Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

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25 Nov 2016 12:50 - 25 Nov 2016 15:51 #265865 by

Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi was created by

http://www.odditycentral.com/news/man-lives-as-full-time-grey-jedi.html

Warning: Spoiler!

46-year-old Kevin Cottam is not the world’s biggest Star Wars fan, but for the last two years he has never left home without his iconic Jedi robe and trusty lightsaber. He is the UK’s only full-time Grey Jedi.

Cottam says he became a follower of Jediism six years ago, after doing some research online. He had become frustrated by all the rules most religions follow so he decided to look for something more suitable. “Before becoming a Jedi, I was a Zen Buddhist, but I was frustrated with the different precepts and mandates that came with the religion,” he says. “I researched other religions online and came across the Djedi of ancient Egypt, which inspired the Jedi in Star Wars.”

He learned that Jediism didn’t have any holy texts or commandments, only three basic laws: the cycle of knowledge, wisdom and compassion. Through the application of knowledge we gain wisdom, and through wisdom we become compassionate. He felt that this simple principle provided more guidance that thousands of restrictive and often times nonsensical rules ever could. So he decided to ditch Zen Buddhism for Jediism and became a Grey Jedi. “All Jedi believe there is a force that creates everything. But unlike the Jedi and Sith, who see the force as light and dark (ie good and bad), the Grey Jedi see it simply as a natural force. It is how we use the force that dictates whether it is good or evil,” he says.

Kevin says that when he told his family and friends that he was going to become a Jedi, they all thought it was cool, but two years ago, when he told them he would start wearing a Jedi robe and carry a lightsaber with him at all times, things didn’t turn out so well. “My girlfriend of six years left me, as she did not want to be seen in public with someone dressed like me. I had been happy with her, but I also had my faith to follow and if I lost that, I would no longer be who I am,” Cottam wrote in The Guardian. “Some friends have stuck by me. One loves going out with me and we travel all over just so she can show me off. The reactions I get can be mixed, but children always ask if they can have their photo taken with me, and I’m happy to oblige. I find that the greatest reaction is from women over 50, who tell me they love the way I dress and the fact that I take great care with my appearance.”

The reactions he gets from passers by on the streets are the worst, though. “People judge me, give me strange looks and shout abuse at me in the street but I just want to get the message across to people that this is who I am, so just deal with it,” he told Caters News. “There was one incident that’s really stuck with me when I was walking into town one day. This man had three young children with him and one was excitedly saying ‘look it’s Batman’, while another one was saying he was wrong, and that I was a Jedi. The man turned to the children and said ‘no it isn’t, it’s that f***ing weirdo’ – I was mortified.”

But it’s not all bad. The Grey Jedi says he has been surprised about how accepting local authorities and the police in Rhyl, Wales, have been about his unusual appearance. It was they who suggested that he register his lightsaber as a religious item, allowing him to carry it at all times without getting in trouble with the law. He didn’t have one at first, but that always seemed to disappoint kids who asked to have their picture taken with him, so he eventually gave in and got a lightsaber. “If I can bring a little happiness to others, then that makes me happy,” he says. Unfortunately, the real-life Grey Jedi left his £750 lightsaber on a bus, in August, and set up a crowdfunding campaign to raise money for a new one.

After being turned down by women who couldn’t accept the way he dressed and who he was, Kevin Cottam says he has accepted the fact that he will probably remain single for the rest of my life, but refuses to change who he is. However, if someone willing to live with a Grey Jedi comes along, he says he wouldn’t try to convert them to Jediism, as that is solely their decision.

There's a video included with the article on the linked webpage.

Last edit: 25 Nov 2016 15:51 by .

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Alexandre Orion
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25 Nov 2016 13:03 - 25 Nov 2016 13:23 #265867 by Alexandre Orion

Replied by Alexandre Orion on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

One doesn't have to wear a robe every day and carry a lightsabre to be considered a "f*cking weirdo". Basically, just holding to our principles can get us those brandings too.

And that, sometimes from other Jedi. :dry:

Be a philosopher ; but, amidst all your philosophy, be still a man.
~ David Hume

Chaque homme a des devoirs envers l'homme en tant qu'homme.
~ Henri Bergson

Last edit: 25 Nov 2016 13:23 by Alexandre Orion.

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25 Nov 2016 13:45 - 25 Nov 2016 13:48 #265870 by Zenchi

Replied by Zenchi on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

Correct Alex, and not even that is required. I dress normally and have on regular occasion, angry shouts and even beer cans thrown at me when I decide to walk to town, the entitlement some people have to believe it is ok to berate another for something so personal, or even something as insignificant as walking...

By the way, the links not working for me Akkarin...

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Passion, yet Serenity
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Last edit: 25 Nov 2016 13:48 by Zenchi.

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25 Nov 2016 13:51 #265871 by

Replied by on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

Two edged Knife. I've had many conversations with this guy over the net, used to help run his facebook page too.

1. It is fantastic to hold to one's ideals and beliefs. To be steadfast in a practice that you believe in.

2. As a Jedi, we are taught to be Valorous, Humble and in some schools to conquer materialistic needs.

This guy clings to the attention, charity, and Materials of Fictional Jedi for said attention and charity. He is homeless and is turned down by many around him because he dosn't adapt to social norm and make himself a contributing part of his community. He could do himself and his "Faith" more good if he got a job and worked for a more normal life, putting his extra money into something meaningful rather than mooching off of the walefare and charity of the community he lives in.

Just my thoughts. :-/

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25 Nov 2016 13:55 #265873 by Leah Starspectre

Replied by Leah Starspectre on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

I understand the idea of wanting to wear Jedi robes full-time. I mean, I have a Jedi cosplay, and I WISH every day was Halloween (or Comiccon) so that I could wear it all the time. When I have a good excuse to wear it, people smile - they love it!

That being said, I think that dressing like this in the "muggle world" (outside of designated costume spaces or our own ceremonial events), tends to make the general population quite uncomfortable. That's why they poke fun and criticize, and sometime are outright frightened.

Would you say that, as Jedi, we should consider the comfort of others rather than the comfort we ourselves find in the outward expression of our faith? Isn't that part of our Creed?

We have the freedom to dress as we please, but should we sacrifice our own clothing-based religious expression for the comfort of others?

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25 Nov 2016 14:19 #265875 by Manu

Replied by Manu on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

The attention-whoring is stroooong in this one.

This may be blunt, but someone who switches religions because other religions require to "follow rules", is usually a slob. "I cannot be bothered to follow rules or do something meaningful, so I'll escape into a fantasy life and call it a religion instead".

Jedi is not meant to be easy. This guy should sell the lightsaber and robes, buy a good pair of jeans, and go volunteer or do something useful.

@Zenchi: why do people shout and throw cans at you?

The pessimist complains about the wind;
The optimist expects it to change;
The realist adjusts the sails.
- William Arthur Ward

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25 Nov 2016 14:59 #265878 by

Replied by on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

Manu wrote: The attention-whoring is stroooong in this one.

This may be blunt, but someone who switches religions because other religions require to "follow rules", is usually a slob. "I cannot be bothered to follow rules or do something meaningful, so I'll escape into a fantasy life and call it a religion instead".

Jedi is not meant to be easy. This guy should sell the lightsaber and robes, buy a good pair of jeans, and go volunteer or do something useful.

@Zenchi: why do people shout and throw cans at you?

I dont think its our task to tell people what to do , neither judge their behaviour from our comfortalble chairs and warm houses , homelessness comes with more than one problem, the difficulties of adjusting to real harsh life are not to be underestimated and it pains me to see so many blunt words on a man who is clearly not himself and has so much troubles with reality that he has to resort to this behaviour , emphathy is in place here more than condemnattion, people dont live it the streets because they love it and dont want to work. Dont kick a man/woman who is already down :S

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25 Nov 2016 15:21 #265881 by Manu

Replied by Manu on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

MartaLina wrote:
Manu wrote: The attention-whoring is stroooong in this one.

This may be blunt, but someone who switches religions because other religions require to "follow rules", is usually a slob. "I cannot be bothered to follow rules or do something meaningful, so I'll escape into a fantasy life and call it a religion instead".

Jedi is not meant to be easy. This guy should sell the lightsaber and robes, buy a good pair of jeans, and go volunteer or do something useful.

@Zenchi: why do people shout and throw cans at you?

I dont think its our task to tell people what to do , neither judge their behaviour from our comfortalble chairs and warm houses , homelessness comes with more than one problem, the difficulties of adjusting to real harsh life are not to be underestimated and it pains me to see so many blunt words on a man who is clearly not himself and has so much troubles with reality that he has to resort to this behaviour , emphathy is in place here more than condemnattion, people dont live it the streets because they love it and dont want to work. Dont kick a man/woman who is already down :S

While I agree with your general statement, I don't think enabling him helps either. Sometimes a kick is what someone needs to come to face with reality.

The pessimist complains about the wind;
The optimist expects it to change;
The realist adjusts the sails.
- William Arthur Ward

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25 Nov 2016 15:24 #265882 by

Replied by on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

Manu wrote:
MartaLina wrote:
Manu wrote: The attention-whoring is stroooong in this one.

This may be blunt, but someone who switches religions because other religions require to "follow rules", is usually a slob. "I cannot be bothered to follow rules or do something meaningful, so I'll escape into a fantasy life and call it a religion instead".

Jedi is not meant to be easy. This guy should sell the lightsaber and robes, buy a good pair of jeans, and go volunteer or do something useful.

@Zenchi: why do people shout and throw cans at you?

I dont think its our task to tell people what to do , neither judge their behaviour from our comfortalble chairs and warm houses , homelessness comes with more than one problem, the difficulties of adjusting to real harsh life are not to be underestimated and it pains me to see so many blunt words on a man who is clearly not himself and has so much troubles with reality that he has to resort to this behaviour , emphathy is in place here more than condemnattion, people dont live it the streets because they love it and dont want to work. Dont kick a man/woman who is already down :S

While I agree with your general statement, I don't think enabling him helps either. Sometimes a kick is what someone needs to come to face with reality.

Then our opinions differ , i prefer to prod , soft first and harder later

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25 Nov 2016 15:29 - 25 Nov 2016 15:32 #265884 by Manu

Replied by Manu on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

Then our opinions differ , i prefer to prod , soft first and harder later

I would too, if I were speaking to him in person. For a general opinion, however, Triskar's word will do to give me an overall picture.

EDIT: Then again, I personally prefer tough love

The pessimist complains about the wind;
The optimist expects it to change;
The realist adjusts the sails.
- William Arthur Ward

Last edit: 25 Nov 2016 15:32 by Manu.

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25 Nov 2016 15:30 #265885 by

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The problem is this guy has had a great many sympathizers and gentle proddings. Has had people bring him in and try to help him. Has had donations and all kinds of support. That is what he lives on and is content to be in the position of "Empathy" rather than being an adult in an adult world and doing things like everyone else has to do.

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25 Nov 2016 16:28 #265891 by

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Funny story here. I actually knew this guy. The Rhyl Jedi. When I first became interested in becoming a Jedi, I did a heap of research and finally finally finally got his e-mail. I emailed his some crap about wanting yo be his apprentice etc, and he re-directed me here. Nice to see Kevin's getting a mention here, I think he should be invited and given an honorary knighthood !! :laugh:

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25 Nov 2016 18:18 #265901 by

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Zenchi wrote: By the way, the links not working for me Akkarin...

When you paste it remove the s from the https and it should work.

Trisskar wrote: This guy clings to the attention, charity, and Materials of Fictional Jedi for said attention and charity. He is homeless and is turned down by many around him because he dosn't adapt to social norm and make himself a contributing part of his community. He could do himself and his "Faith" more good if he got a job and worked for a more normal life, putting his extra money into something meaningful rather than mooching off of the walefare and charity of the community he lives in.

Without me knowing the particulars of his situation, it could very well be that his attachment to these material possessions is impeding his ability to be of greater service. In which case one can argue looking like a Jedi is being given greater priority than performing Jedi acts. If a Jedi is meant to be of service for others then looks feel of lesser importance.

Manu wrote: The attention-whoring is stroooong in this one.

How did you arrive at this judgement from the material linked?

MartaLina wrote: I dont think its our task to tell people what to do , neither judge their behaviour from our comfortalble chairs and warm houses , homelessness comes with more than one problem, the difficulties of adjusting to real harsh life are not to be underestimated and it pains me to see so many blunt words on a man who is clearly not himself and has so much troubles with reality that he has to resort to this behaviour , emphathy is in place here more than condemnattion, people dont live it the streets because they love it and dont want to work. Dont kick a man/woman who is already down :S

Haven't you have judged that he 'is clearly not himself' and 'has to resort to this behaviour'?

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25 Nov 2016 18:30 #265902 by

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Yep i have , and i should not

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25 Nov 2016 18:38 - 25 Nov 2016 18:48 #265903 by Zenchi

Replied by Zenchi on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

Thank you Akkarin for the tip, watched this and I can attest by watching, (doesnt seem anyone else caught it) that this man has in fact lost his marbles.

Honestly, there's something going on underneath the surface. I don't see this at all being about choice, its more to do imo with mental health. People seem quick to jump to conclusions about him being a bum or what not. Sometimes, more often than not, it's just not that simple...

My Word is my Honor, and my Honor is my Life ~ Sturm Brightblade
Passion, yet Serenity
Knighted Apprentice Arisaig
TM- RyuJin

Last edit: 25 Nov 2016 18:48 by Zenchi. Reason: my rice krispies told me to...

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25 Nov 2016 19:22 #265908 by Kohadre

Replied by Kohadre on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

My understanding of the Jedi way is that as followers of the faith, we are called first and foremost into duty and service within our communities to improve the lives of those around us.

As such, my attire is cargo pants, a dark denim cargo vest, and a sling pack. The pockets within each article are usually filled with first aid items (I am certified in Adult, child, and infant CPR), some extra cash, a personal ministry book (ordained minister outside of TOTJO), and other items which I have found come to the aid of others such as s flashlights, duck tape, etc.

I don't outline this for the purpose of bragging, but to hopefully reinforce that it is our purpose to dress in a functional manner and serve others. This man seems to be more concerned on imposing his way of life onto others, regardless of the social discomfort it seems to cause his community. I'd consider it differently if he serves as a religious official / monastic, but that does not seem to be the case here.

So long and thanks for all the fish

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25 Nov 2016 19:39 #265911 by Edan

Replied by Edan on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

Alexandre Orion wrote: One doesn't have to wear a robe every day and carry a lightsabre to be considered a [strike]"f*cking weirdo"[/strike] full time Jedi

"Evil is always possible. And goodness is eternally difficult."

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25 Nov 2016 22:50 - 25 Nov 2016 22:51 #265950 by Kohadre

Replied by Kohadre on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

Edan wrote:
Alexandre Orion wrote: One doesn't have to wear a robe every day and carry a lightsabre to be considered a [strike]"f*cking weirdo"[/strike] [strike]full time Jedi[/strike]
Professional cosplayer.

So long and thanks for all the fish

Last edit: 25 Nov 2016 22:51 by Kohadre.

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25 Nov 2016 23:18 #265957 by Carlos.Martinez3

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I'm pretty sure he's ... Content. Might be the wrong word. The " problem" I see is truly my own here. Any person who find their calling I am hands down for it. Go be you, because I am certainly me! I support the guy , hell I support those who find themselves on their path. Why is it va sad thing or frustrating or even hate brewed to see some one else's desissions for their life? Hmm I say good on you brother. Be well! I'm glad to know your story. Be 100% you, all the time . I wish more individuals were " like " him in their own personal persuits.

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26 Nov 2016 00:37 #265970 by Manu

Replied by Manu on topic Man Lives as Full Time Grey Jedi

Zenchi wrote: Thank you Akkarin for the tip, watched this and I can attest by watching, (doesnt seem anyone else caught it) that this man has in fact lost his marbles.

Honestly, there's something going on underneath the surface. I don't see this at all being about choice, its more to do imo with mental health. People seem quick to jump to conclusions about him being a bum or what not. Sometimes, more often than not, it's just not that simple...

I could not watch the video either before. I'm inclined to agree with you Zenchi, and thus very strongly disagree with Silas and Carlos.

The pessimist complains about the wind;
The optimist expects it to change;
The realist adjusts the sails.
- William Arthur Ward

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