Reflections

Reflections from the Health Fair

From an airplane (or on a map), the island of Wrangell looks like a bird in flight – some would say a “dove.” We all know that a bird needs two strong wings in order to fly. This image inspired the Baha’i booth at the recent Health Fair to pose a question based on the understanding that material and spiritual progress, like two wings of a bird, must be in balance. Those who visited the booth were invited to answer the

question: “What do you think would help make Wrangell a better place?” Twenty-seven feathers were added to the bird. Nine on the material “wing” and eighteen for spiritual. Perhaps this alone tells us something about how we see ourselves?

Although this was a small sample from our overall population, the ideas were interesting. Material improvements listed a more colorful downtown area, preserving the older buildings, more chairs and benches for people to sit, improved internet services that would attract businesses to the community, and more salmon. A new hospital was mentioned, and is already in planning stages. Hot tubs and also baby parks for children age 3 and under were listed. One child wrote to say we need more playgrounds. I forgot to mention my favorite. A bandstand somewhere in the middle of town.

On the spiritual side, individuals encouraged us to “see the good in everyone,” to forgive, practice honesty (apply more of the Teachings of our Faiths), be more loving, be kind (two feathers for this) and respectful. Be tolerant and open-minded; make the effort to learn about each other. Take time for prayer, and to rest. Three different feathers suggested to “see the awesomeness around us, people and nature;” “put down your cell phone and look up at the sky;” “turn off cell phone, T.V., the Internet and enjoy Wrangell beauty.” One person suggested a need for help for addicts and ex-cons. One very tender child wanted to see “not for hunting” (not to kill or hurt animals; be kind to them.) Another person wanted to see “less division as a community.” And a junior youth “feathered” about the need for multi-or inter-faith activity, showing greater appreciation and acceptance for all spiritual paths.

The next steps would be to have meaningful conversations and take action on some of these things. One such opportunity will be April 21 from 4 to 7 pm at the elementary school multi-purpose room. Following a taco dinner and 30-minute video, “Light to the World” we will openly explore the question: “Given God’s Teachings, our unique talents and available resources, how can we work together for the good of Wrangell?” Everyone is welcome. Call 907 209 9117 for more information.

Kay Larson, a member of

the Baha’i Community