Where in this story does nature seem to be taking on a living role?

All of the Kiowa stories feature some aspect of nature. The reader quickly comes to realize that Kiowa tradition holds a strong respect for the land on which they live. Rather than take the earth for granted the Kiowa understand that without proper conservation practices the land will eventually desert them. Indeed this precept comes true when the buffalo herds are almost decimated. Without the buffalo for food, clothing, and housing the Kiowa are at a loss for how to exist. The tribe is forced to abandon their old way of life and adopt the practices of the encroaching white men for survival. However, the new way of life does is difficult to accept and before long the Kiowa fade away.

There is a lot that can be learned from the Kiowa's respect for nature. The inclusion of natural elements in Kiowa life appears to give the tribe a more spiritual existence. There is a reverence in the Kiowa oral histories that is not found in other cultures. For example, the Sun Dance is a prominent feature of Kiowa tradition. There are three aspects of this ceremony. The first is the worship of the sun. The giving thanks for life sustaining sunlight which aides in growth and provides warmth. For a culture that once lived in the frigid North, the Sun becomes an important feature. Secondly, the ceremony focuses on Tai-me. As the savior of the Kiowa, Tai-me is responsible for moving the Kiowa out of the North into the South. Without Tai-me's guidance the Kiowa society would have died out sooner than it did. The third aspect of the Sun Dance involves the hunting of buffalo. While the buffalo hunt is largely ceremonial, it is also an opportunity to provide food for the village. The Sun Dance is an excellent example of the importance of including nature in everyday life.