“The real power of a wolf isn't in its fearsome jaws, which can clench with fifteen hundred pounds of pressure per square inch. The real power of a wolf is having that strength, and knowing when not to use it.”
Explore This Quote Further
Analysis of Quote from Jodi Picoult
In this quote, Jodi Picoult uses the metaphor of a wolf to convey the idea that true power lies not in physical strength alone, but in the ability to know when and how to use it.Picoult emphasizes the importance of wisdom and restraint in wielding power, suggesting that true strength comes from being able to control one's impulses and use force judiciously. This quote serves as a reminder that true strength is not just about physical prowess, but also about self-control and discernment.
Applying Wisdom in the Use of Power
In today's world, strength and power often go hand in hand with success and influence. This quote by Jodi Picoult reminds us that true power lies not just in physical strength or force, but in the wisdom to know when to wield that power and when to hold back. Just like a wolf, individuals who possess strength and power must also exhibit self-control and discretion in order to truly make an impact and lead effectively in any given situation.
Jodi Picoult on the Real Power of a Wolf
"The real power of a wolf isn't in its fearsome jaws, which can clench with fifteen hundred pounds of pressure per square inch. The real power of a wolf is having that strength, and knowing when not to use it." - Jodi Picoult
- Just like a wolf, true power lies not just in physical strength but in the wisdom to know when to use it.
- Jodi Picoult's quote reminds us that restraint and discernment are important aspects of true power.
Reflection Questions:
Reflecting on the quote by Jodi Picoult about the power of a wolf, consider the following questions:
- How does the concept of strength and restraint apply to your own life or experiences?
- In what situations have you found it challenging to exercise restraint, even when possessing great strength or power?
- Can you think of a time when you demonstrated strength through restraint, and how did that impact the outcome of the situation?
- How can you apply the lesson of knowing when not to use your power or strength in your daily interactions with others?
Similar quotes
“Power isn't about doing something terrible to someone who's weaker than you, Reiner. It's having the strength to do something terrible, and choosing not to.”
“From time to time you'll see documentaries about low-ranked wolves who somehow rise to the top of the pack - an omega that earns a position as an alpha. Frankly, I don't buy it. I think that, in actuality, those documentary makers have misidentified the wolf in the first place. For example, an alpha personality, to the man on the street, is usually considered bold and take-charge and forceful. In the wolf world, though that describes the beta rank. Likewise, an omega wolf - a bottom-ranking, timid, nervous animal - can often be confused with a wolf who hangs behind the others, wary, protecting himself, trying to figure out the Big Picture.Or in other words: There are no fairy tales in the wild, no Cinderella stories. The lowly wolf that seems to rise to the top of the pack was really an alpha all along.”
“A real friend isn't capable of feeling sorry for you.”
“Prayer is like water - something you can't imagine has the strength or power to do any good, and yet give it time and it can change the lay of the land.”
“There's an honesty to the wolf world that is liberating. There's no diplomacy, no decorum. You tell your enemy you hate him; you show your admiration by confessing the truth. That directness doesn't work with humans, who are masters of subterfuge. Does this dress make me look fat? Do you really love me? Did you miss me? When a person asks this, she doesn't want to know the real answer. She wants you to lie to her. After two years of living with wolves, I had forgotten how many lies it takes to build a relationship.”
“Real mothers don't just listen with humble embarrassment to the elderly lady who offers unsolicited advice in the checkout line when a child is throwing a tantrum. We take the child, dump him in the lady's cart, and say, "Great. Maybe you can do a better job."Real mothers know that it's okay to eat cold pizza for breakfast.Real mothers admit it is easier to fail at this job than to succeed.”