A mittened wave and a reminder of Midwest holiday kindness

My daily commute often feels like a competitive sport, with drivers hopping from lane to lane trying to get to work a second faster than the rest of us.

But this morning, when I slowed down to let a little blue car merge ahead of me, the driver stuck his mittened hand out the window and gave me a huge, goofy wave to say thank you.

I was so surprised by his show of gratitude that I started laughing in my car. His small kindness brought a moment of joy to my stressful morning.

This time of year, the holidays feel like a rush. Yet the season also brings out our Midwest generosity. Neighbors help neighbors, and strangers help strangers on a busy interstate, just because we all need a little joy.

And it’s wonderful to see Iowans stepping up to help. This holiday season, it seems like prices for everything, especially food, are high. Iowa food pantries are reporting record demand for food assistance.

Iowa farmers have a long history of supporting their local food pantries. That’s why Iowa Farm Bureau is again partnering with Fareway Stores to feed hungry Iowans by donating a truckload of ground meat through the annual “Meat the Need” campaign.

Last year’s donation of 26,950 pounds of ground beef, pork and turkey benefited the Iowa Food Bank Association, which serves all 99 counties in Iowa.

High-quality protein is a building block for many family meals, yet Iowa food banks report that sourcing enough meat is always a challenge.

If your budget allows, you can join Iowa farmers in giving back this season, too. Look for food donation boxes at your local grocery store, or connect with your local food pantry to volunteer.

Even small gestures, like a friendly wave on a horrible commute, can make a big difference in one person’s day.

Have a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy holiday season!

Take care,

Teresa Bjork
Editor, The Iowa Dish

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Learn more about author Teresa Bjork here.