Greetings, fellow Jedi, and welcome to our October gathering as we reflect on the interplay of foolishness and wisdom in our lives. Today, we draw inspiration from Angeles Arriene's words and embark on a journey that leads us to seek answers to four profound questions that resonate deeply with the Jedi way.
In "The Four-fold Way," Arriene invites us to contemplate these four questions:
- When did you stop dancing?
- When did you stop singing?
- When did you stop being enchanted by stories?
- When did you stop finding comfort in the sweet territory of silence?
As we explore these questions, we will discover how they relate to the paths of the warrior, teacher, healer, and visionary, and how they guide us in the pursuit of wisdom.
I. When did you stop dancing?
The Jedi Path, much like a dance, is a delicate balance of movement, agility, and grace. Our wisdom comes from knowing when to move forward and when to stand still, when to defend and when to let go. In our lives, have we stopped dancing to the rhythm of the Force? Have we become rigid and lost touch with the natural flow of life, where we should adapt and embrace change?
Foolishness is often found in resisting change, whereas wisdom lies in the acceptance of the ever-evolving dance of existence. The Jedi, in their mastery, not only dance to the Force's tune but also guide others to find their rhythm.
II. When did you stop singing?
The melody of life is often drowned out by the clamor of the world. Yet, the Jedi know that even in the face of darkness, they must remain true to their inner song. Singing is not just a literal act but a metaphor for expressing the light within. The foolish choose silence when they should speak, while the wise sing their truth even in the face of adversity.
As Jedi, our wisdom is not just in wielding lightsabers but in raising our voices against injustice, in speaking for the voiceless, and in singing the song of compassion and love.
III. When did you stop being enchanted by stories?
In the vast tapestry of the galaxy, stories weave the threads of our existence. The Jedi have a rich history of stories that guide us, teaching us the errors of the past and the potential of the future. Foolishness comes when we ignore these stories, thinking we know better. Wisdom emerges when we embrace the wisdom of those who came before us and are enchanted by the stories that carry lessons and values.
Let us remain open to the wisdom of the ages, for in those stories, we find the guidance we need on our Jedi path.
IV. When did you stop finding comfort in the sweet territory of silence?
Silence is not the absence of sound but the presence of serenity. In a galaxy filled with chaos and conflict, the Jedi find solace and wisdom in moments of quiet reflection. The foolish might fill their lives with noise, distractions, and chatter, never allowing themselves to listen to the Force's subtle whispers.
Wisdom arises when we seek solace in silence, allowing our minds to clear and our spirits to be in tune with the Force. It is in these quiet moments that we can hear the wisdom of the Force itself.
As we reflect on these four profound questions and the interplay of foolishness and wisdom, let us remember that the Jedi way is not a destination but a lifelong journey. Embracing the wisdom found in these questions is our path to becoming true warriors, teachers, healers, and visionaries.
In our dance with the Force, may we find our rhythm.
In our songs, may we express our truth.
In our stories, may we discover the wisdom of the ages.
In our silence, may we find our inner peace and the guidance of the Force.
