NATIVE WISDOM  FOR THE NEW YEAR

A Grandfather from the Cherokee Nation was talking with his grandson.

"A fight is going on inside me," he said to the boy.

"It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves."

"One wolf is evil and ugly: He is anger, envy, war, greed, self‑pity, sorrow, regret,
guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, selfishness and arrogance."

"The other wolf is beautiful and good: He is friendly, joyful, peace, love, hope,
serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, justice, fairness, empathy, generosity, true,
compassion, gratitude, and deep vision."

"This same fight is going on inside you, and inside every other human as well."

The grandson paused in deep reflection because of what his grandfather had just said.
Then he finally cried out; "Oyee! Grandfather, which wolf will win?"

The elder Cherokee replied, "The one you feed."

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As we begin this new year, let us recommit ourselves
to feed the wolf of beauty and good.

In this way, we draw hope from one another.