WHAT'S ON YOUR MIND
By Scott Hennen
Host of “What’s On Your Mind?” Radio Show
heard on the Flag Family Network including KTGO 1090AM
in Watford City, Williston and Tioga, North Dakota
My first trip to Norway came in 2017 alongside Carroll Juven, the longtime travel agent, Sons of Norway booster and proud North Dakotan who dedicated much of his life to reconnecting Americans with their Norwegian roots. Carroll passed away last March, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy. Through 181 trips to Norway, he helped nearly 50,000 people experience the homeland their ancestors once left behind.
Those ancestors came to the United States because of crushing poverty and limited opportunity. In many cases, they left knowing they would never again see the family members they loved. Yet they brought something priceless with them to America: the character, faith, work ethic and values of Norway. Those values helped build churches, farms, businesses and communities throughout the Upper Midwest and beyond.
Sadly, much of modern Norway has lost its connection to religion. Churches that once served as the center of village life are now museums or gathering places for special occasions. Trying to find a Catholic Mass here can be harder than finding one of the legendary Norwegian trolls.
Still, Norway remains a fascinating country filled with wonderful people. During this trip I had a chance to spend time talking with several young Norwegian men, ages 18 to 25, who work on fishing boats off the coast of Kristiansund. We ended up having a surprisingly candid conversation about President Trump and America.
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