foreign. yet familiar.

we flew across the sea. uncertain of what we would experience on the opposite shore. remembering that uncertainty characterizes this journey. and joy evolves from openness amidsdt it. we were greeted by dancers. singing songs of welcome. of friendship. in a language foreign. yet familiar. we marveled at silent structures. abandoned not so long ago. we wandered city streets. of tall brightly coloured concrete. in some strange country. we embarked on a rocky path. through jagged mountains. and narrow valleys. in search of new adventures.

we were warmly greeted and showered with hospitality. by friends old and new. a common language of siberian yupik that both youth and elders embraced. a communication beyond language when no words could be found. incessant games of tag and endless merry go round rides. bottomless cups of tea and tables spread with delicious native foods. hikes up rocky mountain sides and along stony sea shores. rowing expeditions of teamwork and strength. celebrations of culture through drumming and dancing. bonds that transcend borders and recognize unity.

and our perspective has changed. our world is different now. and these new places. these new people. that our paths have crossed with. will always be a part of who we are. and these moments of exploration. of discovery. of insight. of growth. follow us. to the places that are familiar. to the places that are foreign. to wherever else our feet are insipired to go.