Wording in the King James version of the Bible speaks of the rods that shepherds have used to urge animals to go in a desired direction. The phrase may also serve as a metaphor for the barbs and punishing pricks against which a person may have to contend while searching for independence and self-actualization. Cultural and gender socialization provide pricks that goad a person to stay in her/his place in society. Born during the Great Depression and then becoming an Army Brat during World War II to emerge as a young mother and ranch wife during Texas long drought and fi nally becoming a college professor, her account covers struggles and transitions the author experienced through several historical periods. Kizer addresses the crises many have faced or will encounter including the effects of divorce, rootlessness, economic constraints, alcoholism, mental illness, suicide, death, and others.