Down South

A beautiful day in Kristiansand (Photo: Norwegianblogger March 2006)

Last week I was far north, in Kirkenes, almost at the border of Russia. Today I'm in Kristiansand, the capital of the Southern Coast of Norway. My mother's from this part of the country, and I've still a lot of family here. I'm here for my work, but after I arrived yesterday I was able to meet one of my former co-students from Anthropology at the University of Oslo. Meeting another Anthropologist is often like meeting someone from your own tribe. You recognize the language and we're on common ground. We had two - three very interesting hours in a cafe here in Kristiansand.

Up North

Near Kirkenes, Norway March 2006 (Photo: Norwegianblogger)

For three days I've been in Kirkenes, Norway's North-Easternmost city, not far from the North Cape. I've been there for my work and it's been great. I've listened to a lot of stories and conversations from and with the Sami people, the indigenous people of Norway (and Sweden, Finland and parts of Russia). There's a lot to learn, and I love to listen. At the same time, I realize once more that we're first and foremost fellow human beings. There's not really much difference between us, but a people's past and history gives each human being a special gift that comes together in each individual. There's a lot to learn from the indigenous peoples of the world and we need to listen to their wisdom of not thinking about ourselves in isolation from earth and nature. We're all a part of it and we need to respect all that surrounds us.