The Two Wolves: Native Legend and Inner Life Lesson
Deep in a quiet forest, amidst the whispers of the wind and the songs of birds, an old man, wise among his people, sits beside his young grandson. Around them, nature seems suspended, as if listening to the words laden with mystery and wisdom that the elder is about to share. The boy, his eyes shining with curiosity, knows that every word spoken by his grandfather carries a deeper meaning. Today, he will discover an ancient teaching: the legend of the two wolves.
The old man, marked by years and experiences, began his story in a soft, deep voice. “In each of us, my child, there is a battle. It has been present since the dawn of time and takes place in the heart of every human being. It pits two powerful wolves against each other.”
The boy looks at his grandfather, fascinated, and listens attentively. In the twilight of the forest, the elder continues: “The first wolf is dark and dangerous. He represents anger, jealousy, envy, greed, lies, arrogance, and hatred. This wolf feeds on resentment and fear, and he thrives in the darkness of our minds.”
He paused, letting the words sink into the young boy's mind. The boy frowned, imagining the ferocity of that black wolf. Then the old man continued: “The second wolf is different. He is bright and peaceful. This wolf embodies joy, peace, love, hope, kindness, generosity, truth, and compassion. He feeds on our noble thoughts and righteous actions. This wolf, my child, is the guardian of the light within us.”
The boy, intrigued by this duality, asks in a soft voice: “But, grandfather, if these two wolves are inside us and fight relentlessly, which one will ultimately win?”
An enigmatic smile appeared on the old man's face. He observed his grandson with a benevolent gaze before replying: "The one you choose to feed."
This simple teaching, delivered with humility and wisdom, resonates as a universal truth. The legend of the two wolves is an invitation to become aware of our inner choices, to observe our thoughts and emotions, and to nurture that which fosters peace and love within us. By choosing to empower the wolf of light, we create within ourselves a space of serenity that radiates to others. Conversely, by feeding the wolf of darkness, we allow anger and resentment to take root in our minds and hearts.
Sources and References :
• Oral transmissions of Native American wisdom
The stories of the ancients are transformed into matter, form and symbol in the hands of the craftsman.Creations inspired by the spirit of legends
Each piece is handcrafted on the Nitassinan by the Ilnu craftsman Dave Verreault-Thisselmagan.
