If you’re like me, you usually only skim these, especially if they’re too long. So, I’ll keep this short.
I
A bit about me: I’m 23 as of Saturday. I grew up in New Jersey and went to my dream school on the East Coast, where I had a series of crises about what I’m supposed to do with my life. For a while, I thought it was medicine; then, I thought it was journalism. Now, I’m still not sure, but I decided to move to Sitka, Alaska, for a yearlong service fellowship. And so, I’m watching clouds embrace mountains as I write this. It’s breathtaking. (On a less flashy note, the university where I work is closing early because roads are too icy. Sitka needs a salt intervention!)
II
November 8 broke my heart. It shattered my dreams. It turned my world upside down. I’m trying really hard to have hope, but I don’t and I can’t. Everything changed. The new normal is an outdated, hateful normal. I’m totally at a loss for words, for thoughts, for actions. I’ve been trying to read and absorb as much as I can about the America that I don’t know, but doing so often raises more questions than it answers.
So, I’m taking a risk here, and asking for some wisdom. If anyone reading this voted for our president-elect and thinks they’re able to have a thoughtful, respectful dialogue via email with me, please shoot me a message that explains your thinking.
III
I’m still freelancing a bit and always looking for more stories to tell. If you have any ideas, especially those pertaining to southeast Alaska, please send me an email!
Peace.
Wesley
Sitka, AK
[email protected]