In a country so divided, is unity even possible? In, “Eating Jack Hooker’s Cow” an essay by Portland-based writer Michael Paterniti, informs us what it means to be an American while showing us insights into characters, Jack & Bout and how their individual lives are so different, yet so similar. They both have to jump over obstacles, but some are much higher than others. In another piece, “Small Kinsndesses,” a poem by American poet Danusha Lameris touches on how were losing parts of each other now, and in order to retain connections, we need to show kindness. Despite not everyone has the same path to success, it’s about the connections you make along the way, the small acts of kindness, and the obstacles you face that will ultimately shape you, and help with the divisions in American society.