The Shepherd’s life is easier today, yet always hard. I feel as if I were there, Maria and I. It’s in our bones. Come on in.

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Life for shepherds during early pastoral eras was a demanding, semi-nomadic existence dictated entirely by the rhythms of nature, the seasons, and the needs of their livestock. Far from the idyllic scenes depicted in art, their daily routine involved rising before dawn to lead flocks across vast terrains in search of viable pasture and clean water, often traversing harsh and unpredictable environments. Armed with basic tools like a wooden crook for maneuvering sheep, a rod for defense, and simple reed flutes to calm the herd, shepherds served as guardians, veterinarians, and navigators. Because their survival depended on the health of the animals, they possessed deep botanical knowledge to avoid toxic plants and knew how to treat ailments using natural remedies. Isolation was a constant companion; shepherds spent long days and watchful nights away from settled towns—sleeping in natural caves, portable tents, or rudimentary stone enclosures—eternally vigilant against predators like wolves and human thieves who threatened their livelihoods.

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I think I was there.

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Bedlam Farm Journal

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