Playing, Peace, & Purpose

I found the Jedi through a role-playing chat room after I became obsessed with the original Star Wars trilogy. It wasn't called Jediism at the time. I actually would prefer we not refer to it like that here. Being a Jedi isn't about following a religion. It's a way of life, a way of thinking. Jediism implies following some sort of structured classes in order to gain rank. In my training I was taught that you are a Jedi when decided to be one. If you choose to follow the path, you're a Jedi already, but it takes commitment and serious thought, as Yoda said. Of course, there are labels, such as apprentice, knight, and master. But they are not rigid. Being a Jedi is just deciding to live like one.

The first line of the Jedi Code is "There is no emotion, there is peace." If that is what you desire, you will need to practice flowing with what is. The more flexible you are, the more you can go along with what life brings you, the more peaceful you will feel. Most importantly, it's about accepting the bad with the good. We tend not to have trouble accepting good things coming into our lives, but when bad things happen, we rebel. The key is to embrace the unpleasantness in your life. It's not easy, but it can be achieved by practicing meditation.

Your purpose is often something right in front of you. We often are blind to that which is so close. Look around. Examine your life. What feels like your purpose, who you really are, despite what other people would say?