Oslo tonight

Oslo at 10:30PM June 2, 2006 (Photo: Norwegianblogger)

This was the view from my balcony a few minutes ago. A beautiful night in Oslo! PS: I have my 1 1/2 year anniversary as a blogger today :)

Knopfler and Harris in Oslo

Emmylou Harris & Mark Knopfler in Oslo Spektrum, Norway (Photo: Norwegianblogger May 31, 2006)


Today was the last day for my boss at work. When his neighbor had to cancel, he invited me to join him for a concert in Oslo’s biggest concert hall, Oslo Spektrum. Emmylou Harris and Mark Knopfler tours Europe, and tonight was their night in Oslo. It’s a treat to be able to enjoy two of popular music’s biggest icons. The best moments were when they both joined in, singing ballads.

I'm still amazed by the fact that each person playing a guitar has his or her own "voice" in the playing. Hearing Knopfler play is like listening to a singing guitar. It's heavenly!

“Why worry” with only the two of them, with a keyboardist, on stage was memorable. Mark Knopfler singing "Juliette" was of course fantastic and reminded me of younger days.

It was nice, it was pleasant, but the music didn’t really touch me deeply or move me in a profound way. That might have something to do with the setting. A concert hall with thousands and thousands of spectators isn’t actually like a club or a more intimate setting, but I’m impressed by their professionalism. They both treat the audience like friends, and talk freely between the songs.

A nice evening in Oslo with a lot of gray hair in the audience :) - and I'm in the middle of a concert week of dimensions. Last Sunday Josh Ritter & Isobel Campbell in a club, tonight: Emmylou Harris & Mark Knopfler in a mega-hall and the coming Sunday: Michael Bublé in Oslo Concert Hall (the home-base of the Oslo Philharmonic). I love it!

Songs from the heartlands - Josh Ritter in Oslo

Have you ever heard the voice of America? Yesterday I heard a voice that was able to convey the soul of a country; the joys of the water-towers, the cries of the lonely roads and the desperation of forgotten cities - I heard the voice of the heartlands, the warm embrace of Idaho. Josh Ritter brought America to a little club in Oslo and we were captured by this smiling, friendly guy who was able to transform a group of Norwegians into a smiling, singing bunch of cowboys riding into the sunset. How? - you might ask? Like Bob Dylan, Emmylou Harris, Johnny Cash and Bruce Springsteen, Josh Ritter is able to represent the voices of the silent masses, the pain, joy and desperation of thousands who doesn't have a voice of their own. But it's more than that: This is a man who loves what he does. Give that man a guitar and an audience, and he's in heaven. When he entered the stage to do his last song, he broke it all down - no band, no microphone: only a man and his guitar, his voice and an audience in his hands. It's one of those moments who deserve to be called magical.

Finding my virtual self

Back in the eighties Madonna sang “Living in a material world” – now I guess the chorus could have been “Living in a virtual world – and I am a virtual man.” I’ve been active in cyberspace for awhile, but in some ways my interaction has increased. Much more than before, when the web was more or less a practical tool for finding information or reading news I experience the web to be transforming into a community – a virtual world with rules for communication, acceptable or unacceptable behavior, with bystanders and actors, with environments and places to explore. Most of all I experience the web to be a virtual world where we project an image of who we are OR who we want to be. For me it started with a homepage which was one-sided communication, then I became a blogger and took part in different communities on the web. What started as a presentation of my social anthropological work and a presentation of photos has more and more evolved into the presentation of a virtual self – a person I don’t always understand, but who evolves through interaction at the web. Suddenly I’m communicating with other “projections” from different parts of the world, and I start to wonder: Who are these people? I interact with them, I share thoughts with them and I have fun with them – but it’s all without direct communication with a person of flesh and blood – we’re actually communicating through machines, we’re communicating as projections of who we are or who we want to be. Perhaps it’s the same with a telephone you might say, but this feels really different. As an anthropological explorer I feel like I’m entering the territory of an unknown tribe; A people with a language, with lots of codes, symbols and hidden knowledge, and I’m like a novice trying to find my way, trying to communicate, to seek friendship and relations, to reject when it’s necessary and to open up when the time is right. I’ve done a lot of mistakes, and I’ve been virtually rejected. That’s been a strange experience. Sometimes I’ve “met” virtual people, that has started to enter the category of “virtual friend”, suddenly there is a “virtual code” I’ve broken (probably) and I never hear from them again. They are gone from my virtual world, and I’m left with some questions and the feeling of being rejected without knowing why. I hope to be able to be a better “virtual rejecter” than the method of “virtual disappearance” – this code of behavior seems to be widespread in the virtual world :) . I do think it’s necessary to reject at times though. Sometimes we can’t really meet the expectations that our virtual projections have made in others. Then it’s better to put up “virtual borders” and recommend other communities or “projections”.

I feel like a little baby in this virtual world, and I need to learn the language, I have to listen for advice from “the elders” – I have to find my way, find friends, find communities, find a way to be true to myself in the projection I choose to share in the virtual world. I’ve already found some “elders” here and there who is willing to be mentors in this virtual tribe that I’ve recently entered. I’m still a toddler, but I guess I’ve got some potential to grow up and become a man and maybe one day an elder in this wonderful, scary, interesting VIRTUAL WORLD.

Ryanair confirmation number

Oh what a nightmare. I'm going to London this summer and I bought a ticket through Ryanair. I've done it several times and I've only positive things to say about Ryanair; Efficient, easy and convenient. But there's one thing that has made it difficult lately, namely the need for a confirmation number. I had no problems buying the ticket and everything was OK. Since I ordered the ticket at a place without a printer I thought that this wouldn't be a problem because I will get a confirmation E-mail later on. What happened - I didn't get the confirmation e-mail. I check out their web-page and find a way to change / look at my ticket, but I need the confirmation number to open the page. I search the web and I find I'm not the only one with the same problem. There are lots of hits on the web and some advice as well. I don't succeed in any of them, but then I realize that there might be something in my bank about the confirmation number - and there it is - as the last five numbers in the VISA confirmation number. Oh relief - right away I used it to print my ticket and everything is fine. Of all the answers I found on the web I didn't find this one - so if you're in the same situation: There is hope: Check your bank receipts!

Personality test

I found these personality tests on the web, and I actually found it interesting to try it out. This test was a combination of Emneagram and Jung, and I guess I feel comfortable about the results (maybe it's the image I want to present of myself) - I wonder if these tests are real or if we try to see ourselves in the best light. Perhaps I'll challenge some of my friends to take the test on my behalf - and then compare it to my own results. I suspect those results will be more accurate. So friends out there - if you'd like to - you're welcome to analyze me in this test and send me the results :) That could be fun (or maybe scary?)..... Here are my results; you'll be able to access the test by clicking the link.

Main type	Variant

Take Free Enneagram Personality Test
personality tests by similarminds.com

Enneagram Test Results Type 1 Perfectionism |||||||||||||||| 70% Type 2 Helpfulness |||||||||||||| 60% Type 3 Image Awareness |||||||||| 36% Type 4 Sensitivity |||||| 26% Type 5 Detachment |||||||||||||| 53% Type 6 Anxiety |||| 13% Type 7 Adventurousness |||||||||| 40% Type 8 Aggressiveness |||||||||||| 43% Type 9 Calmness |||||||||||||||||||| 90% Your main type is 9 Your variant is social

Take Free Enneagram Personality Test
personality tests by similarminds.com

Mordor Song Contest

Yesterday Europe was united in front of the TV-screens for the yearly Eurovision Song Contest. In Norway we have a saying that this is the competition everybody loves to hate. I haven't been a big fan of this competition for the last years, but Saturday I was one of the millions in front of a TV - and surprise, surprise: It was fun! Some of the songs were even good! During the show it felt like the Lord of the Rings was on display. Norway's entry was with an angelic girl with three co-musicians, all female singing an elf-song - it was right out of Rivendell. Then Finland entered the stage with the orcs from Mordor singing Hard Rock Hallelujah. Here the comparison with the Lord of the Rings ends: In this competition the orcs won, and millions of Europeans voted for Lordi from Finland which became the winner of it all.

I was back in the town I grew up this weekend, and my mother was really upset about Europeans voting for this band. She wasn't proud of being a European yesterday! The Eurovision certainly has its way to upset and challenge, even in 2006.

I was positively surprised of some songs that I actually liked. Rumania, Russia and Bosnia Herzegovina were among my favorites. Sweden had a great artist in Carola, but I didn't like the song, France had a great song, but the performance didn't rise to the challenge. In Eurovision you could hear everything this year from British Hip-Hop, to German Country-and-Western, Latvian a capella (great!) and a Lithuanian football song (terrible!). A crazy mix of everything and above them all, as the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest: The Orcs from Mordor: Lordi.

Next year in Helsinki!

Celebrating Norway

Impression from the celebration in Asker last year. I'm celebrating in Asker this year as well. (Photo: Norwegianblogger 17th of May 2005)

17th of May is the National Day of Norway, or rather Constitution Day. In 1814 Norway got its own constitution inspired by the ideals of the French and American Revolutions. Tomorrow we will celebrate once more with children's parades, flags and festivities in different parts of the country.

Is there any reason to celebrate nations these days? Isn't that nationalistic and isolationistic? There are a lot of things that could be better in Norway, but we have freedom; freedom to speak our minds, freedom of religion, freedom to go where we want. That's well worth celebrating I think. Tomorrow I will dress up and celebrate living in a democracy where there should be room for every person of any race, ethnicity or background. Let's celebrate, and to you reading this in other parts of the world: If you meet a Norwegian today: You can impress them by congratulating him/her and say: Hipp hurra for 17. Mai!

It's strange to be a blogger :)

I've been a blogger for almost 1 1/2 years now and I am amazed about how it affects me. It's kind of addictive. What is it about blogging that attracts me? Well, it's a way to communicate. Even though I have family and friends there are times that I spend alone. To be able to share thoughts and experiences is nice, and through the blog I've been able to share things with friends and strangers from different parts of the globe. By looking up their blogs I've been inspired, updated on friends and even annoyed by certain postings. I hope my blog could have that effect on others as well. What's strange about being a blogger then? Well - at times you share a lot about who you are and you never know who's going to read it. It's strange, but it's exciting and fun as well. To all my blogger friends out there: WHY DO YOU BLOG? I'd love to hear your answers!

Tropisms and Sarraute

En Bagatell av Nathalie Sarraute, Torshovteatret, Oslo. Photo: Marius E. Hauge, The National Theater, Oslo

It’s been a week filled with great theatre experiences. In 1 ½ week I’ve experienced three plays. All of them were great! Yesterday I went to Torshovteatret to see “En bagatell” ( “A small detail”) by Nathalie Sarraute. Sarraute indicated that the words are the verbal translation of a non-verbal communication. With "tropisms" she referred to inner movements of the mind, which are involuntary and which guide our behaviour. These “tropisms” was the central theme of the play. Jon Øigarden and Mads Ousdal portray to friends trying to come to terms with their relationship. Through the little things, what’s conveyed in intonation or small movements we communicate more than what’s obvious. I laughed out load several times, but then the laughter abruptly stopped. It’s challenging to watch and remember how I myself often interpret these tropisms in the behaviour of people around me. I’m often searching for the hidden meaning behind a smile or the way things are said. Not always of course, but often enough to feel it’s uncomfortable when it’s revealed through a play like this.

The setting for the play is perfect. Torshovteatret is small and intimate and as a spectator you’re in the middle of all the action. Congrats to Torshovteatret for a great choice. I’m hoping for more of Sarraute at the theatre!

Blood Wedding

Yesterday I went to the National Theater to see Federico Garcia Lorces´ fantastic play "Blodbryllup" ("Blood wedding"). This play gave me faith in the power of the theater and in the written word. The stage was totally stripped except for the actors and one chair for each actor. The only effect was the lightning and occasionally a few words on the back wall. There were a lot of pauses and silence in between the dialogue. The storyline is really sad and violent, but the actors played it with dignity and beauty. The mother in the play (Frøydis Armand) impressed me - she didn't only say the words right, but I could sense her pain, sadness and helplessness in small movements and manifested in her body. Nicolai Cleve Broch was the forsaken groom and captured the spirit of the play. If you're here in Oslo in the next days you should definitely run to the National Theatre to get a ticket!

Photo: Erik Berg The National Theater, Oslo

MI III premiere

Thanks to a friend (Per Arne - who won two tickets) I was today able to attend the premiere of Mission Impossible III with Tom Cruise and Philip Seymour Hoffman in the enormous Colosseum Theater here in Oslo. Some local celebrities, a lot of photographers and even some stuntmen (or members from a local bike-club :)) was present, and it was great fun. The real fun started with the movie. Wow, what a ride. It was action, action, action and more action. Within this genre I think the MI movies are among the best. The third movie was no exception. In addition to all the action it was wonderful PR for two cities: Rome and Shanghai - I wouldn't mind going to Shanghai - it's portrayed as a great city in this movie. And Rome - the eternal city - was wonderful in between all the action. Did I like the movie? Yes, it's entertaining and exciting - and that's what an action movie is all about, isn't it? Will I remember it in a couple of years or does the movie convey a message of any sort? Probably not, it's pure entertainment. No more, no less!



Action before the premiere of Mission Impossible III in Colosseum Theater in Oslo (Photo: Norwegianblogger May 2006)

A hidden pearl

There are some great things about getting older – one of them is the freedom to listen to what I want. When I was younger I was sometimes a bit scared of being ridiculed for liking certain kind of music. Now I’m listening to everything. One day it’s Miles Davis, Frank Sinatra or Maria João, the next day it’s Arvo Pärt, Mozart or Shostakovich, Amy Grant, U2, George Michael, The Beatles, Rufus Wainwright, Eva Cassidy, Andrae Crouch or Underworld. Being able to listen to it all on my MP3-player or computer has really revolutionized the way I listen to music. Today I ripped one of my old CD’s that would have embarrassed me fifteen years ago: “Open Road” with Gary Barlow, yes it’s the lead singer of Take That. He was more or less forgotten as soon as the band was history. The album “Open Road” was his debut as a solo-artist. A lot of the album is very ordinary, and some of the songs are really bad, but suddenly there are a couple of songs that are really extraordinary. Especially the title song “Open Road” – it’s a hidden pearl that I’ve listened to every now and then the last years. Sometimes I get a yearning for that song – do you know the feeling? The feeling that certain songs are there to get you through life, to make you go on. Mr. Barlow has given me one of those songs. In the middle of a lot of superficial pop music that soon will be forgotten, I find this little pearl of a song. I can’t imagine what lies behind these lyrics, but here are a few lines of a song that goes beyond a superficial surface:

My life is extraordinary bare,
I fought the fear and chased the pain,
My life doesn’t need to be explained.
I chose to walk this life as one.
Sometimes as I live upon my island,
cut off from emotions and its pain,
that’s when I am tempted by the waters,
the waters that can take me far away,
so I’ll just keep on walking down this open road,
hoping someone somewhere needs me,
so I’ll just keep on walking down this open road.
Talking to the man who knows me,
yes he knows me,
the man is me….

Confronting the past

This morning I was browsing through old things and I found my old journals. Since I was 16 – 17 years old I wrote a journal every day (until I was 30). A few words, but some days I wrote a little bit more. Some years I wrote a lot. I opened one of these books this morning, and I must admit I was surprised of what I read. I’m puzzled by the person that shines through in this book. What a self-righteous, fundamentalist, scary person, but at the same time vulnerable and emotional. At one side touched by God’s love and power, at the other side using spirituality to control and as a crutch so that I wouldn’t have to make my own decisions.
Was that really who I was? YES, and meeting my past through my own writing makes me uncomfortable, but at the same humble. It’s so easy to blame others for what was wrong in my life, but for the last 10 – 15 years I’ve been aware of the fact that I was responsible for my life, not others. I’m impressed by some of the people that met me with so much grace.

I’m mostly happy about where I am today, but reading those words from my past makes me realize that I always have to struggle to become a better man. Not running away from my mistakes and wrongdoings and the lack of grace and love in my personality, but struggling to improve and telling the world that this is who I am - a person worth loving, but also with weaknesses - in need of love, but most of all: in need of grace!

Freedom of the Seas in Oslo

Freedom of the Seas leaving Oslo (Photo: Norwegianblogger April 2006)

I was able to catch a glimpse of the world's biggest cruise-ship Freedom of the Seas when it was leaving Oslo this week. It was an impressive sight. Last year I saw Queen Mary II here in Oslo, which was the biggest ship last year. Where is this gigantomania going to end? I like the ships though. By the way, on my way home I saw former Prime Minister of Norway, Kåre Willoch in the Underground station. It's great to live in a country where we're still able to meet politicans at the bus or in the U-station.

Spring - New life

"Blåveis" in Asker, Norway (Photo: Norwegianblogger April 2006)

Today it's raining and it's cold, but yesterday was a great day here in Southern Norway. I visited my sister and her family in Asker Friday and Saturday and we had a wonderful time at one of the beaches in Asker. We had a fire, played cards and spent hours in the sun. There was still some snow here and there, but suddenly we came to a place with a lot of flowers called "Blåveis" in Norwegian (I don't know the English name). That flower is one of the first signs of spring here in Norway, and it was great seeing it once more. It's reassuring to see that there's new life - in 2006 as well. Spring is here - and it's more than welcome!

Ikea madness

Moving into a new apartment means buying new things. One of the best spots to shop is of course IKEA. Yesterday I thought I would have an easy time shopping since I was there early, but NO! The parking lot was packed with cars and inside there were thousands of people, among them hundreds of kids screaming and running between the furniture. I've heard it's like that every day, and in Oslo there are two enormous IKEA shopping malls. It's incredible, but understandable. It's cheap, and the quality is OK. The Swedish meatballs in the cafeteria are a treat as well. I'm having my Easter vacation but going shopping and working as a handy-man at home feels like work. I'm not a great shopper. Buying curtains, clothes, blinds and other things is tiring, but give me a DVD, CD or computers / electronics shop, and I've got a smile on my face. Unfortunately that's not what I have to buy these days.....

A week in transition

Moving in!

I'm recovering after a week of change, both at home and at work. Thursday and Friday I was moving into my own apartment after staying in a shared flat (as a renter) for more than five years. From the first moment I felt at home - and I think I'll have a great time living there. Especially I enjoy the view. Unfortunately I lost 2/3 of my clothes, a suitcase, a couple of photo albums and 6 volumes of Asterix books - a burglar got hold of it during the weekend in my locked room in the basement. Now I have to report it to the police, to my insurance company and probably go through a lot of bureaucracy. Hopefully I will be able to replace the clothes later on, it's sadder with my photos from my journey to Asia. They're probably gone forever - if I don't find the negatives. Saturday I spent the whole day moving at work - a lot of work, but it was great to spend time with my colleagues and also with my co-blogger Nissekona. We had a lot of fun!

Nissekona in action.

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.

National pride

A lot of Norwegians are frustrated these days. Our athletes haven’t won more than two gold medals in the Winter Olympics in Turin. 2 gold medals, 8 silver medals and 8 bronze medals is not enough for the national pride I guess. Why does it affect us when athletes win or loose? I’m not the one risking my life and welfare for gold and glory. Someone else, who coincidently lives in the same country as me is doing it for me; sweating, struggling and crying while I’m in my chair complaining that they’re not doing better. I’m not that concerned though. When I was younger I was following every competition, writing all the results in a book. Not anymore. I guess nationalism isn’t as important for me as it used to be. Perhaps I’ve found other parts of my identity that is more important? I don’t know. I am reminded by a book by Benedict Anderson called “Imagined communities” where he talks about nationalism as created, and not something “natural”. Events like the Olympics or the Eurovision Song Contest are probably great tools in this respect; creating national pride and a feeling that I’m a part of a community of winners. If we’re able to process the need to compete and win in events like this, and not on the battlefield, I think it’s great!

Cartoon controversy

Yesterday the Norwegian Embassy in Damascus, Syria was attacked and burned by hundreds of demonstrators protesting against a Norwegian magazine's printing of cartoons depicting the Prophet. The Danish Embassy was attacked and burned as well, and the story is covered by CNN, BBC and all the major networks. Once more the power of symbolic actions are manifested throughout the world. By printing these images Muslims in different parts of the world feel provoked in their honor and religious beliefs. Thousands of demonstrators are in the streets, even in London, Copenhagen and other cities in Europe. Danish and Norwegian flags are burned, stamped and spitted at in the streets of Palestine and Syria, and politicians and commentators are bewildered by what's going on. Here in Norway the situation is calmer. Church of Norway and The Ecumenical Council had a joined press conference with the Islamic Council of Norway where they have criticized both the publication of the cartoons and the violent reactions. The Lutheran Bishop of Oslo (Church of Norway), Ole Christian Kvarme, said that an insult against one religion is an insult towards all religions, because as religious people we should know and understand the necessity of respect. Therefore it's especially regrettable that it was a Christian magazine (even though it represents only a very small fraction of Norwegian Christianity) that published the cartoons. I am a little worried though, without healthy debate, discussion and friendly criticism all systems, political or religious, might be dangerous and a threat to society. Freedom of press should not be used for dishonoring religious symbols (as is the case with the printing of the cartoons of the Prophet), but are we free to ask questions and criticize other parts of our own, and other religious traditions? The next days, weeks and years will give us answers. I truly hope for a world where criticism and questions are asked and answered in a framework of respect, humility and openness!
Parts of this conflict reminds me of my impression after reading Knut Nærum's book "Krig" ("War) - (My posting November 9, 2005). He describes how the public is manipulated into certain positions because there are a few people that wants an open conflict / war. Let's not be a part of it! Let's not forget that we are people trying to cope with our existence, our understanding and our lives. If we live in Norway, Saudi Arabia, USA, Israel, Denmark, Palestine or Syria we are first and foremost human beings hoping to live our lives in peace. Hoping to create meaningful lives, living with the knowledge that we all need each other and that we are created for living in community with others.

Bye bye homepage!

Yesterday my website / homepage was erased after being on the web for years. I'm moving to another apartment in 1 - 2 months and I have to change internet provider. I had a lot of information on the web, and I've actually had thousands of visitors through the years. Now it's gone, and it feels OK. I'm a blogger now, and my homepage felt a little outdated. Maybe I'll be back with a homepage, but I'm not sure. The web has changed, and so have I. Now I'm a blogger, and that feels a little more immediate and fun (and not as much work).

Opposing views

There’s a major dispute going on in Church of Norway right now concerning the Biblical interpretation and understanding of gay and lesbian relationships and their rights for positions of leadership in the Church. The Church of Norway doctrinal commission (“Lærenemnda”), which consists of the bishops, theological experts and lay members, was split exactly in the middle with 10 votes against and 10 votes in favor of lifelong homosexual relationships and gay clergy. Two of the bishops (Finn Wagle and Laila Riksaasen Dahl) have changed their view on the matter (from no to yes) during the work in the commission. All commission members agreed that the disagreement should not split the church in the sense that they would no longer be able to celebrate the Eucharist together, but they all agreed that the disagreement strains the unity of the Church of Norway.

It’ll be interesting to follow the debate and it’s going to be difficult. It’s always difficult when different worldviews and interpretations collide. For both sides in this dispute there’s a lot on stake, and for some it’s about their view of God, the truth, their own lives and the future for themselves and the Church.

I believe we are challenged to listen; Listen for the Spirit, listen to the Word, listen to our hearts, listen to our own lives and experiences, listen to the people with opposing views and let ourselves be guided to an understanding. When we find answers I believe we are to stand for what we believe, but we have to do it in a spirit of love and humility. It’s not easy, because our (my) understanding of God and theology feels so universal and true. At times I’ve been amazed by a few theological conversations where I’ve felt that I don’t share the views of the person I’m talking to, and where we’ve been convinced of our opposing views. At the same time we’ve discussed the matters in a respectful and listening mood. Sometimes, I’ve been walking away from those conversations with a feeling that God has been there, and I’ve been encouraged in my faith and love for God. Through our opposing views we’ve felt a presence of a person we both love and want to listen to, and through our conversation we have (in spite of opposing views) experienced God’s love for us. Maybe we’ll find truth when we search for it by standing for our understanding while we listen and search for the truth together with others?

It's my birthday!

A fish I met in the restaurant yesterday. Is he/she looking at an old man?

The old man at his birthday




Once more I'm celebrating my birthday. Later today, I'm going to a party with my family. That'll be fun!
Yesterday I was out with a couple of friends and we talked about getting older. We all agreed that it feels a little weird. Inside we're the same persons, but when we look in the mirror - or we think of our age it feels strange and unfamiliar. Who is this person that suddenly is a grown-up man? I'm still the same inside I guess. Only a little more confident and secure - but looking older on the outside. Looking at the outside i realize that this life is short, incredibly short. I remember my Grandmother's sister always said that "it feels strange to be old". I'm starting to understand what she meant. Anyway, I do enjoy life, and I love living it. I want change in certain areas, but I'm so glad that I've come this far.

My Swedish ancestors

My great grandmother was Swedish and she was born in Dalarna in Sweden in 1877. She died long before I was born, but through photos and stories from others in my family I've managed to get a certain impression of what she was like. Now and then I've been doing some research on my family. Genealogy is interesting, and through the web I've been able to trace a lot of my family here in Norway. I've followed some of the lines back to the 16th and 17th century. I've had one line that stops with my great grandmother - my Swedish side of my family. In Norway there are some great genealogy sites at the web (and it's free), but I haven't really found anything similar in Sweden. Last year I suddenly found a photo at my mothers’ house that I realized was a photo of my Swedish great great grandmother and great great grandfather. From not knowing anything about that side of the family to suddenly look at a photo of my Swedish ancestors was a treat. I think it's a wonderful photo as well. At the backside it says Sven Loo, Mellerud. Mellerud is a little village in the Western part of Sweden. I've been there a couple of times, and I know that there's still family living there. As a tribute to my Swedish ancestors and family I hereby share this photo with the world.


Norwegianblogger's Swedish great great grandparents

Scared of 2006?

It's been a week since the fireworks marked the beginning of a new year. Is 2006 going to be a good year? For the world? For Europe? For Norway? For my family and myself? We don't know much about the future do we? I've tried to imagine my life ten years from now. Perhaps it's better not to know. We don't really know if there are good things ahead do we? What if there's not peace and happiness? What if there's war, what if there's decease, pain and sorrow? Unfortunately this is the reality for millions of people around the globe. 2006 will offer pain, war, disasters, broken families and broken lives. But life goes on; Children are born, teenagers are searching for answers, people find their soul mates and experience friendships and relationships, love, abandonment, loneliness, happiness and ultimately they die. Are we to experience these things in 2006, am I?

One year as a blogger

Just wanted to say that it's been fun, interesting and a little annoying to be present in the Kingdom of bloggers for a year. Looking back I'm not really sure where I'm headed with my blogging, but it seems to be a mix of photos, everyday blah-blah and some processing and thinking. I don't know if this site has any impact, but it's been fun for me, and I've been fortunate to hear from a couple of people along the way. Take care and enjoy 2006. You're more than welcome to visit my site again, and to comment - if you want to!

New Year's in London

London New Year's Eve 2005 (Photo: Norwegianblogger)


New Year's Eve Celebrations in London 2005 - 2006 (Photo: Norwegianblogger)

Every time I'm in London I love the city a little bit more. I've been in London this weekend with a friend and had a great time! To sum it all up: Two plays: Otherwise engaged with Richard E. Grant and Epiphany for George Dillon with Joseph Fiennes, two museums: Tate Modern and National Gallery, London Walks excursion to Canterbury and Leeds Castle (including Evensong in Canterbury Cathedral), New Year's celebration at Westminster Bridge with fireworks, Big Ben and thousands of people from different parts of the globe, a lot of walking and talking, a LITTLE shopping, but most of all: Taking in the spirit of the wonderful, international city of London!

Until the end of the world

Yes, now I've seen it again! Until the end of the world - the epic movie from 1990. 279 minutes in the futuristic world of Wim Wenders, set in his imagined world of 1999. When I saw it back in 1991 I was amazed and really captured by the music, the beautiful scenery and the story. Seeing a movie like that 15 years later doesn't always leave you with the same impression. Back in 1991 I saw the 2 1/2 hour version; the version I bought in Milan is more than 4 1/2 hours and is the director's cut. I saw the three parts of the movie in three nights. The first and last part of the movie is excellent and better than the 1990-version. There are parts of the movie (especially in the middle part) that could have been cut down, but even in the middle part of the movie there is a beautiful sequence after a plane accident where the two main characters walks around in the Australian desert accompanied by Peter Gabriel's "The blood of Eden".

The movie is set in a futuristic world, in Europe, Asia, America and Australia. Its fun, but some of the futuristic clothes seem a little outdated today. The last part of the movie is still very powerful and raises a lot of questions. Are there any limits for technological development and are there lines that shouldn't be crossed? What happens when we cross those lines, and are able to use technology to look into our own psyche and make movies of our dreams? It makes them insane. The aborigines in the movie understand that those lines shouldn't be crossed, it's holy and not for us to see. The only solution to be free from this obsession is through words (reading to make sense of the world) or through spirit (letting spiritual people "take" your dreams and obsession).

Wim Wenders´conclusions makes sense. I believe in the power of words, and I believe in the power of the spirit. Once more I was both encouraged and challenged by this movie. Where are we now? Wenders´dark prophecy challenges us to think where we are headed, to be aware and not let technology rule us, but let it be an instrument for building relationships and connections. I'm not sure though. I want this to be true, but at times I feel that we're already at a place where we've crossed certain lines that shouldn't have been crossed. Are we living in a society where BIG BROTHER rules, where we're not free anymore? I don't know, but I do know that words and spirit still are there to make us free...

Tomorrow I'm going to London to celebrate New Year's in this great city!

Christmas day in Oslo

Huk, Oslo Christmas Day 2005 (Photo: Norwegianblogger)

After having a great celebration of Christmas Eve in Asker I went for a little walk with others from my family this afternoon at Bygdøy here in Oslo. It was fantastic!

A weekend in Milan

After spending a couple of days in Venice I've spent the weekend in Milan. It's like coming to a capital after staying in a mountain village. Not that Venice is a mountain village, but Milan is really different; cosmopolitan, international, busy, vibrant and a mix of old and new.

I had time for a museum here as well, the Pinacoteca di Brera; a great museum with an interesting collection. Highlights for me were Modigliani's portraits and Carlo Crivellis' "Madonna della candeletta". I actually had a hard time finding the museum. I was in the actual building, but it was dark and I got confused by the signs. A friendly student at the Academy helped me find my way - another great thing about this museum - it's actually a part of a greater whole; not only a museum in itself.

Milan was filled with thousands of people, enjoying a concert outside the Duomo, finding things in the big Christmas market and shopping. What was best in Milan was to sit a couple of hours in the sun in the courtyard of the imposing Castello Sforzesco. I was transported back to a time of knights and dragons (and the warmth from the sun was nice as well).

Castello Sforzesco, Milan (Photo: Norwegianblogger 2005).

Concerning shopping in Milan; I was more than happy when I found a four disc DVD version of the Wim Wender movie "Until the end of the world" in the famous shopping center Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This is one of my top five favorite movies ever! I've seen it two times, and I loved it both times. The music (U2, Peter Gabriel, Daniel Lanois, Nick Cave, Jane Siberry, K.D. Lang, R.E.M and others) is amazing, the storyline is intriguingg and the movement between continents and different scenery is fascinating. The actors are also among the best; Max von Sydow, William Hurt, Sam Neill, Jeanne Moreau are all top notch actors. I've been hoping to find it on DVD for years, but I thought it hadn't been released. Well, it has - at least in Italy. I'm really looking forward to look at it. I will give you all a report when I've seen it. It was expensive, but if the Director's cut is as good (or better) than the original it's worth every Euro (actually 40 of them).

Venezia - Venice

I was writing about St. Lucy / Santa Lucia a couple of days ago. Now I'm at her final resting place: the city of Venice, Italy. The railroad station is actually at the exact place she was buried, but they moved her gravesite to a church nearby. The name of the railway station is actually Santa Lucia.

Today is freezing here in Venice, and it's foggy too. It makes the setting nice for a spooky adventure. Yesterday was wonderful with sunshine from a blue sky. This is a city of contrast at this time of the year. I'm glad I'm here in December. It's not as crowded as at other times of the year and you tend to see a lot of the locals, even though the Japanese presence is obvious.

A dark adventure in Venice (Photo: Norwegianblogger, December 2005)

Yesterday I went to a great concert in a church here in Venice. I can't imagine a better setting for Vivaldi's Four Seasons. I really enjoyed it. I've had time for both the Guggenheim museum and the Accademia. Two great museums with interesting collections. Best of all while you're in Venice is to walk and walk and walk. I really feel it in my legs now. I've been walking a lot. At 18:20 I'm having the train to Milan. I'm going to spend the weekend there. Maybe a couple of more museums, some good food, and for sure a lot of walking! Chiao. Arrivideci!

Santa Lucia - A Nordic Tradition

St. Lucia celebrations in Oslo, Norway (Photo: Norwegianblogger 2005)

In the Nordic countries there are a lot of traditions connected to this day - 13th of December. Angelic-looking children light candles and dress in white robes as they commemorate the Italian saint Santa Lucia (St. Lucy) who defended her faith into martyrdom. This morning I was lucky enough to experience a little of this 13th of December magic. First I passed children singing and dressed in white in the main street of Oslo, Karl Johan, and afterwards I was able to take part in the celebration at my workplace. I think these kinds of traditions are important, and the story about St. Lucia is well worth remembering too.

Kristine Alveng - Our “workplace St. Lucia”, captured the spirit of this day. (Photo: Norwegianblogger 2005)

Christmastime is here (soon)

Detail from Karlskirche, Vienna (Photo: Norwegianblogger 2005)

I've spent much of the day listening to Christmas music, lighting a few candles and letting the Christmas spirit fill my place and my inner being. There's something about Christmas that amazes me every year: The Earth celebrates a child. I think it's a wonderful thought. At one time in history: God - the Creator of all things and the Ruler of the Universe became a child. God was left in the hands of a teenage mother and a poor father. This story is very touching, because it tells us something about God. Through the eyes of the child Jesus God watched the world, and made himself dependent upon Mankind. What a story - what a message. This calls for a celebration: Celebrating children, celebrating mothers and Mankind that actually was able at one time in history to nurture God into being a man. Most of all it's a time for celebrating God's love of Mankind and for God's presence trough a little child in Bethlehem 2000 years ago.

VAMP - (a)live in Oslo

VAMP at Sentrum Scene, Oslo November 2005 (Photo: Norwegianblogger)

Yesterday the Norwegian folk-rock group VAMP filled the rock club “Sentrum Scene” here in Oslo with hundreds of fans for one of this year’s best concerts. I went with three friends and we got more than we bargained for; It was art, it was entertainment, it was pure joy and expressions of longing and sadness, it was rock, jazz, folk, new age, pop and beautiful ballads made of poetry. I could go on: violins, trumpet, accordion, acoustic and electric guitars, flutes and drums were used to make wonderful, heartfelt music. To top that: the audience was fantastic – every single person was there to enjoy music, have fun and make the evening complete: Silence, dancing, shouting and singing when that was required. If you ever get the chance to get a ticket: A VAMP concert should not be missed!!

VAMP in blue, Sentrum Scene, Oslo November 2005 (Photo: Norwegianblogger)

Note from at truth-seeker

This morning I once again visited the blog that inspired me to start my own. I’m always challenged and inspired when I visit this blog, and today was no exception. I’ve met Rachelle a couple of times in real life, and she is one of the persons on this planet that really lives intensely and touches you through her thoughts and personality. A couple of days ago she wrote an incredible post in her blog that really made me think (once more). After reading it I was left with a lot of questions about truth and theology. Is there a doctrine or a truth that can be held as 100% truth, or is it all about relationships? Do we find truth in the way we act or in the way we think? Are we to discuss right or wrong at all when it comes to religion, or are we only to share? I think I know my answers, but I would have loved to hear yours. Before you answer, read Rachelle’s here.

An imaginary war

I’ve done a lot of walking recently, and that has given me a lot of time to listen to audio books. Now I’m listening to a great book by Norwegian author and satirist Knut Nærum called WAR! (KRIG!). I really enjoy this book. The main storyline is that Norway declares a war towards the Netherlands, and the root of the conflict is a Norwegian skater hindering a Dutch skater from winning the World Championships! The book reveals how hate is built through the big and small occurrences that changes the way we think and act. It’s incredibly funny, but at the same time thought-provoking, because you can’t think of two peoples with more things in common than the Norwegians and the Dutch. I’ve experienced it again and again. When I meet Dutch people it feels like meeting someone from the next village or town here in Norway. It’s usually very easy to meet, and there are few cultural obstacles in the conversation. Usually we enjoy visiting each others countries, and we have a lot of the same values. In this book the harmony between our countries is daily challenged by little things, and throughout the audio book the listener is little by little manipulated into hating parts of Dutch culture as well :). The author describes so well what happens when we give room for prejudice and hate. The book describes a situation where Norway is manipulated into a meaningless war with a friendly ally. A skater, a comedian, journalists and secret agents are involved in building up hate and prejudice against the Dutch. I definitely think the description of the process is close to the truth, and in this way satire is a powerful weapon to expose and reveal how meaningless a lot of today’s conflicts are.

What if....

What if... Sometimes that phrase is stuck in my mind. What if... what if... what if...

In "What if" there's a strong element of wanting change, longing for a world where every child can wake up surrounded by family and friends, with enough food and material goods, without terror and war. Where every single person finds someone to love, and where the word "loneliness" is out of the vocabulary. Maybe childish dreams, but what if another world is possible?

WHAT IF IT'S UP TO US?

WHAT IF IT'S UP TO ME?

A friendly face

I’ve been thinking of faces today. What is a face, and how are our faces our foremost tool of communication? A lot of our communication comes through our faces. Through our faces we’re able to show our sadness, our joy and how we perceive others.

In my life I have experienced several times how a human face and its expressions can change my day. When I was younger I spent a lot of time in one of the churches of Oslo. Sometimes I participated in the service in doing worship, at communion or in leading the service. When I was looking at a big group of people knowing that they looked at me, I was amazed to see how “closed” a lot of their faces were, but there – in the middle of the church was a smiling, open face of an older woman with white hair. I will never forget her face – showing with every part of her face that she appreciated me taking part and showing me that she wanted me to do my best. More than ten years later I still feel the positive energy of her smiling eyes and her positive attitude.

Another experience was three years ago. For months I’d been taking part in the preparation of a conference for Church of Norway. For the conference we invited, as the main speaker, the founder of the movement L’Arche, Jean Vanier. I’d read some of his work, and listened to a couple of his sermons and was a little nervous when I knocked at the door of his room at the conference center. He was sitting at the couch, and when I came into the room I looked into a face that broke into a wonderful, open smile. I had never met him before, but it felt like meeting a father that hadn’t seen his son for years. He rose up from the coach with a big smile and shook my hand while giving me 100 % of his attention.

In 1993 one of the greatest leaders the world has ever seen, Nelson Mandela, participated in a service in Oslo Cathedral. He was in Oslo as a laureate of the Nobel Peace Prize, and I was there to experience this legendary man. After the service Nelson Mandela walked down the aisle, and for just a couple of seconds his eyes met mine and I looked into this smiling, open face where every part of it tells a story of how love conquers hate, and how forgiveness suppress evil.

My inner image of these three faces will forever be with me and I wonder why. I guess we all long for the feeling of being seen, accepted and embraced. Our faces are our main communicative tools, and through it we can “read” the acceptance or rejection of others. In a world of words our faces “gives us away”. We can try to conceal what we feel, and often we do, but what if we dare to do like the woman in church, like Jean Vanier and Nelson Mandela. To let our faces and our bodies be the frame from where our souls might shine? I don’t know how these people are able to meet thousands and to be able to see them all, but I suspect it has something to do with a sense of being seen. By focusing on something outside of themselves, because they know that they are loved and that their contribution makes a difference in the life of their fellow man, to dare to think and know that every person, every creature is created and loved, worthy to be met through our faces, with openness and honesty. Wow, I’ve got such a long way to go, but I would have loved to be able to grasp only a little of what these three people have understood and made a part of their interaction with others.

The Man from Canterbury

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams at the University of Oslo, October 7, 2005 (Photo: Norwegianblogger)

During the last weeks I've been a part of a group that has been preparing the visit of The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams in Norway. I like that kind of work, and when I've been working on a project for awhile it makes me curious about the person. Today I was able to take part in one of the many parts of his program here in Norway, namely his lecture at the University of Oslo. Afterwards I was able to exchange a few words with him and have a couple of photos of course, before he went on with his program. At his lecture he talked about "Christian thought and the Threat to Earth". The scarcity of resources represents a moral question. When people fight for resources, injustice happens. Every person has a fundamental right to have his or her vital needs met. The Church must answer these questions through actions, but also by finding theological answers. The Archbishop elaborated four different approaches. The first approach is relational / creational. The material world was brought into existence by a word from God. The LOGOS (the word) is basic for all encounters. LOGOS is God, and everything is brought into relationship with God by being created. Secondly is the contemplative approach with its emphasis on poverty. It's possible to think of poverty as a cleared vision of the world. When we free ourselves from all our attachments, we are able to get a clearer vision. In that way, poverty is a challenge to all addictive behavior. Thirdly there is the sacramental approach, that all things are related before it relates to us or me. Fourth he talked about the approach of justice. As is said in the book of Leviticus, we don't own the land, it is only lend to us. Our possessions are not ours, but are only there to be used for awhile. Care for the environment is decisive for the future of this planet. Access to clean water and unpolluted food is important for all of us, and shouldn't be of access to only a few. The challenge for us is to understand that even though one person can't change the world, every person can change one thing.
I felt privileged to be able to listen to this leader of the world's 77 million Anglicans in 160 countries. I didn’t understand everything. I’m not a theologian, and I guess my British English understanding is a little corrupted after staying a year in the US, but Dr. Williams seems to care for the world, and has found a way to make theology into action. We need that, and we need leaders that show us the challenges for the church and the world today.


Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams in Oslo, October 7, 2005 (Photo: Norwegianblogger)

A theology of change?

Does that sound like a contradiction? Is it impossible to think of theology as vibrant, alive and both an agent for change and changeable in itself?

Theology (and faith) can be a guarantee for conservatism. What's been there has been proven by time, and is therefore truth. What's in the tradition is safe and shouldn't be changed in any way. In some ways this is a respectable position. Some of us long for clear answers and a feeling of knowing the truth. In clear-cut words and theological positions we find a sense of belonging and trust. When we're saying the right words and are fighting for the right positions we are right with God and on the safe side. The community that comes out of defending this kind of truth is often strong, and when it is under attack it's even stronger. Nothing wrong about that. You find this position in every society; in political parties (ideology), in religious communities (faith / theology), sometimes even in sports or music (fan-base of a team or an artist). As human beings we constantly look for ways to be accepted, included and loved. Defending a position is often about defending our belonging to a certain group or community.

Sometimes I've been thinking a lot of the Pharisees at the time of Jesus. What a terrible threat that man must have been for their sense of belonging, for their dignity and their power. They said all the right words, they held strongly to the traditional sayings of the Scripture, they defended what they considered to be the truth with their lives, and they thought that God was on their side and that he loved their faithfulness and seal for his word. Jesus walked up to them and challenged all of their authority, their sense of truth and their understanding of the word. He put another interpretation on the words that they had learned and that had been interpreted by their group for centuries. This carpenter from Nazareth undermined all their wisdom, authority and power, and he revealed a totally new approach to theology and life.

A few years ago I talked to a person that was frustrated about Jesus and his approach to the word, especially was it difficult for him to understand why Jesus didn’t approve of the stoning of the woman that was caught in adultery. He had read in the Old Testament about the law and how people should be punished for what they did wrong, and he found it difficult to understand why God would change his mind. The Pharisees and the people probably thought the same. What did Jesus do? He challenged all of them to the core, because he puts the attention on us instead of the clear-cut words. He emphasizes our humanness instead of our righteousness, and shows us another image of God. He reveals a God that sees every human being, and sees her as unique and special. At the same time he reveals us as people in need of grace. This dual message is very important because it shows us as loved, but at the same time weak and in need of others. Jesus challenges our position of righteousness and our need of affirmation from a group or from God and calls us to be humble and unique persons free from peer pressure.

What does this have to say for a theology of change? How are we to read Paul and the gospels and how are we to interpret the word? I’ve been reading a document from Church of Sweden lately, and it’s interesting to read how they look at Paul and his approach to circumcision. Against all his co-religionists in Jerusalem – who had a preferential right of interpretation, he stated what he called the truth of the Gospel, that there was no need to make a detour via the law in order to become a Christian. This was a great and brave new interpretation – and something that almost ripped the ancient church apart. Church of Sweden concludes in this document that Paul and the other New Testament theologians accepted active new interpretations and that this implies that one states in a new way what is central and already given, but without the meaning as understood being lost. The point is that we sometimes should do as Paul does and not just repeat what he says. In this way the Bible can function as an example of how our faith and ethics are formed, not only of what faith and ethics contain. Just as those who were responsible for the Bible texts, we have to discover together what it means today to live close to God and in the imitation of Christ.

For me this is very much in accordance to Jesus and his life, and it explains why he was so controversial and scary for the religious leaders of the day. He made theology into something vibrant and alive, and not into a set of rules to make us feel comfortable or righteous. He challenges us because he makes theology into something that draws us closer to God AND to ourselves, and he makes us look inside and to him instead of drawing lines. May we all LIVE theology instead of letting it be a tool for building walls to keep our fellow human beings in or out. The in or out is not dependent on regulations, but in letting ourselves fall into the arms of a God that loves, cares and wants us to find our way. Our righteousness is not in living in accordance to principles, but in being filled by a love that covers us, reveals us, leaves us in need of others and lifts us to a place of relationship – to God, to others and to ourselves. That, I believe, is a theology of change!

Still summer?

I've been out walking with my camera and enjoying the sunny and nice weather. It's warmer than usual at this time of the year and it's strange to be able to feel the summer in the end of September. It might change any day, so we have to enjoy it as long as it is here. Here's one of my photos from today.

Indian summer in Oslo (Photo: Norwegianblogger)

A jazzy evening

I never knew Burt Bacharach could sound like this! That was my reaction after a concert at Norway's new National Jazz Stage, Cosmopolite here in Oslo. The Swedish singer Rigmor Gustafsson rocked, or rather jazzed the house with smooth, interesting, challenging and great versions of Burt Bacharach’s songs and old hits by Dionne Warwick. I never knew "Close to you" or "Raindrops keep falling on my head" could sound like jazz standards. Her musicians brought the songs to new heights: Jacky Terrasson, Sean Smith and Eric Harland made yesterday's evening an interesting one. Yesterday I understood once more how much jazz is about articulation and holding back. In "Close to you" she held back every word, and you could really sense how all the girls in town really, really wanted to be close to that guy :) . Yesterday was Rigmor's first concert in Oslo; I hope it's not her last! Today I bought her album at iTunes, so I guess she'll be with me the next weeks. Here's Rigmor through my lens:


Rigmor Gustafsson and Jacky Terrasson Trio in Concert, Cosmopolite Oslo, September 2005 (Both photos: Norwegianblogger)

Crash - what a movie!

Last week I saw the movie Crash with Sandra Bullock, Don Cheadle, Brendan Fraser, Matt Dillon, Ryan Phillippe and Jennifer Esposito. Wow, that movie was a ride! You never knew what was going to happen or who’s the good or bad guy, in one moment a hero, in the next a criminal. Sometimes it felt really uncomfortable, because it plays with a lot of our emotions and presuppositions. Scary! It also made me think about how often we view each other as characters more than real people. The images we make of our family and friends are stuck in our minds and are hard to get rid of. If you look one way, you’re supposed to act that way. If you’ve done that, you are like that! There is of course some truth in this, but at the same time: We are incredibly complex and consist of layers and layers inside; of emotions, of thoughts and of diverse roles and expectations. With one person we behave in one way, with another we act differently. I’ve often experienced that some think of me as a quiet and an almost shy person, while others think of me as a crazy, talking machine :). What’s the truth? Perhaps both, depending on the situation or the person I’m with? Maybe we’re supposed to live in that tension, not knowing 100 % who we are or how we are perceived? All in all: the movie shows us real people in real situations, and it shows people, all of them – that are in need of grace – from each other and from loving arms at the end of the road. I guess that's where we all need to be, knowing that each individual's life is a mix of being heroes and villains in the confusing state of living.

Justice for the World - UNDP

For my work I went to the launch of the UNDP Human Development Report 2005 this week. Crown Prince Haakon, Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik, Minister of Development Hilde Frafjord Johnson and UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) / UN representative Moez Doraid was present at the launch. The report focuses on three measurable dimensions of human development: living a long and healthy life, being educated and having a decent standard of living. In that way it presents a broader view of a country's development than does income alone. Norway was once more No. 1, and can in some ways be regarded as one of the best countries to live in. I don't dispute that, but the report reveals more important things than making Norwegians filled with pride. Children are dying - more than three times the victims of the tsunami in Southeast Asia dies every month. The rich becomes richer, and the poor becomes poorer. If we, living in the rich countries of the world (the 10% that uses 90 % of the resources), decrease our part of the resources with 2%, we could be rid of extreme poverty. But are we up for it? I hope we are - I hope I am!

Crown Prince Haakon of Norway and Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik at the launch of the Human Development Report 2005 (Photo: Norwegianblogger)

Terracotta warriors

Yesterday I was looking into the eyes of warriors from 210 BC. A strange experience. At the historical museum here in Oslo there's an exhibition of several artefacts from China, among them are two terracotta warriors and several smaller figures. It's not the grandest of exhibits, but it's worth the entrance fee. I went with some of my colleagues, and we had a great time. The artefacts are placed in a setting of sounds, lights and visual effects. It's kind of interesting to see the contrast between the old artefacts and the super modern surroundings.
















China Exhibition, Historisk Museum, Oslo (All photos: Norwegianblogger)

KG Hammar - faith & controversy

I’ve been reading a book of / about the Archbishop of Church of Sweden, KG Hammar lately. While reading it, the Archbishop released a statement about planning to resign next summer. He’s been the Archbishop of the Church of Sweden for several years, and experienced the separation of the Church and State in Sweden as the head of the Church. He’s been a highly controversial leader in the church and has been under a lot of criticism. He’s raising questions, more than giving answers, he’s questioning a lot of the central doctrines of the church and has been an outspoken leader against war in Iraq, in favor of same-sex marriages and other current issues. It’s great to be able to listen to a person in more detail, than hearing a quotation or seeing an interpretation in the tabloids. A book is a wonderful tool in that respect. After spending some time “with him” in a book written as a conversation between him and Swedish author Ami Lönnroth I am intrigued. At the same time I understand why he is so controversial. He refuses to give clear answers and answers a lot of the questions for clarity with new questions. I don’t share his views on all matters, but in some ways, that doesn’t really matter. He don’t want me to agree with him – he wants me to find my way to God, and find faith without him giving me all the answers. I find in him an interesting approach to life and to faith that resonates with something within. His view of faith is connected to a strong emphasis on relationship, between God and us – and between human beings. Faith is first and foremost a relationship to God, and not a doctrine or a set of rules or regulations. This can be seen as a mystical approach to faith. Where there is unselfish love – you’ll find God. So – where does that leave us? I don’t know. His approach challenges me to the core – he urges me to ask questions myself – What is faith? What is spiritual leadership? Who is God? What is the human race? Where are we headed? Who am I? I guess the answer lies in opening up – opening up for questions, for answers, but most of all for the ability to live in openness towards God AND to other human beings. Not being afraid of all the questions, but slowly letting myself fall – out of control – out of the orderly systems – into the arms of God. Maybe not the answer the Archbishop would have preferred, but I believe it’s a process he would have supported. So thank you Archbishop KG Hammar for trusting us to find our own answers, and giving us tools and a framework from where to find our way. Maybe that is spiritual leadership? Exercising spiritual leadership, from a position of power, but in a spirit of servitude.

Lord of the Rings in Oslo

Lord of the Rings in Concert, Frognerparken, Oslo (All photos: Norwegianblogger)


Saturday the biggest park in Oslo, Frognerparken, was filled with ten thousands of people for a Lord of the Rings Concert. Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra, Sissel Kyrkjebø, Anbjørg Lien, Sølvguttene, Oslo Bach Choir and others joined forces to give a two-hour performance of Howard Shore's score from the Lord of the Rings movies. I walked into the park a few minutes after they started to play, and walking underneath the big, old trees, with the sun shining and partying, picnicking people everywhere, felt like entering into an enormous party at Hobbiton. And then, to have the film music all over the place made the setting complete. The music was great, the orchestra was great, and the setting was fantastic. The concert could possibly have been cut down a little bit more - some parts felt a little repetitive, but in the great atmosphere Saturday, that didn't matter. During the last minutes of the concert, the sky opened and the rain poured down. That's Norway at this time of the year I guess - always difficult with open-air festivities. In spite of this: A great afternoon!
In the evening A-ha played for 120 000 people, but I joined a friend to a play at the National Theater. It was called "Demokrati" ("Democracy") and is written by Michael Frayn. The play is about the German chancellor Willy Brandt, and his assistant Günter Guillaume, who after four years was revealed to be a spy for East Germany. An interesting plot for a play, and I was definitely impressed by it!