The Shepherd

Out in all weathers, tending the sheep,
All hours of the day, for a shepherd can't keep
To just nine to five, for a job which revolves
Round caring for animals, always involves,
The need to be there, in the day and the night,
Making quite sure that the flock is all right.
Some days may be quiet, filled with time to enjoy
The beautiful countryside, and to employ
Their minds on their hobbies and leisure pursuits,
Discarding their work clothes and wellington boots.
But others will see them at work through the night,
As deep heavy snow throws a blanket of white
All over the fields, with the sheep underneath,
Trapping them there in a cold icy sheathe.
Then there is lambing, with no time to rest,
As things can go wrong and he must do his best
To make sure that each lamb's born safely alive,
And also the ewes and the lambs all survive.
Then there is dipping and marking the lambs,
Hand-rearing orphans and choosing the rams,
Shepherding isn't a job for the weak,
Neither for people whose aim is to seek
A nice easy life which has regular hours.
But in those who love animals it can arouse
A feeling of peace and contentment as they
Enjoy the outdoors and a life which each day
Can be so different, and also worthwhile
For someone who looks for a shepherd's lifestyle.