admit, that it wasn’t the most esthetic part (at least this was my first impression), there was something specular about it. Note – only later did I really see Mount McKinley (Denali), the “Great One”; the largest peak in North America. Now, that was awe-inspiring!

Anyway, this quote (above) was written on the wall of the visitor center. I felt that it was such an eloquent way to say how people can learn so much from the environment and vast wilderness that surrounds us.
I was reminded how small I am. Being in millions of acres of wide open wilderness. It makes you think again who (and what) walks this earth. And when I say what, I also mean the many animals (big and small) that resided within the park and outside. We were especially wary of the bears (black and brown) as well as the moose (even more dangerous than the bears!).

Listening to the culture; it is fascinating to think about the native tribes that lived all over Alaska for thousands of years. The history is still alive too! Unlike many of the other native cultures that have more or less been suppressed in the rest of the states, it seems that Alaska (in it’s founding and creation) managed to have at least better relations with the natives and now in modern times, the tribes (twelve strong, with one for all the minor unrepresented ones) have a word in all legislation and state government. Even the peoples of Alaska (non-native) seem more apt to native culture and customs. The last hundred years of history of Alaska, I think are some of the most rich and interesting than many other states in America.

I shall hopefully post some photos of my trip when I finally get the chance to organize them! I have been very busy over the summer, so no posts. But, on another note, I shall be leaving tomorrow for college! I can’t wait! All very exciting, though stressful.

Tags: Environment, Life, Nature, QIB (quote inspired blog)
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