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 not only cherished and celebrated this discovery as humanity's birthright, but we have continued a debate old as mankind.

Specifically, we are still debating two views of freedom which have yet to be reconciled: (1) freedom means you can do whatever you want as long as you involve only yourself, and (2) freedom gives you the opportunity to discover who you were created to be. While it may be argued that these views are not always mutually exclusive, only the second is supported by Jesus' call to discipleship, "If anyone wishes to be a follower of mine, he must leave self behind; he must take up his cross and come with me. Whoever cares for his own safety is lost; but if a man will let himself be lost for my sake, he will find his true self." [Matthew 16: 24-25, The New English Bible]

In 1976 I found myself in a pit of agony over this debate. Driving home alone late one night I made a vow – if I survived this ordeal...I would find a way to help others struggling alone on this journey. The Training of the Wolf 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]