A Journey Through America's Heartland: Faith, Work, and Inequality

In the heart of Nebraska, a megachurch service unfolded with hymns, greetings, and a pastor's thorough Bible study. Pastor Jesse's sermon, though detailed, lacked a modern call to kindness. The service ended with a revelation: Pastor Jesse's online essay condemned Pride Month, showing a stark contrast between his teachings and actions. Leaving the church, the journey continued on a straight, flat highway. The landscape was dominated by cornfields and occasional small towns. One such town, Lexington, surprised with its diversity, thanks to a nearby meatpacking plant. The plant's impending closure raised questions about the future of immigrant workers and the town itself. The trip also highlighted national issues, like President Trump's disrespectful post about Rob Reiner. This behavior seemed the opposite of what many consider "classy. "In Ogallala, a cattle auction offered a glimpse into the world of ranching. Buyers invested heavily in pregnant cows, showing their commitment to the industry. The auction was a stark reminder of the origins of everyday food items like hamburgers and steaks. Colorado's Fort Collins presented a different side of Western life. With soaring house prices, young people struggled to afford homes, and homelessness was visible. A conversation with a homeless man, Russell, revealed the harsh realities of poverty and the difficulty of escaping it. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance's blame on immigrants for high house prices was criticized as another example of lack of class. The journey ended with a visit to the Matthew Shepard memorial, a reminder of the importance of kindness and acceptance.