13 March, 2014
In Native American folklore, a grandfather tells his grandson about the battle between two wolves that resides within each of us. One wolf embodies darkness—anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, and ego. The other wolf represents light—joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, empathy, generosity, truth, and compassion. As the grandfather concludes his story, the boy asks, “Which wolf wins?” The grandfather’s answer is profound: “The one you feed.”
This tale serves as a powerful reminder of the choices we make daily. In a world filled with distractions and negativity, we often find ourselves nurturing the darker aspects of our nature. Feelings of resentment or anger can creep into our hearts, consuming our thoughts and actions. However, we have the divine ability to choose which wolf we allow to dominate our lives.
In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul cited the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. By focusing on these qualities, we effectively “feed” the good wolf, nurturing a spirit aligned with God’s will. Our thoughts and actions are our choices; let’s consciously fill our minds with positivity, uplift ourselves and others, and grow closer to God.
As you begin each day, consider which wolf you are nurturing. Take a moment to pray for strength, and ask God to help you feed the positive attributes. Invest time in prayer, acts of kindness, your fellow human beings, and service, and watch how transforming your focus can become—bringing light into both your life and the lives of those around you. Remember, the battle within is not just ours; it extends to our communities, influencing the world around us. Choose wisely, and keep feeding the good wolf.
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