In Search of Green

Mother goat stood wondering whether the new patch of land was worth grazing or was it yet another alluring trap. A trap to be one among those slaughtered every day to appease the human taste buds and be treated mercilessly. Anyways hunger calls first and so the goat took small measured steps to venture into the green paradise. Others followed in due course.

It was a bright sunny day and Timo, the Goatherd boy had brought the trip of goats off for a summer spree uphill. This time it was a new patch of land he chose for them, perhaps that is why they were a little hesitant away from the comfort zone. Timo stood at a distance watching his little lasses enjoy the fresh and soft grasses. Suddenly he felt a shiver followed by his own shriek.  Alas! He saw his goats running hither-thither, the grasses were long so some were stripping off. Timo tried hard to take charge of the situation and calm the little goats but in vain.  All he knew was a loud sound of a gun shot out of nowhere that made the little ones afraid.

At one point of time he started crying and praying for God’s help. Then out of nowhere came an old man who could hardly walk had not he held his broken stick tightly. He came and touched Timo’s shoulder and told him to calm down. He told Timo to close his eyes and say ‘I love you God. Please help my trip of goats attain calm and protect them from injury. I shall always protect them and be their savior.’ Timo was blank to think of any other way so he followed the instructions and offered his prayers.

While he was praying he felt a gentle breeze touch his eyes and what followed was absolute calm. He opened his eyes and saw himself and his goats grazing in their own pace in calm, but he could see any trace of that kind old man. He was sure that the old chap could not walk that fast for sure because of the rock speckled hill. He wished to thank him for his timely help. There was a cloud of white light that dimmed and paved way to sunshine a few seconds after opening his eyes.

Suddenly he was shaken by the bleak sound of one of mother goat and guess what! She was telling Timo, common master, take us to greener pastures. We are done here. Wake up and move. Timo stood bewildered. Was it his dream or an omen to tell him that he was guided by God in my entire journey? 

Amen! Time, the goatherd smiled and moved with head held high and heart full of gratitude.