QIB – “Great Silent Places”
August 23, 2011 | 7 CommentsThere 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) | 7 Comments
As someone who’s always lived on the continental US, I know little to nothing about Alaska, so thanks for the post! I like knowing that there are parts of the US that are still awe-inspiring and friendly with the native peoples – because we all know that that culture isn’t really anywhere else! I can’t wait to see photos!
Have you ever read anything by James Michener? He is an author known for writing books about the history of the land using characters based on the typical person that would have resided in a certain land. I believe that he has a book on Alaska that I have not read. His books on Hawaii and Colorado were fantastic, albeit long.
Also, I am using a slightly customized default Twenty Eleven theme, so I have no idea how anything in the comment form works.
[Reply]
Sadly, as a New England girl, I know absolutely nothing about Alaska.
I’d love to go there someday, however, because I’ve heard it’s beautiful. I’d love to see the Northern Lights! :’) They sound so breathtaking.
Good luck going back to college! :)
[Reply]
I’m glad you had a good time. I don’t know that I’m awe-inspired by nature at all, but I do like being awe-inspired. I also love the touch of a good quote.
I didn’t know moose were more dangerous.
It seems the United States learned how to handle the natives of lands after all. :)
Post reguarly about college. We need to hear from you more!
_________________
I’ve been fine. I hope you are too, with college life.
I have been a little busy, finishing up my summer break. I am starting school Tuesday. I plan to change somethings up in my schooling like working standing up instead of sitting down since I work better that way. And different things like that to make everything count these last two years of High School.
You take care too! :)
[Reply]
I absolutely love going to national parks. The culture they encompass is beautiful, and all the natural flora and fauna is always stunning to see. I haven’t been to many, but I love any kind of park or garden or preserved area like that. I hope you post pictures some time in the near future!
There are many ‘great silent places’ and I love that quote because there are so many parts of the world that are closed off to the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and there are often closed spaces which hold some kind of serenity and nostalgia. It’s always surprising and beautiful to come across spaces like that, and it’s true that there is much to offer to those who stop to look.
[Reply]
I love places of great natural beauty. There’s something almost euphoric about pristine national parks that gives me a sense of release that is unparalleled. It really is a humbling feeling like you mentioned.
I have never been to Alaska but it is definitely on my list of places to see before I die. Perhaps Denali National Park now that you’ve suggested it.
I can’t wait to see those photographs if you are able to upload them. It’s one thing writing about places of great beauty but to see it in a photograph can make it that much more powerful.
[Reply]
I like being busy myself. It feels like I’m actually doing something with my days. That’s why I don’t like long summer vacations from school if I’m just staying at home. How is college going?
I think your domain collective looks great! Thanks for telling me about it. :)
I actually hadn’t taken the conversation I had that badly, I just felt like talking about people jabbing at other’s belief in my current post. :) Reading through your reply, I was able to make some changes to my post to make it more clear what I was saying.
Like that was my point about Halloween being on All Hollows Eve. It’s the eve to All Saints Day.
I don’t know how to say this but I’m okay with blatantly saying you don’t like this and this religion, I think the real danger comes when people slyly put in that this and this religion is bogus. Especially when talking to someone who believes the religion.
I don’t know, secretly slighting someone seems much crueler than just saying it to their faces. It’s like backbiting. And it can seriously hurt someone.
[Reply]
I’ve always wanted to go to Alaska, preferably on a cruise from Vancouver. The Aurora Borealis lights must be absolutely beautiful! So must be the fact that you can see Russia from your house. ;) I’d love to see photos.
[Reply]