25 Comments
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MaryBeth Lathrop's avatar

This is a fantastic piece. You just keep shepherding all those who need it. I do the same with my grown children when they let me. They seem perfectly able to take care of themselves but you'll never convince a mother of such things. Thank you for a read I'll not soon forget.

Bridget Young's avatar

Thank you, MaryBeth. I know all of my grown kids can take care of themselves too. Why do we keep believing we're still the saviors?

Maria R's avatar

Your words always ring some reality to me, the shepherding is such a good analogy. One never truly understands anyone else's struggles. I think of you often, and will keep you and your black sheep in my thoughts this holiday season.

Bridget Young's avatar

Thank you, dear soul. Sending a huge hug in return.

Jennifer L.W. Fink's avatar

This sentence is a treasure: "The problem has never been reconciling my own black sheep back into the fold but rather tending to the pious townspeople on the hill." Your whole post, a beautiful rendition and expression of love. I will be thinking of it throughout this holiday season (and beyond).

Bridget Young's avatar

Thanks, Jennifer. Wishing you the best this season with a home full of boys.

Molly McCormick's avatar

Great post - I love the take on shepherding, mixing it in with the reality of what it means to be a shepherd. Your thoughts have altered my childhood narrative and helped me give a nod to those who are shepherding their friends, family and life these days.

Bridget Young's avatar

The highest of compliments, this is. Thank you for being here, for being open, for witnessing my stories. I'm honored.

Gina's avatar

What a wonderful piece you wrote and how I can resonate! I, too, have had a wayward child at a young age. I loved what you said about how you say goodbye after a visit , the words exchanged between you. And sleeping on the edge of a mountain, if you had to - I feel ya there! I feel your love, pain and everything else that you share here! I'm with you - from one heart and soul mom to another. ❤️

Bridget Young's avatar

I know you are! Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. I'm so grateful we're doing this together.

Jennifer's avatar

🎵 I was so lost I should have died

But You have brought me to Your side

To be led by Your staff and rod

And to be called a lamb of God...🎵

Brandi Berg's avatar

Stunning post! You are truly an angel sent from above. And I mean that with my whole heart. It takes a special person to show up the way you do, my friend. I see you. 🤍

Bridget Young's avatar

Thank you, Brandi. You are so kind to me.

Elizabeth Poland Shugg's avatar

Beautiful piece. A good shepherd is able to herd more than one type of of sheep. You've been just the right shepherd for your flock.

Bridget Young's avatar

Thank you, Elizabeth. 🖤

Annie Scott's avatar

Ok, that first line made me proper laugh - then by the end I was laughing. Which makes this GENIUS.

Fuck the sheep that left him - and all the ones that leave us when we’re stuck. And particularly fuck anyone who has the audacity to judge you for caring for people you love.

You are a badass shepherdess. Zero Bo Beeps here! And cheese and crackers are waaaaay overrated.*

*actually, cheese is life but is best enjoyed at home alone if you ask me.

Bridget Young's avatar

Hahaha, I just love you. Cheese at home is pretty rad. 🧀

Annie Scott's avatar

Right?! Buy a brie and GO NUTS!

Bridget Young's avatar

Dang that's a great idea. It's been a minute.

Leslie Senevey's avatar

This is beautiful, Bridget.

Bridget Young's avatar

😘 friend.

Darcie C. Pickren's avatar

Thank God we know the Great Shepherd guides all sheep! He will never leave us!! And that’s what mothers do. Thanks Bridget for keeping watch ❤️

Bridget Young's avatar

And you as well. 🖤

Tracey Scott-Townsend's avatar

Powerful and evocative writing, Bridget. Motherhood is not conditional, your son is so lucky to have you.