Buffalo "Wallows"

Black Hills Bison

While in the Black Hills recently for the Buffalo Round Up, buffalo "wallowing" caught my attention. The only thing I ever associated "wallowing" with was if someone was "wallowing in a pity pot" but it is really a good thing for buffalo and other animals. 

Buffalo wallow in order to keep cool, avoid biting insects, for sun protection and grooming or sometimes just to have fun! As they wallow a depression in the soil is made and that depression helps create a water source when it rains, as well as altering the soil. 

I was pondering just how our own "wallowing" is beneficial to us and others. This comes on the heels of just spending some wonderful time with a long time friend who will be 90 years old in a week. We lingered over lunch last week for over two hours sharing and reminiscing! This time was delightful. 

Animal wallows are all different, depending on the animal. Ours are too. What one person considers to be a "wallow", (perhaps quilting or painting), another person would find completely of no interest. What is that for each of us...something that fills our spirit as we spend time experiencing an interest, savoring or delighting in?  It's amazing how a marvelous animal such as a Black Hills buffalo can be so inspiring!


Molly LaFond is a spiritual director and is now accepting new clients.  She offers appointments our of either Two Rivers or Crivitz, WI. For more information see: mollylafond.com