by Derek Miller
***
My heart is racing. I can hardly believe what happened even as I write it down.
A lioness came upon my sheep as they grazed in the field this afternoon. I had no weapon with me, having grown complacent and carefree after several months without incident. All I had with me was my lyre. The animals never stray as long as I play the music, but it is no substitute for a staff or sling in dangerous situations.
I watched over the flock, playing them a merry tune, when the lioness appeared on the hillside. It set its sight on my flock and rushed towards us. I wanted to run away, but something took hold of me. I ran in front of my sheep to meet the beast head on. It stopped only meters from where I stood, staring me down and waiting to pounce. I used my lyre as a shield when it lunged. The beast’s powerful bite destroyed the instrument, but the lioness paid a high price. Blood poured from the animal’s mouth. The strings had dug deep into its jaw. I seized the opportunity. I grabbed a rock and bashed in the creature’s skull while it was distracted. My sheep had scattered while I was risking my life to protect them. It took me hours to round them all up without the aid of my lyre, but at least we are all safe. I think I’ll take a sling with me from now on.
***
King Saul passed through Bethlehem today. The war with the Philistines draws ever closer to our home, and our brave king searches for able bodied young men to join his ranks. He plans to join the defense against the invading hordes himself after recruiting enough men. My brothers were among those recruited. I pray that they remain safe in the coming battles. How I long for the day when I can join them.
