A group of Indians gathered around the chief and asked if they were going to have a cold winter. Being a modern day Indian, and not aware of ancient secrets, the chief had no idea. In order to save face however, he advised the tribe to gather wood and prepare for a cold winter.
A few days later the Indian decides to seek some help from the National Weather Service, and was told by a meteorologist that “indeed they were expecting a cold winter.” The Indian then advised the tribe to gather even more wood.
After a few weeks, the Indian felt like he should check in with the National Weather Service to make sure everything was on course, “Does it still look like a cold winter?” asked the Indian. “It sure does,” said the meteorologist, “in fact, it looks like a VERY cold winter ahead.” The Indian then advised the tribe to gather every piece of scrap wood in sight.
Finally with winter right around the corner, the Indian checked in one more time. “Does it still look like a cold winter,” he asked. “You bet,” said the meteorologist, “in fact, we are expecting one of the coldest winters on record.”
“Really,” said the Indian, “how can you be so sure?”
“Because the Indians are collecting wood like crazy!” said the meteorologist.