What does it mean to be free? The birth of the United States came about through the discovery of a fundamental truth — man was created to be free. For more than 200 years Americans have cherished and celebrated this discovery as humanity's birthright. And for more than 200 years, the meaning of this discovery has stimulated and energized political debate.

Forgotten, amidst this joyous celebration, is the relentless religious persecution which, for almost two centuries prior to the American Revolution, drove Europeans to flee their homes that they might worship God according to the dictates of conscience. It was their thirst for spiritual freedom which led to the establishment of a government designed to protect (not bequeath) that very freedom.

Spiritual freedom has never been, nor will it ever be a gift of government — it is the gift of grace. Governments, therefore, can neither regulate, nor deprive us of this gift. To receive this gift, however, each of us — individually — must undertake a journey. Late one Sunday night in 1976, while driving home alone, I embarked on this quest. Turning about for one final look upon familiar shores, I made a vow — if I survived this ordeal — I would find some way to support and inspire my fellow travelers. The Training of the Wolf — an allegorical account of my own pilgrimage — is the fulfillment of that promise. Here's what readers are saying:

"From the moment I read of Jim Harris sitting in a pick-up truck searching life's questions I was hooked. The pages of The Training of the Wolf seemed to turn themselves as I followed Harris' quest. You will thank him, as I did, for giving you the privilege of reading his personal account of discovery and celebration." [Cate T., London, England]