Wolves teach us we all belong

October 13, 4:04 PMPhoenix Spiritual ExaminerTorie Cooper

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"For the strength of the Pack is the Wolf, and the strength of the Wolf is the Pack." - Rudyard Kipling

 Wolves can teach us to be better humans. In a wolf pack (large or small) each member has a place and contributes to the successful functioning of the pack. The pack's survival depends upon the cooperation and teamwork of each animal. Wolf packs are arranged according to a hierarchy. Pack leaders are known as the alpha wolf whilst the lowest ranking member is known as the omega wolf. The dynamics of this arrangement are such that the omega wolf needs the alpha and the alpha wolf needs the omega.

Wolves must make optimal use of their environment's resources in order to maintain or increase the size of their pack. Each wolf has a job to do. In some ways they follow the Three Musketeer's mantra "All for one and one for all." While some pack members are hunting, other wolves remain at home base keeping watch over pups and the den site. The omega wolf is often the one who elicits play within the pack. Adult wolves as well as pups enjoy play - another lesson for us perhaps? No wolf in the pack is useless. Not even the lowest ranking member.

In our families, extended families and communities, we are similar to wolves. Each of us is needed. Each of us belongs. Each of us has a job to do. We can encourage one another, share a smile or share our time. We can play with children and listen to the stories of the elderly. We can care for the sick and cheer on our Little League team. No-one is useless. It matters not your age, education, gender, sexual orientation, religion or ancestry.

Wolves are stronger together than alone. Their pack instinct tells them this is true. Although we often romanticize 'lone wolves,' these solitary canines typically don't survive long in the wild. Like wolves, we too are stronger together and as children of our Creator we all belong.

Peace to all