The Christmas holiday season brings family and friends together. It helps us appreciate the love and support we have in our lives that we can sometimes take for granted. During this season of giving, it's important to take the time to enjoy the simple things in life and remember what is truly important.
It's also at this time of year that we appreciate our friends and family that surround us, but it's also important to be thankful for the peaceful nation we live in. People from around the world view Canada as a beacon of peace and prosperity. Canada's beacon shines because of those who instilled the values that make us Canadian and the legacy they've left behind. What they left behind acts as the moral compass that guides our nation.
The stature of our nation on the world stage as one of the most peaceful and safest nations on earth is in large part due to the spirit of Canadians from coast to coast – past and present. This instilled-spirit of giving transcends our borders, which is why so many from around the world seek to become part of this great nation.
The pursuit of peace has been sought after since the dawn of recorded history. Throughout Canadian History, people have captured the true spirit of what it takes to achieve the environment that fosters and nurtures the peace we enjoy today.
The story of an elderly Cherokee Elder that was teaching his grandchildren about life, gives a great perspective of how the spirit that exists in Canada is achieved.
The Elder told his grandchildren, "A fight is going on inside me, it is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. One wolf is evil – he is fear, anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, competition, superiority, and ego. The other is good – he is joy, peace, love, hope, sharing, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, friendship, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. This same fight is going on inside you and inside every other person too."
The children thought about his message for a while and then one of his grandchildren asked him, "Which wolf will win?" The grandfather simply replied: "The one you feed."
In many ways this story mimics what we all, in our own way, face everyday as Canadian citizens; most importantly as parents. At some point we are all faced with having to make the decision on which one of the wolves we intend to feed; which wolf ultimately contributes to the type of environment we will live in.
Wishing you peace, joy, and all the best this wonderful holiday Christmas season has to offer.
May this incredible time of giving and spending time with family bring you joy that lasts throughout the year.
May your wolf of good always be nourished and be healthy every day of the year.