Black Wolf encounter in Olympic Valley, CA (June 17th, 2019 - 6:35pm)
The interesting thing about finding yourself in a bad spot is you have a choice: you can either stay there, or find a way out. I know a lot of people who have chosen to stay there. I was one of them. For over 20 years I was in the automotive industry. Before that, a big box retailer for seven years.
I was enjoying the pleasures of respectable paychecks and fancy titles, but all along I had this gnawing feeling there was something more out there... than this.
Tram Face, Olympic Valley, CA
Time went by absurdly quick, like when I was a kid in the back seat of my dad’s car watching the mile markers tick by, each one representing another year. My children grew, my first wife and I divorced, and a meaningful part of my life seemed to remain elusive, just beyond the horizon.
You can go years, even decades, like I did, without really feeling the force of its calling.
But eventually it finds you. In this way the calling is like a lone Wolf living high up in the mountain forest. You may forget about him for long stretches of time as you're consumed with the mundane complexities of life. But the Wolf is up there in the mountains, stalking you from tree to tree.
Artist Unknown
I encountered such a Wolf in Olympic Valley, CA - literally and metaphorically, my first night in the Valley. And since then I've experienced the feeling of joy I've always craved.
Your skin tingles as you feel his presence. It can happen anytime, anywhere. It's a mythic bond, a longing with the unknown, and yet you feel it pulling you to what you know is a better place.
The Wolf visits during moments like Thanksgiving when you're engaged with friends and family. And he visits when you're awed by nature, overwhelmed by gratitude. In those moments, you feel called for a higher purpose, and your spirit swells with joy.
Tram Face and Washeshu Creek
And then there are moments, maybe later in life, when the Wolf comes down from the mountain and just sits there on your doorstep. He stares at you, with those knowing eyes, studying you, your honesty, your fears, your love.
Klondike, part Malamute, Husky, and Wolf - of Olympic Valley Ski & Bike
This Wolf demands your acknowledgement. Have you been the best version of yourself? Can you look at the reflection in the mirror and be proud of the person you see? In this moment you are completely vulnerable, like the hermit crab that moves from shell to shell, exposing its fleshy body to predators. But you know deep in your gut there really is no choice. You need to be vulnerable to grow. And we all need to grow. There are no excuses at this moment. You have to recognize and submit to the Wolf that comes forth from the forest.
***
I’m Michael Kennedy, Olympic Valley, CA resident, married to Nicola Kennedy (in photo above). I’m a writer, photographer and property caretaker. I just want to say thanks for your attention - I appreciate it in such a noisy world. If you enjoyed it, please share with others.
It means a lot to me and it helps others see the story.
If you're interested in owning any photos in my gallery: click here, call or text me with any inquiries at 530.608.9150. My email: michael.kennedy999@gmail.com.
Comments