Bravo, Ken Burns

A treasure house of superlatives.

That was what was used to describe the National Parks currently being celebrated in Ken Burns' newest film series on PBS- The National Parks.

It is another incredible achievement. No, it moves at the same pace as all Burns' programs- deliberate, panning still pictures, beautiful (!!) shots, celebrity voices bringing old words to life. But it entrances us as well it should.

Names: John Muir, Teddy Roosevelt, Stephen Mather, George Dorr
Places: Yosemite, Yellowstone, Acadia, McKinley, Grand Canyon

America's great idea- to preserve and protect land, special land, for all generations. It is truly an amazing achievement built on a deeply awed spiritual foundation yet very much a part of who we are. The Land has made us as much as our Declaration of Independence. One might even argue that such an idea of independence was easier formed where such spaces and places are available.

There has been so much already in the first three nights. So much more is to be seen. I am reminded why the words of America the Beautiful flow so wonderfully from our national voice and conscience.

O beautiful, for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood, from sea to shining sea.

O beautiful, for pilgrim feet
Whose stern, impassioned stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat
Across the wilderness!
America! America! God mend thine ev'ry flaw;
Confirm thy soul in self control, thy liberty in law!