For those of you who know us, we have the gift of taking in unwanted animals. They have meaning and purpose that are disguised in some of the greatest lessons, we have learned. We often embrace these challenges, as if we are taking on some noble and righteous endeavor. The fact is time and time again, I walk away with the lesson learned. Jack was a gentle giant, a slow moving shepherd. For the spectator, he just did not appear to be of correct conformation in any way. He was an Algernon or a Forest Gump of sorts. Jack not only taught me to sit with the sheep, but too sit beneath the sheep. He showed me how to close my eyes and listen to the gentle rumble of their feet, as they brushed by my side in the blackness of the night. He taught me how to feel their presence, to embrace their very existence. A true shepherd knows how to feel the depth of ones soul.
Noah Webster states that a shepherd is: A man, who herds, tends and guards his sheep. A man, who protects, guides or watches over a group of people. To shepherd the flock. To watch over carefully. To escort, guide or direct. To council spiritually. Jack added one of the greatest virtues, to love at all times.
Jack’s life was short. His body was not made to last a normal lifetime. His brain was damaged from birth. He was a dwarf, his eyes were crossed, and his legs could not stand for long. Even though some may view Jack as limited, his purpose far surpassed his outward ability.
C.A. Bresin
