I remember as a child being afraid of the dark and always wondering what lurked outside. Yet, I recently became a Father and as I hold my daughter in my arms I cannot imagine never not standing between her and anything that would seek to bring her harm! The shepherd does this by choice to protect his flock. This model is good one for a leader to recognize as a function of the role that a leader plays. Often there will be times when we must protect those we serve from harm, and bear the scars from the encounter.