HOME FROM VACATION

The apostles returned to Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught.  And he said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a lonely place, and rest a while." For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat (Mark 6:30-31).

Every year Helen and I attempt to have a family vacation, but with busy and conflicting schedules, only son Tom and his family, wife Suzi, grandson, Alex and granddaughter, Samantha could go with us.  We rented a cabin near Terry Peak, in the Black Hills, for our "home base" during the week; the temperatures are much more mild at 7,000 feet. 

Though we have vacationed in the Black Hills of South Dakota several times, it is always inspiring to see the great stone faces. They certainly cause one to reflect on the values upon which our great country is founded.  We also visited the Black Hills of Wyoming, they are not all in South Dakota, and drove on to see the Devil's Tower.  The geological formations in the Black Hills area are inspiring too, turning one's mind to God's providence as He formed, and is forming, the earth.

Any thoughtful tourist cannot escape the unjust treatment of the Native Americans because the white man wanted their lands and the gold.  Reminders are everywhere.  That being said, I do not know how it could have been different.  When one culture invades another, there will be injustice and people will die--that is the sad verdict of history.  Greed and lawlessness always seem to overcome the rule of law--at least until the Lord returns.  As a result of being in the Black Hills, I bought a book called KILLING CUSTER, by James Welch.  It is a history of Custer's last stand, the battle of the Little Bighorn and the fate of the plains Indians.  I am about midway through the reading of the book.

It was a great vacation.  Long hikes and good conversation are good for the body and soul.  Seeing sights and visiting attractions are tough on the budget, but even the Lord thought that it is good to get away for a while.  I hope you can have a good vacation too.

Our Father's Blessings,
Tom