Demetris' Story, Epilogue

Demetrius’ Story Epilogue

Enosh sat on the terrace, sipping a glass of wine. Years had passed since the night in the sheepfold near Bethlehem. Much had changed. Demetrius, Alter, and Timur still worked as shepherds taking care of the flocks. Enosh had given Demetrius his freedom, yet he still worked for Enosh. He still struggled with his anger, but the outbursts were fewer and further apart. He had embraced Jesus and his teachings. Alter had refused Enosh’s offer of freedom, saying that he was content with things the way they were. 

Things had improved between Enosh and Avishag as well. Enosh was not always comfortable with the changes in their relationship. She was still a very good wife, but more willing to speak her mind about things. She and Nuria had grown quite close, something that gave great pleasure to Avishag, but often proved difficult for Enosh. They seemed to enjoy sharing secrets, secrets that seemed to involve jokes at his expense. But, the joy they shared improved his life. Then there was Timur.

Timur filled the gap that a son would have filled. Enosh enjoyed teaching him about the wool business. Alter had trained him well as a shepherd and Timur had proved a very able pupil. Enosh took great pleasure in their growing relationship. Timur and Enosh enjoyed spending time together. Respectful and kind, Timur helped Enosh set aside his pain at being childless. In fact, Enosh planned on adopting him as a son. Of course, Avishag would demand the same for Nuria, something he was willing to do. They would have to discuss all the particulars. All of this because of a strange wandering Rabbi he’d never met.

Slowly, surely the teachings of Jesus seemed to infiltrate his world. He liked what he heard, though they were often strange. Forgiving one’s enemies, for example, did not seem to be practical. Alter shared the teachings in bits and pieces, as the need arose. Avishag and Nuria seemed particularly taken. And Enosh could not help but be drawn in as well. He could not deny the improvements in his own household. Indeed, things had grown much better over the past couple of years. Enosh drained his cup of the last dregs as the stars winked on. Yes, soon he’d need to speak to Avishag about adoption.