The Force
“Luminous beings are we…not this crude matter.” – Yoda, The Empire Strikes Back
Who wasn’t enthralled by the Star Wars movies growing up? The decade in which you were born dictates which trilogy first captured your attention.
While the franchise itself is cinematically exceptional in its own right, it would never have made the cultural impact it has if it weren’t for the fundamental human struggle that is represented in each installment. Not one of the characters central to the plot is exempt from some internal discord or, at the very least, dissonance between behavior and beliefs.
It is this tension that makes the stories so accessible and beloved. And no one is more poetic in his reflections on the eternal tug of war between our light and dark natures than the Jedi Master Yoda.
“Adventure. Excitement. A Jedi craves not these things.” –The Empire Strikes Back. Who, when striving to demonstrate the magnanimity of servant leadership, isn’t tempted by the same ego-driven thoughts that plagued Luke throughout his Jedi training?
When faced with the next major project, the next mile to run, or simply, the next item on our to-do list, again Yoda’s wisdom is a guiding force. “Do. Or do not. There is no try.” – The Empire Strikes Back. His words remove our excuses and refocus our attention.
Lastly, Yoda reminds us of the ultimate result of harboring fear… “Fear is the path to the dark side…fear leads to anger…anger leads to hate…hate leads to suffering.” – The Phantom Menace. While the antithetical sentiment is not stated as directly, it holds equally true. Love is the path to the light…it leads to joy, gratitude, and forgiveness…it is the foundation of all emotional and spiritual growth. It is the force for good in our lives.
Happy Star Wars Day…May the 4th (Force) Be With You!
