A Poem from a Wild Idea Buffalo Customer & Friend

Last month, I visited Dan O’Brien’s Wild Idea buffalo ranch. The following event occurred…….

“HELPING MAMA DIE” By, Ed N.

Dan had lead his herd of buffalo
From one pasture to the next
To keep water, grass, and animals
In their proper context.

Most of the herd moved quick to new grass…
A small group stayed behind
Seemed that moving would be difficult
And they were not inclined.

“That one in the back, all crippled up,
It’s time for her to die
She’ll eventually join the rest,
She’ll get there, by and by

But 20 years of dropping babies
And raising them each year
Has used up her worn out old body.
She’s down to just low gear.

I can’t bear to haul her off to sell
Just because she’s infirm.
She really owes me nothing, so I’ll
Let her die on her own terms.”

When most of the herd had moved away
She struggled to her feet
And slowly limped to try to catch up,
Her life nearly complete.

Now there were 3 younger buffalo
Hanging back by that cow
By choice, keeping her company
A touching scene, somehow.

Dan points out, “Those 3 are all her calves
Holding where they belong.”
Doing hospice work, keeping company,
Just helping Mom along.

The object of care is now reversed
Since they were little shavers.
Now giving back love and encouragement
They’re just returning favors.

The circle of life is rolling on
Going to its certain end.
The cow is lucky she’ll have her calves
These final days to spend.

The lesson is this: Remember when
The grim reaper swings his scythe
Life is good when we’re joined together……
Same is true when we die.