In ancient history being a shepherd was a very common occupation. Much of the land of the Middle East is dry, rocky and hilly, unsuitable for growing many crops. The herds of sheep or other animals the people had were their livelihood, providing for them food, clothing and companionship. They looked after their flocks with care. There was always a shepherd following the flocks around, diligently watching over them and guiding them to safe grounds. This was not an occupation to be taken lightly and demanded constant awareness. The flocks needed to be watched over day and night from critters and other predators that would find sheep that had strayed from the flock and bring them harm. Flock owners hesitated to hire a shepherd for fear that they would not practice the same care as the owner would. The shepherds and owners of the flocks at the time were often found fighting off these predators with their staff and bare hands, at the risk of being killed themselves. The flocks were so precious to them they were willing to put themselves in harms way, even giving their own life if need be.

I have found my mind this past week filled with odd thoughts of zombies. Perhaps the Halloween season and other circumstances surrounding the week had something to do with this, I don't really know. I am not much of a Halloween person. I never have been. I do not like scary things and I remember in my childhood being petrified when a man dressed in a scary mask showed up in the garage where dad and I were working. I found it hard to control my bladder muscles that night as a child. I have never found my mind considering such "bodies" and pondering them. I have found it strange but I also have to admit I have found the concept somewhat fascinating.