Dear Minnesota
our guiding northern sister
Dear Minnesota,
Since my youth, you’ve been my shining northern star. A birch tree paradis. A friendly rivalry to Iowa. I have driven your length several times in life, your never ending woodland feeling equally mundane and magical to this prairie land girl. When I close my eyes and think of Minnesota, it’s peace that washes over me.
I’ve seen the Mighty Mississippi River from many spots along its path, including where it starts, a gentle stream at the top of your state, surrounded by stunning nature.
And I’ve seen it in Minneapolis. Minneapolis is where so many of my friends ended up. After all, small town folk appreciate the opportunities of city life mixed with friendly small town kindness. No city is perfect, but Minneapolis is the biggest small town I know.
The last time I was there, in 2021, we drove past where George Floyd was shot, the block that took the brunt of most of the riots. The air still lay thick, with a small memorial of flowers and candles marking the spot that sparked national outrage.
It was odd to see the city I loved with such a scar across its chest.
Then, like now, Americans are protective of the city. Where I have always seen Minnesota as a big brother, the nation sees you as a wholesome younger sibling. “You mess with Minneapolis, you mess with us all,” they seem to say.
Reconciliation. Since George Floyd’s death in May 2020, the city government has made a true effort to change. The officers involved were convicted and imprisoned, training was modified, and de-escalation methods incorporated. Could other cities be inspired and follow suit?
Minnesota Nice. In Iowa’s rivalry with Minnesota, I’ve argued that Iowa Nice is more strongly held in our people and I’ve joked that we should have claimed copyright on the phrase. But this January, I saw Minnesota Nice shine like a beacon. I have rejoiced seeing incidents where Minnesota Nice rises above the lie-soaked noise.
Minnesotans. The Minnesotans I know have hung posters on their doors. They have protested in subzero temperatures. They have donated and welcomed folks in and they have been angry, so angry. A visceral response to injustice taken out on neighbors and who has the strength to keep that up but Minnesotans.
Your state is full of the best of the nation. Mixing strong with soft, vulnerability with bravery, and showing courage on behalf of the innocent.
We should all be more like you, Minnesota: the nation’s guiding northern star.
For now, I’ll keep rage donating and calling my senators. I’ll close my eyes and even though it’s tears that form when I do so, I can still hear the trickle of water at the top of the state, the strength of the Mighty Mississippi gaining momentum.
All my love,
Leah
Love you friend 💗💗 this is beautiful