Why the Buffalo

The Buffalo also known as the American bison is testament to the strength and determination to persevere against all obstacles including our government.  Buffalo, once numbering in the millions, roamed the American plains.  Native Americans relied on the Buffalo as their main source of food.

Once thought to be limitless the vast numbers of Buffalo were hunted for pleasure and sport to almost extinction.  The prevailing notion that there was so many that one could take and take and take without consequence was wrong.  We now know that all resources have limits.  There are hardships to many when such a cavalier attitude transforms human awareness.

The sight of a Buffalo should also remind us how our government can use resources to its benefit at the detriment towards others.  Once again the Native Americans were targeted.  Their primary food source was taken from them by systematic slaughter so as to control where they lived and their population.  Coercion, manipulation and misdeeds channeled the American Indian onto reservations thus opening up the vast western wilderness to settlers looking to start over and build a new nation.

When I see a Buffalo I am reminded of their plight.  I see in them the toughness that true Americans possess.  We, as Americans, want to live our lives free.  No free government has the right to take and take and take of us or attempt to control us for their benefit.