November 3, 2009

  • Two Wolves

    This is not an original work, but I don't know its origins.  It may have been worded differently.  I am recounting it from memory.

    An indian warrior went to the tribe's shaman one day.  He said "Uncle, I have had a dream that I do not understand".  The shaman told the young brave to tell him about the dream.

    Two wolves, a white wolf, and a black wolf, meet.  They circle each other warily.  Finally, they lunge at each other and engage in a furious battle.  The wolves appear to be equal in every way, both in strength and in cunning.  For every attack one makes, the other has the perfect move to counter it.  They are still engaged in this fierce battle when the brave awakes.

    The shaman, after a time of smoking and contemplating, tells the young brave he has discerned the meaning.

    "You have within you two wolves, each battling for control.  The black wolf represents the darkness that is in all men, the side of you that wishes to embrace the hatred you have for your enemies, and wage war against those who have wronged you, and our people.  The white wolf represents the side of you that embraces feelings of love for your family and friends, and wants to stay home with them, hunting for food and living in peace."

    But, Uncle", said the youing man, "How do I know which wolf will win?"

    "That is easy", said the shaman.  "The one you feed."

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