Good day everyone, welcome.
Life is full of daily encounters where we must engage with others, whether through work, family, or community. Our philosophy, rooted in balance, compassion, and wisdom, offers profound insights on how we can navigate these interactions with boldness yet remain respectful. As followers of the Force, Jedi teach us to align our actions with inner peace and the collective harmony of the universe. In this sermon, we explore how to embody both courage and respect in our daily engagements.
Boldness, in the Jedi context, is not about arrogance or dominance. It is about having the courage to stand up for what is right, to act with integrity, and to make decisions that serve the greater good. Jedi teach that “there is no emotion, there is peace,” meaning we are encouraged to act with confidence, but always rooted in serenity. Boldness becomes a tool for positive change when it is driven by a deep connection to the Force and therefore, the people around us.
One of the Jedi Tenets states, “Focus is the art of pruning the irrelevant and pouring the best of your mind into what you are doing.” Boldness does not mean acting recklessly but making decisions with purpose, focusing our energy on that which matters, and doing so with determination. The Force guides Jedi to act with intention, staying aligned with a higher goal—whether in standing up for a colleague or confronting injustice.
While Jedi are taught to be bold, respect is also a core principle that cannot be neglected. We practice humility and compassion, understanding that every person is a part of the interconnected web of the Force. We have all read, “I am a Jedi, an instrument of peace; where there is hatred, I shall bring love; where there is injury, pardon.” This creed emphasizes that our words and actions should never cause harm. Respect is fundamental to understanding the shared life between us all
Respecting others begins with listening—being attuned to the energy of those around us. Jedi practice empathy, understanding the emotions of others and responding in a way that fosters harmony. “Where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy,” this reminding us that we must respond to others with kindness, bringing light into difficult situations.
In the practice of respect, Jedi learn to hold space for differing perspectives. The Jedi Code offers guidance: “There is no chaos, there is harmony.” We are reminded that even in the face of differing viewpoints or disagreement, there is always a way to engage in a respectful dialogue, seeking the balance of the Force.
Jediism encourages us to live in balance, and this applies directly to how we approach boldness and respect. It is through cultivating both traits that we find harmony. Boldness without respect can lead to conflict and division, while respect without boldness can result in passivity or inaction. The Jedi are not passive observers but active participants in bringing balance to the world.
We also practice non-attachment, which helps in maintaining respect even when bold actions may be misunderstood or challenged. “There is no death, there is the Force,” reminds us that our actions are not about ego or outcomes but about contributing to the greater flow of life. This non-attachment frees us to be bold without becoming consumed by the reactions or judgments of others. This freedom is not to be underestimated. It is something I often have to meditate on, as some lessons are harder to keep to than others
So. Practically, how does all this work in our daily interactions, we can embody the ideals of our order by being bold and respectful by approaching conversations with clarity and intention. Whether at work, with family, or in the community, we can ask ourselves: How can I engage in this conversation with confidence and purpose? How can I ensure that my actions uplift and respect the people around me?
For example, in a heated discussion, we would not shy away from speaking the truth but would do so with compassion. They would listen deeply, understanding the emotions at play, and offer their words in a way that fosters peace rather than division. Boldness allows us to speak out against injustice, but respect ensures that we do so in a way that acknowledges the dignity of others.
We strive to be instruments of peace and harmony. In our daily lives, we must find the balance between boldness and respect. Boldness enables us to act with courage and integrity, while respect ensures that we honor the dignity and humanity of others. Together, these qualities help us navigate the challenges of life with grace and wisdom, always staying connected to the Force that binds us all. Let us strive to be Jedi in every interaction—bold, yet respectful, guided by the ever-present flow of the Force.
May the Force be with you.
