Haines, Alaska – a state of mind


We’ve been through the ringer. Squeezed till teary juice comes, we know this, Haines, AK knows this. Not just as a witnesser, but a companion experiencer. But what most don’t know is how Haines, Alaska works. 

What is viewed from a far is the tragedy of a landslide, ripping up the very foundation in which we were just getting started. It’s cruel, it’s painful to witness, especially when you can’t see the ‘why’ after effects. That’s the twinkle of Haines, you literally have to be here long enough to get it. That opportunity is so rich with growth it’s a “saturation of your senses”. You can’t help but fall into it, succumbing to the bigger picture. 

“Get out”, seems to be the most sensible approach from those lower 48’rs and from their perspective, they’re right…to a degree. What they miss is the magick of Alaska and no tv show, no friend of a friend who lives here, no cruiseship vacation can really give you the understanding of WHY we live here. Because it’s impossible to describe when it’s ever changing, especially within. Much like meeting your spiritual teacher, but they’re made of air. “Hi, let me introduce to you, Ms. Swift….” 

How I always describe Alaska, is a “saturation of your senses”, which implies both feedback and alignment. You give and you receive if only to understand this is simultaneously you, an infinitude of you. 

How must that be conflicting when one does not know they are nature? 

You’ll find out here. 

What you’ll also find out in this vortex is your fulcrum. It will drive you mad till you do, but as a wise friend told me, “to no longer sweat the big things here, rather just roll with it” much like a temper tantrum. Once you’re reactive, game over. 

Can we ride this wave? Does it matter if the water is frozen chunks of condensed emotions? Do I even have a platform to stand on? Why am I naked? 

Haines, Alaska is something else. Literally. And much like the vast environment of Alaska it will give you what you’re seeking. Picture perfect to lure you in enough and isolating to help you ‘stay in it’. You will feel stuck and enraged, while also feeling free to feel it all and heaven is among one of them. 

It’s all a state of mind.

And then you wake up to realize, it’s up to you. It always has been, it’s not a place it’s a state of mind. Bringing up tears of when Joel discovers this in Northern Exposure, “New York is a state of mind in “The Quest” S06 EP15.

I recently acknowledged my needs. My real needs. Not the “trying to figure it out” needs, but the ones that have been beckoning me without rationale. Until, I listened. So, I pack our bags to drive four thousand miles in our Scooby Doo RV, while snow is dropping fast from the heavens. Decisions never get the time to be weighed here, unfortunately, no matter how savvy you are in planning. “Be flexible” were my words of wisdom when asked years ago about moving to Alaska. “Don’t expect your plans to manifest in the way you want, but let that in itself be your ticket to freedom in which so many search for.” Sometimes it will feel cruel as if you’re insignificant, that you don’t matter, just another tree in a forest full of green. You might be chopped down for Christmas and then fed for warmth, but even though your environment has changed you’re used in a way that is so universal, nothing would be this good if it weren’t for you. 

So, as I repack my family’s bags, living out of internal framed backpacks and air cushioned boots, I venture beyond the bubble, popping into another bubble of convenience, consumerism, and warm water for just a reboot. Everyone needs a spiritual break from their spiritual life. Before I arrive I can feel my feet in warm sand, this I know. This is what pulled me beyond my mind. 

And after my recharge, this choice helps me return back home, easily. 

Thank you Haines, Alaska. I finally discovered how home isn’t a place, but a state of mind. 

Knock, knock,
Vanessa Wishstar, Intuitive Medium & Spirit Guide
www.VanessaWishstar.com