The landscape and lyrics to the 1872 poem (and later song) struck a chord as we toured Badlands National Park.
“Where the deer and the antelope play,
Where seldom is heard a discouraging word,
And the skies are not cloudy all day.”
Besides its literal meaning, there are lessons buried in the words that ring so true and are cause for reflection…
Playing more and living in harmony with our environment…
Staying positive and keeping hateful and negative thoughts from our minds and our mouths, and when we hear disparaging words of others we stay on the high plain by not responding in kind…
And through it all, even the worst of times, keeping our spirits bright in the sunshine by not allowing clouds to darken our skies or our outlook.
The words of Dr. Brewster Higley ring loudly indeed. We’re feeling home here on the range.
