with apologies to Green Eggs and Ham
Our friend and colleague Thor Hearne (True North Law/Federal Takings blog) sent us this and when we asked, kindly consented to us sharing it with you.
Thor writes: "I was trying to explain to my granddaughters, ages six, three and four months what I do and the Trails Act cases where I represent property owners. So, I wrote a Dr. Seuss summary of the Fifth Amendment and Trails Act takings."
Check this out:
Dr. Seuss Explains Trail Act Takings
In the land where you and I reside,
Private property's our joy and pride.
Everyone has a piece, maybe big, maybe small,
A place to hang your hat, a spot for a ball.When government says, "Hey, we need your space!"
They must pay you, put a smile on your face.
Whether it's a farm, or a tree, or a pond,
They give you the dollars, of which you are fond.But wait, what's this? A train's coming through!
An easement they need, to pass and to woo.
It's not quite your land, but not quite their place,
It's shared in a way, yet you both have a case.When trains cease to chug, and the tracks fade away,
The owner says, "Yay! My land's back today!"
But if Uncle Sam says, "No, here we shall stand,"
He must open his purse, pay you for your land.So, remember these words, in freedom we trust,
Private property's good; to respect it's a must.
Whether a home, or a field, or a bright yellow flower,
We each have our space, and in that lies our power.
