An old Cherokee is teaching his grandson about life. "A fight is going on inside me" he said to the boy. "It is a terrible fight between two wolves. One is evil - he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority and ego. The other is good - he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith. This same fight is going on inside all people, including you."

The grandson thought for a moment, then asked "Which one will win?"

The old Cherokee answered "The one you feed."

"Say to yourself a hundred times every day, and mean it with all your heart: I will become more than I am. I will achieve more and more every day because I know that I can. I will recognise only that which is good in myself, only that which is good in others; only that in all things and places that I know should live and grow.

When adversity threatens I will be more determined than ever in my life to prove that I can turn all things to good account. And when those whom I have trusted seem to fail me, I will have a thousand times more faith in the honour and nobleness of man. I will think only of that which has virtue and worth. I will wish only for that which can give freedom and truth.

I will expect only that which can add to the welfare of the race. I will live to live more. I will speak to give encouragement, inspiration and joy. I will work to be of service to an ever-increasing number. And in every thought, word and action my ruling desire shall be, to enrich, ennoble and beautify existence for all who come my way."

Christian Larson