The Story of the Two Wolves

The Story of the Two Wolves has many versions. 

This particular one comes from Pema Chodron's book Taking the Leap

A Native American grandfather was speaking to his grandson about violence and cruelty in the world and how it comes about. He said it were as if two wolves were fighting in his heart. One wolf was vengeful and angry, and the other wolf was understanding and kind. The young man asked his grandfather which wolf would win the fight in his heart. And the grandfather answered, "The one that wins will be the one I choose to feed."

The wolves fighting for attention in our hearts may be different than the grandfather's. They may be  self-doubt vs confidence, worry vs faith, fear vs love, lack vs abundance, negativity vs enthusiasm, etc. Whatever they are it is nice to know that it is always our choice which one we feed.  Just like negativity and complaining can grow and spread like wildfire from one person to the next, so too can optimism, enthusiasm, a simple smile.  As we continue to turn away from the wolf that causes pain and suffering, it begins to wither from neglect. And as we continually, consistently make the choice to turn toward the kind, loving, confident wolf so will it become stronger. Which wolf are you feeding?