Sunday Best - On Sheep, Wolves and Sheepdogs

Lt. Col. Dave Grossman is the epitome of the modern warrior. An Army Ranger, a West Point Psychology Professor and a Professor of Military Science, he is a long-time law enforcement and military instructor. His book On Killing is an exceptional read and a must for every warrior.

He is probably best known for his piece On Sheep, Wolves and Sheepdogs from his book On Combat. Here's an excerpt:

Understand that there is nothing morally superior about being a sheepdog; it is just what you choose to be. Also understand that a sheepdog is a funny critter: He is always sniffing around out on the perimeter, checking the breeze, barking at things that go bump in the night, and yearning for a righteous battle. That is, the young sheepdogs yearn for a righteous battle. The old sheepdogs are a little older and wiser, but they move to the sound of the guns when needed right along with the young ones.

Here is how the sheep and the sheepdog think differently. The sheep pretend the wolf will never come, but the sheepdog lives for that day. After the attacks on September 11, 2001, most of the sheep, that is, most citizens in America said, “Thank God I wasn’t on one of those planes.” The sheepdogs, the warriors, said, “Dear God, I wish I could have been on one of those planes. Maybe I could have made a difference.” When you are truly transformed into a warrior and have truly invested yourself into warriorhood, you want to be there. You want to be able to make a difference.

While there is nothing morally superior about the sheepdog, the warrior, he does have one real advantage. Only one. He is able to survive and thrive in an environment that destroys 98 percent of the population.

If you ever have the chance to attend one of his seminars, I suggest you jump at the chance. You won't regret it.

Now go read one of his books. Constant vigilance!

Comments

[thebronze]

I read "On Combat" but haven't read "On Killing" yet. The former was most excellent!