Straight from The Horse’s Mouth

One of the best headlines I ever read was "Buffalo Buffaloes Buffalo in Buffalo". It was a story by Vanessa Goodwyn telling of a struggle between a young bull, an old bull and the female object of their affection. The calm and wise one won, and what's left of the aggressive one can be seen on proud Bison display at the new high school.

In thinking about Buffalo, and the city's animal namesake, I found some deep connections that made me feel good about our citizens. For the indigenous people of Turtle Island (North America) the buffalo gave themselves in a profound way that the peoples might live. The sheltering tipis were made from their hides, as were clothing and ceremonial robes, their moccasins, bags and shields. Buffalo meat fed the people, who often used spoons and other utensils carved from their horns. The hooves made glue, the sinew a strong thread. The buffalo was the primary sustenance for the Indians. In the magnitude of its giveaway, the buffalo symbolizes the abundance that is possible when we all give away at our highest capacity. This abundance and gratitude for that richness, are all part of the Buffalo's medicine, and what makes our town such a good place to live.

The people of Buffalo, Texas give of themselves. A year or so ago a family suffered a fire that took everything. They were JMI's (just moved in) and were taken by surprise at the generosity of the town's people, who gave and gave.

It seems like every week end there is a fund raiser for a sick friend, or businesses sponsoring kid's sports team. There are volunteer programs, tutors, meal deliveries to the shut-ins and organizations that work tirelessly to improve everything from landscaping to local family oriented entertainment.

If you need help, its here. If you want to work, there are options. In a community like this is isn't hard to find an avenue for your service. Do not hesitate to call the Chamber of Commerce, or The Lord's Pantry, or any church in the phone book. You can find places to volunteer at the schools, the public library, the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary, or the Leon County Coalition and Seniors Centers. For a full listing of these phone numbers and more, check out www.leoncountytoday. com.

In the ways of the indian nations "buffalo medicine" is a special honor of abundance for people who volunteer. We are often called to shoulder some very heavy burdens for others. In a town like Buffalo, Texas, our burden is shared. Buffalo Chamber of Commerce 903-322-5810

Lord's Pantry 903-322-7005

BISD 903-322-4243

Buffalo Public Library 903-322-4146

DAVA-Joyce Stark-903-388-5552

Leon County Coalition 903-322-4377

Leon County Senior Center 903-322-4704

Domestic Violence 903-322-4261

Social Services 903-322-2812