The National Parks

Yesterday I thoroughly enjoyed watching the first part of Ken Burns' latest documentary, "The National Parks: America's Best Idea." I had been waiting for this show to air in eager anticipation for several months, appreciating the depth that Ken Burns has always approached documentary subjects being applied to a subject I am an enthusiast of, and I was not disappointed. The first episode (part of a six-episode series that will continue throughout the week) mainly consisted of the development of Yellowstone and Yosemite National Parks as the very beginning of the concept of preserving public lands, including heroes and advocates such as John Muir. A common theme in the exploration of the history of these lands is the need for mankind to preserve beautiful wilderness, as it is a respite from our all-consuming and commercial tendencies, and chiefly, because it reminds us of our place as creation and the existence of an all-powerful and artistic Creator. I give my highest recommendation to watch this documentary and learn more about our National Park System!

"The contemplation of a beautiful landscape excites the highest spiritual pleasure in us."
"In particular the great [Yosemite] Valley has always kept a place in my mind. How did the Lord make it? What tools did He use? How did He apply them and when?"
"How wholly infused with God is this one big word of love that we call the world!"
--John Muir