Dear friends,

I recently ran across a story I heard long ago about a conversation between a Navajo grandfather and his grandson. This story made me think about the choices I make each day, both personally and professionally. 

A Navajo grandfather once told his grandson, "Two wolves live inside of me. One wolf is the bad wolf, full of greed and laziness, full of anger and jealousy and regret. The other is a good wolf, full of joy and compassion and willingness and a great love for the world. All the time, these wolves are fighting inside of me."

“But grandfather," the boy said. "Which wolf will win?" 

The grandfather answered, "The one that I feed."

I have two wolves living inside of me too and I know which wolf I want to feed, but some days it awfully tough. Especially these days. Pick up a newspaper. Listen to the news. You get the picture. Plus, its election year and we’re bombarded with an endless stream of negative campaign messages.

So how can we survive these times with a peas-ful and happy heart worthy of the good and loving wolf?

• Bark and howl only when you absolutely have to.

• Surround yourself with positive people. Limit your time with others who don’t fit into this category. If you happen to live or work with “the bad wolf,” post the above story on your refrigerator and bathroom mirror where they will see their choices daily! (I don’t believe there are many truly bad wolves, they’re just crying out for more love and attention.)

• Watch less TV. Instead, read books that will fill your soul and enrich your life with imagination, discovery and possibility. Books can take you on journey’s and introduce you to people you wouldn’t otherwise meet—all while sitting in your favorite chair wearing your p.j’s!

• Be more HI-TOUCH, rather than hi-TECH. Technology has made it so easy and tempting to communicate electronically rather than face to face. What about some good old’ fashion human interaction? Nothing can replace the tenderness of a real hug, a beautiful smile or the sound of laughter.   We need one another to uplift, inspire and encourage. Commit to using more hi-touch in your daily life. Begin today.

Every day I am humbled and reminded about the power of positive words and thoughts to make a difference in a person’s life.  I love answering the phone in our office and meeting all the amazing people who give or receive one of my books. I get goose bumps when I listen to all of the stories of love and hope. And I am again inspired to reach out and touch more people. 

I want to be the kind and loving wolf filled with joy, compassion and a love for the world. All the time.  How about you? Together, we could form a PACK!  After all, there is strength in numbers. Won’t you join me?

Wishing you peas and plenty of joy,

Cheryl

Cheryl can be personally reached at T) 877-224-7886 or cherylkarpen@aol.com