What is a Light Jedi? This question has been asked by several FA ‘Generations,’ and each of those generations has always come up with different meanings. To each person, even, the definition of Light Jedi can vary substantially.

Wookiepedia defines Jedi in its history as follows: “Originally formed as a philosophical study group situated on the planet Tython, the Jedi became revered as guardians of peace and justice in the galaxy. As mystical wielders of the Force, and of their glowing, signature lightsabers, their powers inspired all citizens in the galaxy. The calm, considered demeanor of the Jedi made them ideal brokers of peace in times of conflict or dispute.”

It is not surprising that the philosophy of the ‘Jedi’ of Star Wars is so easily integrated into the beliefs of the Force Academy Jedi – For the most part, the Force Academy Jedi are religious people, and all of them are spiritual. The Jedi of George Lucas’ Star Wars were derived from many religious sects, and naturally were a very spiritual people. However, it is not the analysis of the Star Wars, lightsaber wielding Jedi that we are contemplating here. It is us, as the Jedi of the Earth, who exist in this universe, in this time, in this galaxy. So, what is it exactly that drives us towards that goal of being a Jedi?

For many, it’s a personal journey. I know for me, it certainly was. My personal definition of Jedi revolves around honor, integrity, and the value of life. My pursuit of being the ideal Jedi has lead to me to pursue becoming an EMT, then later influenced my decision to become a volunteer. Currently, it keeps me as a volunteer, despite all of the drama and headaches that come with a volunteer agency (If any of you were ever a volunteer firefighter or EMT, you probably know exactly what I mean by that). We each make lifestyle changes that fit our personal views of what a Jedi is. Some of us exercise more, some of us make more time to walk on the beach, and some of us even look for every opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others. However, it’s important to remember that as Jedi, we are not only looking to make a positive different, but we are looking to also do so in as minimally an interfering way as possible. This is actually very similar to the goal of the Nursing industry: Get a being back to their normal or even an improved state of health as soon as possible, and send them on their way. We do not desire to make others dependant on us – our desire is to help others as minimally as possible. The positives to this? Well, first, we can help more people. Second, we don’t fully burden ourselves. Third, and most important, we don’t become too attached. A Jedi is constantly looking to maintain an objective approach to as many problems as present themselves in their lives. These personal challenges and struggles define us, and either reinforce or change our moral character and convictions. A Jedi should always be open to change, and always be considerate of the views of others, even when that Jedi feels those views are incorrect. As Jedi, we are honor-bound to at the very least consider all options. Also, as human beings, we can often find both the humor and the intrigue behind the views of others. Specifically because we can only physically see through our own eyes, we each see only that one experience fully, and form our opinions based on that one experience. We’ve all heard from our respective parents, “Told ya so,” or “You should’ve listened…,” mainly because as humans, we like to experience things for ourselves. We always think that things are different for us, and to an extent, there is truth in that. As Jedi, the same is true: we are all different. We each have our own convictions, our own truths, and our own lifestyles. In truth, the only true connection all of us have here is Star Wars. It is ironic that a fictional movie written with a religious basis is what draws us together.

To summarize, ‘Jedi’ has many definitions, and as I said, all of them are very personal. The true goal we have is that spiritual development, which ties into the Wookiepedia definition of Jedi as a philosophical study group. I encourage all students to look for that personal definition that suits them, and also keep in mind, that definition will always be changing as we all grow spiritually as individuals and as a group. It’s important to keep that change occurring, as it encourages growth. Without growth, the idea will only die out, and you will become bored. So, grow away, and continue to participate here. Your learning can stimulate the learning of others, and most likely it will be their thoughts to help you grow your own.