We’ll be on va-ca-tion next time you see us

To the editor:

We are leaving Alaska. Moving away to be closer to our family. Writing that feels a bit fickle and surely a bit conflicted. You are also considered family and strengthening our communities with you has given us many rewarding experiences and a bucket full of fond memories.

We all know Alaskans are unique and independent, and it comes as no surprise to anyone that knows me that I would fit right in here and always have. The flowery speeches I’ve delivered at meetings, for a myriad of progressive community issues, were not spoken for impact. Every word was sincere. It really does feel like I’ve been protected in folds of mountains, refreshed by sparkling lakes and rivers, challenged by lofty peaks and hardy trails.

Alaska has been an inspiration and a friend in every sense of the word, and so have all of you. My neighbors, business associates, friends, relatives, coworkers, fellow performers and partners in crime, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you. Thank you for being the people you are. The independent streak that I brandish so readily was born and encouraged by the rest of you wild and crazy people.

You have been there for our family through school, marriage, childbirth, organ transplantation, community organization, cancer and death. I’ve called upon each and every one of you to laugh, cry, build, contribute, sing, dance, march, party…is there anything more to life than that list?

It is still to be determined what will befall me emotionally as I drive across the border. Excitement at a new life? Or, sadness as we leave one of the most pristine, stunning and remarkable places on our entire planet. After all, it is Alaska; I mean seriously, it’’s Alaska. That is an awesome concept in and of itself. Just the name conjures up vivid memories of snowy moose, lake trips, river rides, mountain climbing, hiking, and the northern lights.

So keep being who you are, keep working for the common good and look for our smiling faces, because we’ll be on va-ca-tion next time you see us.

Talyne Corlyn-Belka and Steve Belka