A Turkey for Your Thoughts
Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. (Colossians 3:12)
On Monday, November 14th, I drank my morning coffee and read one Washington Post article more than three times. `“This farm offers turkey cuddling. No, Really.” by Cathy Free at first tickled my funny bone. There were pictures of happy persons hugging turkeys that seemed to accept their fate. These turkeys didn’t appear thrilled, nor did they attempt to flee. One young woman kissed the head of a turkey she was hugging and said, “It was just the sweetest moment-I could have sat with her forever.” The California barn where these turkeys reside and provide mental health support is busy, with packed schedules and being cuddled all day.
Another person at the turkey barn proclaimed, “I sat there for a good 25 minutes, and she closed her eyes and we had a good cuddle. I was singing her little songs and telling her how beautiful she was, and it was just a special moment.” Again, the pictures were of young people needing a good poultry snuggle. After the third reading, I stopped laughing and asked, “What is missing in these young lives that necessitates a turkey nuzzle?”
Twenty or thirty years ago, pastors and teachers could hug their young people. Sadly, a few inappropriate adults ruined the innocent care and hugs that most young people need. As these children grew into adults, their desperation for affection led to the need to embrace a gobbler. Please note that in our present society, I am not encouraging adults to walk up and hug unsuspecting children, but it is essential to understand that our little ones need our attention and support. Therefore, I do not initiate hugs now but provide questions and teasing. Through questions, I show their lives are worthy of my time and consideration. I treat teasing as a verbal hug. We laugh, play, and care. It isn’t the same as a physical hug, but it will have to do with our present reality.
Today, pray for our young people, especially those that must resort to a foul for affection. Joking aside, we are living in a lonely and isolated time. God’s church is uniquely prepared to meet these needs. There are many ways we can still show interest in others and offer Christ-like love. So show an interest in those around you, and soon you will replace a turkey!