The White Wolf

Unexpected Inspiration

Sometimes, the inspiration for my posts comes from unexpected places. Today, a young lady I know who normally just posts single sentences as her status, shared a story. While it isn't the first time I've heard this story, it struck me that it needs to be shared.

This is an old legend, but is still worth telling again, for any who haven't heard it. The origins of the tale are now lost in the mists of time, but the message is till as fresh as the day it was first heard. 

Here is my version ...

An aging Cherokee warrior gathered his grandchildren together. His life had taught him many things, and today he would share with them one of the most important lessons he knew. The youngsters sat in a semi-circle around him, and he patiently waited until they were quiet.

"A fight is going on inside me right now," he began. "It is a terrible fight, and it is between two wolves. A Black wolf, and a White wolf.

"The Black wolf is evil. He is hate, anger, regret, greed, arrogance, doubt, guilt, envy, lies and grief.

"The White wolf, though, is good. He is love, peace, hope, generosity, humility, faith, trust, compassion, truth and nostalgia.

"This same battle is going on inside each of you. Indeed, it is happening inside every person you will ever meet." 

The children sat in silence and considered their grandfather's words. A few minutes later, one young boy looked up, eyes filled with curiosity, and asked "Grandfather ... Which of these wolves will win?" 

The old Cherokee grinned, with a gleam in his eye, for he had been waiting for this question. "The winner," he replied, "will be the wolf that you choose to feed."

A Never-Ending Struggle

We all have this dual-nature, and it's true that this battle occurs in all of us. Keep in mind that you can always decide which wolf you will feed, and only you control the outcome of this battle.

The Black wolf is always hungry and will eat any scraps he can, but I have found that the White wolf grows stronger with every bite you feed him.

My wish for you all, is that your White wolf may thrive, and comes

From Grandpa's Heart ...