Little Acts, Big Heart
I’ll admit, I was struck by how much I felt I needed Thanksgiving this year. Even though we will not be gathering together with our children and grandchildren, it still seems to be a much-needed pause at the beginning of so many holiday traditions.
It has been far too easy for me to slip into mood where I’m grumbling about all the bad things that have happened in 2020. But just recently, a UNL student called to ask about whether the chancellor was going to offer free coffee during finals week. Now that may seem insignificant to you, but for me it was a reminder that little things like a free cup of coffee can give students a sense of belonging and caring.
Since that call, I discovered that all our campuses do a number of these caring acts. I have a photo of the free cookies that UNK provided, thanking students for “hanging in there.” UNO has planned a drive-through at Baxter Arena to pick up a free “De-Stress” goodie bag. And UNMC is looking at several thoughtful giveaways including free cider.
*Barbara’s thoughts as written by Kate based on weekly (fascinating) conversations.
So after learning about these actions on campus, I realized I was being less than creative. And that’s what got me thinking about Oreos.
Each year, our family makes Oreo turkeys out of the iconic cookie, M&Ms, and chocolate frosting. Some have themes and some are plainer, albeit still packed with sugary indulgence. A lot of the construction material doesn’t make it to the final product, but we have fun as we work, and when finished we proudly march (trot) our Oreo turkeys in a parade.
It’s a cherished memory, a relatively little thing. Inspired by the creativity of Nebraska University, I am creating Build-Your-Own-Turkey kits to share with anyone who may need a bit of a pick-me-up from these little creatures. And for whoever has enough will-power for their Oreo turkeys to survive more than a minute (no judgement), we will parade them on Zoom at a time that works for all of us.
Sometimes I need to be reminded to appreciate the many big and small acts of kindness I see every day. During this pandemic – and hopefully beyond – we need to show even more care for one another. So whatever your tradition, whatever your cherished memory, I wish you all a very meaningful and safe Thanksgiving.
Oh, and send me pictures of turkeys you make! 🙂
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