The Two Wolves: Lessons from Cherokee Wisdom Applied to Hockey
I love to find valuable life lessons embedded in ancient wisdom. One such profound teaching comes from the Cherokee Nation in the form of a powerful story about two wolves. This allegory, rooted in Native American folklore, beautifully illustrates the ongoing internal struggle between positive and negative forces within us. It is a timeless lesson which can be applied to the world of hockey and it offers valuable insights to players and fans alike.
The Tale of Two Wolves
According to the Cherokee story, a wise elder tells his grandson about a battle that rages within every individual. He describes it as a struggle between two wolves. One wolf embodies qualities such as courage, discipline, teamwork, determination, and self-belief. The other wolf represents negativity, fear, doubt, selfishness, and destructive tendencies. The young boy, intrigued by the story, asks his grandfather which wolf will emerge victorious. The elder's response holds a crucial lesson: "The one you feed."
Applying the Lesson to Hockey
Hockey, with its fast-paced nature, intense competition, and demand for teamwork, provides an ideal context to apply the teachings of the two wolves. Here are some key lessons derived from this allegory:
1. Choose Positive Thoughts
Hockey, like any sport, can be mentally challenging. Players face pressure, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt. By consciously feeding the wolf of positive thoughts, athletes can cultivate a resilient and focused mindset. Believing in one's abilities, maintaining a growth mindset, and embracing challenges are essential attributes that contribute to success on and off the ice.
2. Embrace Teamwork
Hockey is a team sport that relies on effective collaboration and trust. Just as the story emphasizes the importance of feeding the wolf of teamwork, players must prioritize collective goals over personal glory. Supporting teammates, communicating effectively, and embracing the spirit of cooperation foster a harmonious team dynamic, leading to enhanced performance and achievement.
3. Cultivate Discipline and Determination
The wolf of discipline and determination plays a pivotal role in hockey. The commitment to regular training, adhering to healthy habits, and constantly striving for improvement are crucial elements that separate exceptional players from the rest. Nurturing this wolf ensures the development of self-discipline, perseverance, and the ability to overcome obstacles both on and off the ice.
4. Manage Negative Emotions
Hockey can be an emotional rollercoaster, with highs and lows experienced throughout the game. The story of the two wolves reminds us of the importance of acknowledging negative emotions without succumbing to them. Players can channel frustration or anger into constructive actions, such as using setbacks as motivation to push harder or learning from mistakes to grow as individuals and as a team.
5. Strive for Sportsmanship
The concept of sportsmanship aligns with the Cherokee story's message of choosing the wolf that embodies positive qualities. Respecting opponents, playing fair, and displaying integrity are fundamental values that not only elevate the game but also shape players' character. Hockey provides an excellent platform to exhibit the noble qualities of the wolf we choose to feed.
Parting Advice
The Cherokee story of the two wolves offers profound insights that extend beyond the boundaries of folklore and spirituality. Its application to the world of hockey highlights the importance of cultivating positive qualities, fostering teamwork, and harnessing the power of a resilient mindset. By consciously feeding the wolf that represents courage, discipline, teamwork, and determination, players can elevate their game and bring the best version of themselves to the ice. Ultimately, the wisdom of the two wolves teaches us that the choices we make shape not only our performance in hockey but also our journey through life.
