The Right Wolf: Taming Inner Conflict

The age-old wisdom encapsulated in the Parable of the Two Wolves is one I’ve held close, treasuring its lessons that have weathered generations. I first heard it from a spiritual teacher during a trip to Colombia. However, it is often rooted in Native American Cherokee narratives, and its timeless message resonates universally, acting as a guiding light through the fog of life’s dilemmas. Here is my own version of the parable.

Envision a serene village nestled between twin mountain sentinels. This tranquil settlement was home to Kiyoshi, known far and wide as “The Mountain Sage.” To the villagers, he was more than just an elder; he was a reservoir of wisdom, a gentle listener to those in distress.

On a golden afternoon, young Taro approached Kiyoshi, his heart weighed down by internal conflict. Trusting Kiyoshi’s wisdom, he laid bare his emotional turmoil.

Kiyoshi, always patient and poised, shared an age-old tale: “Inside all of us, Taro, are two wolves constantly in contention. One thrives on negativity – anger, envy, greed. Its counterpart, however, embodies light – love, hope, joy, and truth. These wolves, they skirmish, each striving for dominance.”

Captivated, Taro pondered before inquiring, “Which wolf emerges victorious?”

Kiyoshi, with a knowing gleam in his eyes, answered, “Whichever one you choose to nurture and pet.”

The parable deeply resonated with Taro. Guided by its wisdom, he began to consciously steer his actions and thoughts, channeling his energies towards the positive wolf. Over time, Taro’s transformation was evident; he matured into a figure of wisdom and compassion, reminiscent of Kiyoshi.

So, what’s the pearl of wisdom here?

This parable is a reflective lens, showcasing our internal struggles, our wavering between right and convenient. It underscores the significance of conscious choice and self-awareness. In our hands lies the power to feed positivity and growth.

The tale also highlights our intrinsic duality. We can be agents of kindness or harbingers of pain, and the scales tip based on our choices. The parable nudges us to nurture our better angels and reign in our darker instincts.

Taro’s evolution, from being adrift in confusion to anchoring himself in wisdom, encapsulates the metamorphic power of introspection and growth. It paints a clear picture: with determination and the right guidance, the scales can always tip towards positivity.

The universality of this parable underscores the quintessential secret to a purposeful life: consciously curating the traits that elevate our human essence. It all boils down to where we direct our energies and attention.

Always keep this in mind what I always say: “True wisdom doesn’t merely echo in words; it thrives in actions. Repeated gestures craft a tapestry of growth and evolution.”