The Shepherds Passing

Just a short descriptive piece I am working on.

The Shepherd’s Passing

Stars shone down on the hillside.  The sheep grazed nearer and nearer, the dogs drew close, for one last visit, one last touch of the beloved hand, one last lick, face, hands, neck.  An old grey mare stood watch nearby.  Each waited to say a final goodbye.

A soft breeze blew. It circled the glade drawing closer to the shepherd, the flock and protectors.  It was there when the final breath drew and was released.  Sweeping that final exhale, and those of the animals together, the breeze carried them deep into the surrounding forest, ever rising.  Soaring high above the forest, the glade, it took the breath to the one that created it.

****

Far below the shell of the shepherd lay, arms stretched embracing the mother.  Each guardian lay close, sheltering the shell as it grew cold.  The sheep and goats lay nearby in watch, as they chewed their cud.  The old mare dropped her muzzle and nuzzled her shepherd’s hair one last time.   

The stars hid their eyes and the earth mourned the passing, shedding cool spring tears.

****

In the distance, a joyful barking sounded and the sound of lost members of the flock from many years before.  Chaos ensued as the flock welcomed their shepherd.  A little bob-tailed dog led the way.  Jumping and yipping, as she ran to and fro, pushing the stragglers at a faster pace as she rushed to greet her master.

Reviews

[wordman]

it looks like the makings of a new book,and congratulation on being published

[Norma M Sutton]

Thank you. Maybe at some point it will work it's way into a story.

[wordman]

i`m sure it will,and a great story

[Shannon]

Moody, sad, but also...honour and respect.

Are you looking for suggestions?

[Norma M Sutton]

Not really, but feel free lol. I generally use the cafe as a holding place for pieces I might decide to do something with at a later date in some way, shape or form. So while I am not really looking for suggestions they are always welcomed.

[Shannon]

This is pure opinion. The first line and first part of the second , to me, don't reflect the rest if the piece, which is much richer and original in word usage.
I enjoyed personification and also repetition of sounds, as well.