Col (Ret.) Nate Slate: Little Shepherds – War in a Peaceful Setting

Sometimes, as our convoy made its way down the neglected rural roads, the countryside was so bucolic, so rustic, it seemed impossible that a war was going on.  Emotionally, it was a portrait in chiaroscuro.  The differences were so profound.  The most irenic, peaceful setting could literally explode into violence without warning.  The contrasts were difficult to comprehend.

Yet, it was these irenic moments that brought life back into focus.  There were so many reminders of a kind and loving God.  Seeing nature’s beauty and innocence abound served as a wonderful reminder of what was at stake and what was possible.

LITTLE SHEPHERDS

Like little cherubs

they stand in golden fields of harvested grain

sheep, goats, and cows dwarf them

as they clean the cultivated earth

They are the tinniest of guards

barefoot in long colorful, tribal dresses

Like stair steps

they follow their older sisters

Our tactical caravan approaches

as they have for centuries

The deep powder roads of old

now covered with broken pavement

The older shepherds wave and smile broadly

their junior shadows clinging to their skirts

or toddling to take cover behind them

The hope in their eyes

is an infant miracle

Beyond them, the tall reeds glisten in the sun

and wave optimistically

By the deep blue waters

of the irrigation canals

—

** Editor’s Note: This piece was taken from a book Col. State wrote about reflections of his time in Iraq.