by Peter Twitchell
I’m glad I listened to the Chief Eddie, the Chief of everything. My son Danny is a proud Ap’a today, and I am a great and happy grandpa. My great grandson was born healthy and I thank Creator God for him.
I know in our Yupiaq culture all children born were welcomed into the Tribe with Eskimo Dancing. A child born soon after an Elder passed on was given that Elder’s Yupiaq name if it was granted by the family to do so.
For example, I was given Mom’s Dad’s name – Aq’acugaq and Dad gave me his best friend’s name in Akiak when he was raised by the Joe Williams Family grandma.
Dad’s best friend as a boy growing up in the village of Akiak was named “Naparyaq” meaning a strong post. Like a pole firmly planted into the ground. Dad gave me that name, with approval first by his friend’s family.
Mom and Dad gave me those Yupiaq names which I am grateful for.
In the meanwhile, everyone loved and cherished someone in their lives. When he/she passes on to the spirit world and they name a grandchild after their loved one, it does not mean someone lives on, but their name is given in remembrance of a grand parent or a loved one who is no longer alive.
It is honoring and respecting the individual who lived a good life and was respected for their kindness.
Chief Eddie Hoffman meant well every time he told us boys to carry on as men who would raise families for the next generation to follow. Thank you Edward Hoffman for prodding us boys along in life and teaching us the importance of family.
Again, wherever Chief Eddie is I know he is smiling at us. He is the one telling boys to find a girlfriend, get married and have kids. Chief Eddie told me to get a haircut and I did. He told me to hurry up and get a girlfriend and I did. Chief Eddie told me to hurry up and get married and make lots of kids. I got him to thank for all my grandkids and my two great-grandhildren.
