So... Where ya from?
It's a question I'm asked at least three times a week. Now, I live in a southern state, and I'm aggressively Midwestern, so my calculations may be high. But I suspect most people, even those who live where their from, can relate.
So I decided to draft a response that goes beyond geography. Because I like where I'm from. And I think it deserves a more thoughtful response than how the weather's been.
"I'm from Nebraska," I say.
"I've never met someone from there," they say.
"Do you know anything about Nebraska?" I ask.
"Isn't Warren Buffett from there?" they ask.
"Nebraska is a great place to claim. But it’s not because of a billionaire,” I say.
“My feelings for the corn state run deeper.
Out there, the way of life is what makes the place special. It’s simple. People understand there’s more to living than national news or 140 characters on a screen. Nebraska natives find joy in the simple stuff. Like the one finger wave (not the naughty finger) from behind the steering wheel. Like the sun striking your face through colored leaves on a fall morning. Or a casual, evening drive to quietly admire life.
Out there, people aren’t afraid of feeling small. The “I’m really important and don’t have a second to waste not being on my iPhone” ego is swept aside by an appreciation of the bigger picture. A picture painted by massive skies touching flat land. There’s enough room for imagination to breathe deeply. And enough space for creativity to let her hair down.
Out there, people work hard. Being wrong isn’t a problem. Not trying is. People don’t expect doors to open by merely asking. Doors are kicked down by tattered boots. Nebraskans take pride in what we accomplish without beating our chests. Better yet, we take pride in what our neighbors accomplish.
Sure, the state is full of cows, cornfields, Husker fanatics, and the occasional billionaire. But it’s also full of moments. Welcomed to be discovered by the next person who dares to reach a little higher. And think a little further. Nebraska raised me to never forget to slow down every now and then. To stop the crazy train of life and stress. To simplify. And let all the imperfections of living become things to smile about down the road. Knowing you don’t have to be in the business of changing the world to make a difference," I say.
"Huh," they say. "Why'd ya leave?"
"Oh, I may leave Nebraska. But the way of the good life? That will never leave me," I say while dropping the mic as I get out of the Uber.