Bear Lodge

Bear Lodge is a special place that holds deep meaning for the native people.  I could feel a small part of that meaning in my brief visit.  I could feel it when I saw it from a distance, rising above the Great Plains.  I could feel it when I approached the base, standing in awe at the imposing monument rising above me.  I could feel it while perched on a ledge in the near total darkness,  looking down at the point that the stars met the horizon.  I could feel it when I topped out to find the moon staring down at me from the far side of the tower.  I could feel it when I finally returned to solid ground.  And all of that was just a small experience from one person and one night.  Just imagine the generations of people that lived with Bear Lodge, the perspectives that it imparted on their lives, the meaning that it has leant them. 
 
It's easy to know that it is a special  place and yet be aware that I may never truly understand just how special it is.