Pathfinder Wolf points the way home, back to the place within that feels truest. This animal, more than any other, models how to stand alone in personal power, while also being a vibrant part of community.
With all of the wild tales of vicious attacks on humans, it’s no wonder that people are afraid of wolves. These stories, however, lean toward hyperbole, not fact. Even so, since Wolf represents authenticity there may be something in the anecdotes that triggers our fear of the free wolf within.
If you have dared to be more vulnerable, then you’ve experienced the drawing closer of some people and the lashing out from others. Becoming whole is not easy.
Renowned psychiatrist/psychoanalyst, Carl Jung noted:
“People will do anything, no matter how absurd, in order to avoid facing their own souls.”
What specifically do you fear about facing your essence? Does the thought of being real create more angst in you than reducing yourself to fit into an acceptable role? And how does your need to control other people’s perception of you stand in the way of facing your fears?
It is a risk, sure enough. If you’re on this journey, you know that some friends and loved ones will push through the discomfort, allowing your individuation process. Others, will not.
The harsh truth of authenticity is this: People who are overly attached to the external, prefer appearances over truth.
Sometimes, for the sake of survival, it is necessary to wear a mask. Ask the questions: Am I diminishing myself, because I am afraid of the alternative? How long is too long to pretend?
Being true brings up personal issues, as well. Are you ready to give up the accolades you’ve enjoyed? Though some part of the facade you’ve created is real, does it provide enough breathing room, now?
When the internal voice of your soul rings truer than the external praise, you are ready to pull up the courage to walk through new doors of opportunity. Pathfinder comes as a friend. Is this your time to welcome Wolf?
Making Spirit Flesh*
What fear holds you back from wholeness?