The story of two wolves, based on a Native American folk tale, will inspire you to change your attitude and view life with a more optimistic outlook. The story of two wolves will help you start living your life more purposefully.
The story of two wolves is a classic fable that is credited to the Cherokee or Lenape people. This legend, also known as “Which One Do You Feed” or “The Wolves Within” is about a grandfather explaining his inner struggles to his grandson using the metaphor of two wolves warring within him.
The story of two wolves depicts emotional self-control and acts as a powerful reminder of our control over our experiences and feelings. The story of two wolves represents the most essential conflict of our lives: the war between our positive and negative beliefs.
Let us now delve into the story of two wolves.
The Story of Two Wolves
A young Cherokee Indian kid enraged with another boy who had wronged him approached his old grandfather, who was a highly distinguished and honored chief. The boy complained to his grandfather about the other kid’s behavior.
The chief said, “I, also, have had a strong dislike for people who take advantage of you and show no remorse for their actions. Hatred, on the other hand, wears you down and does nothing to hurt your adversary. Hatred is equivalent to taking poison and hoping your rival dies. I’ve grappled with these emotions on numerous occasions. Allow me to tell you a tale.”
“It is as if I there are two wolves inside of me; one is good and does no harm, and the other is evil.”
“The good wolf lives in peace with everyone around him and does not take offense when no misdeed is meant. He will only fight when the time is right and in the proper manner. Joy, serenity, compassion, hope, generosity, peace, simplicity, kindness, goodness, brotherhood, empathy, charity, honesty, tolerance, and faith are all represented by him.”
“On the contrary, the second wolf, is always wrathful full of despair and darkness. He can get into a rage over the tiniest of things. Fear, rage, jealousy, sadness, remorse, greed, pride, self-pity, shame, contempt, inferiority, deceit, false pride, arrogance, and vanity are all represented by him. He argues with everyone, all of the time, and for no apparent reason.”
“The evil wolf is unable to reason things due to his rage and hatred. It’s a helpless rage as it will accomplish nothing.”
“It’s often difficult to live with these two wolves inside me because they both attempt to rule my spirit.”
“Between these two beasts, a horrific war rages on incessantly,” he continued.
The grandfather fixed his gaze on the youngster. “The same battle rages within you and every other individual on the face of this wonderful earth.”
“Which wolf will win?” the child considered for a moment before asking his granddad. “The one you feed,” the old Cherokee remarked with a smile and left the place.
Moral of the Story of Two Wolves
The story of two wolves instructs you to make the vital decision as to which wolf you will feed every day. It is obviously a lot easier to feed the evil wolf because its purpose is to urge people to take the easier paths in life. Procrastination, complaining, dismissing, ignoring, and giving up are all easier options. It takes almost no effort to accomplish those things, and you’ll be rewarded with a sense of relief and rapid fulfillment without having to do much.
The good wolf is distinct in that it is more difficult to feed. Learning, teaching, motivating, sharing, or simply sticking to new behaviors is difficult, exhausting, and time-consuming. It takes a lot of energy, effort, vulnerability, momentum, and courage to do these things. They take longer and don’t always produce quick results.
Which wolf you feed will define who you are, and we all know we should feed the good wolf – no matter how difficult it is. Feeding the good wolf gives us a sense of accomplishment and success.
The story of two wolves is a strong reminder of the struggle that every human being must endure. At some point in your life, you will find yourself battling two opposing thoughts. Whether you’re fighting between fury and peace or resentment and compassion, it’s critical to acknowledge and feed the values and choices that matter most to you.
The story of two wolves depicts the good and evil that exists inside us, as exemplified by man’s conscious and unconscious desires. The unresolved or repressed elements of our brain are our unconscious thoughts. Because it is hidden from view, the evil wolf displays its authority by feeding on them and growing stronger when we least expect it.
Learning to control your thoughts can help you achieve better tranquility, confidence, and a more positive approach. Having the power of choice will help you win this battle.
The story of two wolves demonstrates that you can control your emotions and that your journey toward self-improvement is never-ending. To lessen the grip of the bad wolf and strengthen the hold of the good wolf, you must focus on the immeasurable blessings our Lord God has placed on you in this life and be thankful to Him every day.
By concentrating on something positive in your life and cultivating the habit of thankfulness, you can feel more energized right away.
So, tell us, which wolf have you been feeding lately? Always remember that you have a choice…
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