Shepard of Souls

There once was a Wise Old Shepard that wanted to understand the secrets of life. He could do everything right! Feed his flock, give them ample lodging and water, sheer them when they got too thick, and clothe them when there was no heat. He gave his everything so that there may be something. And yet his flock took no heed. Some did, but many kept running off. The Shepard warned them over, and over again. Never with hatred or malice towards his flock for he loved them. He loved them so much in fact he gave them free will. He loudly told his Flock "Go, eat the grass you wish - but maybe not over there ;) " The strong and faithful sheep followed his lead and ate their fill of the finest grass. It was the most beautiful pasture brimming with habitation and the sweet sounds of nature. It was safe here. No Snakes, Wolves, Rats, Nor Crow. Why would any stray from such a place? Well, many of the flock do. The grass is greener on the other side they say, the old man must be keeping the good stuff hidden. They don't realize that all they want is right in front of them, not for lack of abundance, but their own belief of having it. It must be too good to be true! There are too many of us for just one spot of land! The Shepard has promised there is more than enough, yet they never seem to hear his voice.

Eventually after years of dealing with his flock being disorderly, he decided it was the time to send in his secret weapon. The black sheep. This is the leader of the flock, where he goes the wise follow. He is the transcendent sheep that can actually understand the Shepard. When the Shepard speaks words, his ears are open to what they mean. Let's name this sheep Ajax. Ajax understands the Shepard's woe for the safety of the flock. Not for the loss of wool, meat, or property.... No, their well-being and their souls. For it was he who allowed for their existence! He planted the fields in which they graze, he built the stream from which they drink. He is the blanket in the winter, and the shade in the summer. Why won't they follow him? Ajax set out to corral his fellow sheep. He speaks in their tongues so maybe his words would find home. He pleaded with them to follow, yet they would not. He took to anger and was met with it in return. His tears had no stock, his jokes had no laughs, his woes went unheeded. Ajax was ready to give up and went back to the Shepard defeated. He felt immeasurable shame and sulkily sat next to the Shepard; Hungry & Wet. The Shepard however showed no anger, nor disapproval. He stood up and brushed Ajax's head. He proceeded to clean him off and lay a feast. Ajax was in disbelief. He failed his master, yet his master showed him nothing but love. Ajax understood the lesson the Shepard was teaching him. The next day he got up extra early and went to the green pasture to fill up his bags with the greenest of grass. When dawn finally broke and the sun crested the horizon, he was prepared. He followed the sheep that went far from home. He grew close to them and helped them on their adventures. Sometimes he had a great time, sometimes not. However, when bad times did come, he always had the Shepards grass. When there was little food he shared what he had and showed them where to get more. If they got cold or hot he would lead them to shelter. Ajax removed his judgement and replaced it with Love. For Love is the only emotion to truly lead you to the greenest of pastures. The Shepard acted no different, but he did crack a smile.

King Duffey