Epistle of Alaska Youth exchange, Summer 2002

In the beginning there was an airport; and then there was another airport; and then there was another airport. And the Young Friends from Philadelphia Yearly Meeting and the Young Friends from Alaska Friends Conference gathered. And we didst learn about the Quaker Process through meetings and consensus and worshipful committees. And it was good.

We went hiking on Byron Glacier, and enjoyed seeing the Alaskan scenery, We visited two monthly meetings (Anchorage and Fairbanks) and found a deep learning experience in the sharing between different peoples: Friends from Alaska Friends Conference, Friends from Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, Alaska Natives and other Alaskans, finding the light within each person. We also prepared the rustic site and partook in the Alaska Friends Conference Yearly Meeting sessions.

Toward the beginning of the trip we discussed the meaning of spirituality. The general sense was that it was about getting to know one's self. One important part of understanding one's self is recognizing and learning to deal with positive and negative emotions. Another important part of getting to know one's self is having faith that God is within us all, and being able to hear the Spirit within us.

We made lasting friendships and felt like we came to a deeper awareness of ourselves, each other, and God.

Hiking in the Light, Alaska

Youth Exchange