Letters from the Ice: July

Hey All,

When you haven’t seen the Sun for a long time (82 days as of the 13th of July) the mind drifts into a mesmerized state. Weeks begin to blend into days and work tasks morph into projects that seem to have no end. My mind views it as a perpetual night for better or worse. Work becomes a fine-tuned ritual in which much mental and physical stimulus is derived from it. However, the worst is behind us and the faint shadow of the sun continues to creep closer on the horizon. In 2 weeks time it will start to get lighter and on the 19th of August the full energy of the sun will be revealed. The food here continues to be of excellent quality, due in great part to the skilled galley staff. I myself make an effort every week to help out in the Kitchen with the pots because they are short-staffed and have a significantly more involved work schedule.

We will receive a Winter fly-in in August that will double our population, as well as resupply our fresh food supplies and that will bring some new blood to this station. I will get some extra help with another Operator hopefully being flown in on that flight. I currently don’t have a roommate but that may change come August. It will be good for the station to have an influx of people with new energy, although the Winter crew often gets a bad rap concerning the state of our paleness and otherwise what can be perceived as worn appearance. Darkness will definitely wear on you. I make an effort to walk about 1/3 of a mile outside of the station to Hut Point every Sunday. It’s a great time to reflect and meditate on what a privilege it is to be in a place that is such a paradox. The last two Sundays have been particularly clear and dark and allowed me to stare out into the vast expanse of space, stars, comets, and meteors. Such reflection truly inspire awe of the Creator and the created.

It can be very hard to continue to walk in the light. The light of happiness, peace, joy or even solid night of rest often eludes many here. However, a few people are more adapted for this darkness than others, but the physical and mental toll is not to be underestimated. We had a 4th of July Parade that can be viewed here on Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROQEn8WhFhQ). It was a refreshing reminder of the American presence and pioneering spirit. What has been unique about this time down here is a refreshing void of connection to the outside world, I make an effort to stay in touch with the news nonetheless to prepare myself for the return to the “real” world in October which will creep closer and closer with each passing day.

The prayers and thoughts are appreciated. In my efforts to work and put effort into rejuvenating the treatment plant, I can without a doubt say that I have already restored my work to a condition better than I found it. Now as I press on to the arrival of the Sunlight, I am a little anxious to leave the void of Darkness which has been a real test of mental fortitude.

Thanks,