A Gentle Reminder: Which Wolf Are We Feeding?

Article contributed by Sonya Connelly, Community Outreach Coordinator

There’s an old Cherokee story that many of us have heard before — a story so simple, yet so timeless, that it continues to speak to people across cultures and generations. As we navigate our busy workdays and responsibilities, it offers a moment to pause and reflect.

One evening, a Cherokee elder was teaching his grandson about life.

“A fight is going on inside me,” he said. “It is a terrible fight between two wolves.

One is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, lies, and ego.

The other is joy, peace, love, hope, humility, kindness, empathy, generosity, truth, and compassion.”

The grandson thought about it for a moment and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf wins?”

The elder replied, “The one you feed.”

This story resonates deeply because it reflects a universal truth: We all carry both wolves within us. In every moment, through our thoughts, words, and actions, we are feeding one or the other.

It’s not about labeling ourselves or our emotions as “good” or “bad.” In fact, one of the core principles of mindfulness is non-judgment — the ability to observe what’s happening in our internal world with curiosity rather than criticism. We all experience stress, frustration, worry, or even negativity from time to time. These are human emotions. The practice lies in noticing them without letting them take the lead.

Feeding the Right Wolf: A Mindful Approach

So, how do we feed the “good” wolf, especially when life is hectic or we’re faced with challenges?

The answer isn’t grand or complicated. It lies in small, consistent acts of mindfulness:

• Taking a Pause
  Before reacting in a tense moment, try taking one slow breath. That single pause gives us a chance to respond with intention instead of reactivity.

• Noticing Your Inner Dialogue
  Pay attention to the way you talk to yourself. Are you offering yourself kindness or criticism? Encouragement or self-doubt? The language we use with ourselves matters — it shapes how we show up for others, too.

• Checking In Throughout the Day
  Mindfulness doesn’t require a meditation cushion or 30 quiet minutes. You can practice right at your desk: take a few seconds to notice your breath, stretch your body, or simply observe how you’re feeling in that moment.

• Extending Compassion to Others
  A kind word, a listening ear, or a gesture of appreciation can be a powerful way to feed the wolf of empathy — and often, we find that kindness given is also kindness received.

Progress, Not Perfection

It’s important to remember that we’re not expected to always feed the “good” wolf. Life is full of ups and downs, and we all have moments when we slip into patterns of impatience, frustration, or judgment. That’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s awareness. The more we practice, the more we notice, and the easier it becomes to shift our energy toward what truly nourishes us and those around us.

As a team, we can support one another in this journey. Whether through understanding, encouragement, or simply showing up with openness and presence, we create an environment where the good wolf is welcomed — and well-fed.

Let’s carry this story with us in the days ahead. Let it be a quiet reminder that we have the power to shape our experience, one mindful moment at a time.

Please note that this article was assisted by AI during its creation.