The Force: Shadow JediShadows@forceacademy.com The Force is traditionally broken down into two unique aspects Dark and Light. Yet the question is often asked, "is the Force really so polarized?". If the Dark and Light sides of the Force are like two sides of one coin then there would be no confusion. However the Force is an energy field, and such cannot be classified in this way. The force in essence is pure energy neither good nor evil, these are sentient concepts and are injected into the force by conduits or wielders of the Force. Therefore we should not consider the Force as Light and Dark sides, for the Force cannot be classified into such opposing categories. "What can you do against the lunatic who is more intelligent than yourself, who gives your arguments a fair hearing and then simply persists in his lunacy?"DuneSea If the Force is not black and white, what is in-between?The Shadow Side; Force users on the edge of Dark and Light, using them in harmony and achieving a balance such that they follow neither side fanatically. Moreover Shadow Side Force users adapt their Force ability to the situation they are in. A Shadow user will not use the Light side when what is called for is the Dark. Most Dark Side users give themselves completely to the Darkside and use their abilities only to commit evil acts of hate, anger, aggression and fear. Whereas a Light Side user only uses the Force for good such as defense and knowledge.Is the Shadow Side a healthy balance? "A student must find balance within their own hearts, whether they follow the Light or Dark paths is not something we can dictate."Force Master This is a decision only the Force User themselves can make, it is not the purpose of this Academy to tell students how they should use and pursue the Force. Guidance and knowledge are what we provide.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #1The ShadowsShadowside@forceacademy.com First when looking to understand the shadow side you must look at the dark and light sides. The dark and light sides are constantly at war with each other over supremacy, there is a reason for this and I will get to it in a moment. The Shadow side has no conflict it is in balance with itself.The reason the dark and light sides are at war is because they both are created by ambition. The ambition causes them to need a counter balance, according to the scientific law for every reaction there is an equal and opposite reaction. Therefore the only way they can exist is to balance each other out, some people call this a symbiotic relationship, meaning they benefit from each other, however in this case that is not an exact definition because they not only benefit from one another but are completely dependent on one another. The Shadow side on the other hand is completely independent from the other two sides of the force. It does not need them to survive and in fact they are a hindrance to the shadow side, keeping it from achieving its full potential. The Shadow side has its own balance of good and evil and therefore does not need a counterpart. The shadow side is where the force flows most freely, because there is no conflict in the force. If you think about it, There are only two ways to exist in the force. The mutual existence of the light and dark side, which consequently is where most people are. The other would be the balanced existence of the shadow side as we call it. People in the shadow side often have the most fulfilling lives because 1: there is no conflict and 2: You fully appreciate both aspects of the force because you live through both of them. Of course there are many trains of thought on the subject. I hope this first lecture was Insightful and helped give all force users a better grasp on the philosophies of the Shadow side. Thank you for your patience and may the force be with you.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #2The Shadow Side?Shadowside@forceacademy.com The Shadow side is steeped in mystery, some believe it does not exist and still others believe that the shadow side is where those with no commitment and no spirit dwell. As a new Force Adept begins their great and wide reaching journey towards self discovery and spiritual and physical harmony they will be tempted by many outside influences. There are the archetypal Dark and Light side beliefs, there is no emotion ... etc. It is true that at the early stages of development it is very difficult for an Adept to balance between two powerful poles: the Light and Dark sides. Once an Adept has mastered the basic skills which are the foundations of all force use, i.e. meditation and physical training then they are ready to choose a path. There are many paths open to a Force Adept, and contrary to belief it is possible to change from any of these paths to another. This is not to say that any change is not incredibly difficult, and requires an unrelenting commitment however change is indeed possible. To harness the power of the Force, an inner peace and a deep knowledge of your own body and mind is required. This may be reached through meditation or other forms, however it must be attained for a balance of body and mind is essential. The Shadow Side is a balance, it is in the middle of the two polar aspects of Light and Dark. It is a Shadow users belief that there are situations where differing poles can be and are of use. A Shadow Adept is one who is not of the Light and not of the Dark, we use our emotions and our knowledge to achieve our goals. We help others when they need help, however we help ourselves also.A Shadow Adept uses means and resources when they are necessary or required. In essence we are the balance of the Force, we are few and our group is largely unknown. As a Master of at one time Light and at another Dark I have come to see that there is knowledge and truth beyond comprehension in the Shadows, we have no strict rules to bound our faith in ourselves and our beliefs. A Shadow Adept is a very special Force Adept, we use the benefits and the knowledge from both aspects of the force. We hold no allegiances to any faith other than that which our own heart tells us to follow. We are trustworthy and honest, we tell things how they are and see them without tinted glasses.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #3I have learned...Shadowside@forceacademy.com During my time as a Shadow Master and my time as a human I have learned many things about the Force and life in general. I have never seen these things that we have all experienced in one form or another put so succinctly as you see them below.• I've learned that no matter how much I care, some people just don't care back. • I've learned that it takes years to build up trust, and only seconds to destroy it. • I've learned that it's not what you have in your life but who you have in your life that counts. • I've learned that you shouldn't compare yourself to the best others can do but to the best you can do. • I've learned that it's not what happens to people that's important. It's what they do about it. • I've learned that you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life. • I've learned that no matter how thin you slice it, there are always two sides. • I've learned that it's taking me a long time to become the person I want to be. • I've learned that it's a lot easier to react than it is to think. • I've learned that you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them.• I've learned that you can keep going long after you think you can't. • I've learned that we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel. • I've learned that either you control your attitude or it controls you. • I've learned that heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences. • I've learned that learning to forgive takes practice. • I've learned that there are people who love you dearly, but just don't know how to show it. • I've learned that my best friend and I can do anything or nothing and have the best time. • I've learned that sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down will be the ones to help you get back up. • I've learned that sometimes when I'm angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel. • I've learned that true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. • I've learned that maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had and what you've learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you've celebrated. • I've learned that you should never tell a child their dreams are unlikely or outlandish. Few things are more humiliating, and what a tragedy it would be if they believed it. • I've learned that no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that. • I've learned that it isn't always enough to be forgiven by others. Sometimes you have to learn to forgive yourself. • I've learned that our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become. • I've learned that sometimes when my friends fight, I'm forced to choose sides even when I don't want to. • I've learned that just because two people argue, it doesn't mean they don't love each other. And just because they don't argue, it doesn't mean they do. I've learned that sometimes you have to put the individual ahead of their actions. • I've learned that we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change. • I've learned that you shouldn't be so eager to find out a secret. It could change your life forever. • I've learned that two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different. • I've learned that no matter how you try to protect your children, they will eventually get hurt and you will hurt in the process. • I've learned that no matter the consequences, those who are honest with themselves get farther in life. • I've learned that your life can be changed in a matter of hours by people who don't even know you. • I've learned that even when you think you have no more to give, when a friend cries out to you, you will find the strength to help. • I've learned that the people you care most about in life are taken from you too soon. • I've learned that it's hard to determine where to draw the line between being nice and not hurting people's feelings and standing up for what you believe.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #4ControlShadowside@forceacademy.com "Control defines a master, if you are to be a master than you must obviously have supreme control over the area in which you study."For a shadow Jedi control means the ability to go from the extremes of both light and dark, at any given moment. A shadow master has complete control over all aspects of the force. This appears to make the master unstable but in fact a shadow master remains at peace at all times. The reason this is possible is that a shadow master has no restrictions on what he believes is moral and right, and what he believes is hateful and powerful. A shadow masters has no ideals, his ideals are that of accepting life in all its aspects. This presents the master with limitless options and limitless control. A light Jedi has control. He has control on only half of the force though, on only one aspect. He has control over the light side, and is thus a master, However he has no control over the dark side and is thus helpless when dark action is called for. This is likewise for dark Jedi, however for these Jedi(both dark and light), winning and living in harmony are not always there goals. Light Jedi seek to protect the lives of others rather than better there selves. A light Jedi does not seek out conflict but still has no choice when he or others are threatened, he is in essence a slave of the light side. This does not mean that the light Jedi are wrong in there beliefs, they chose a path were they would not be able to find peace...they did this for the good of others and are therefore to be commended. Dark Jedi seek personal gain, They are masters over the dark side and therefore have control over there dark emotions exactly like the light Jedi. They are meant to attack if they did not attack they would cease to be of a dark nature they simply wait until the time is right, and they can obviously not live a life of peace.Many people often do not know what peace is, peace does not mean living a life without conflict i.e. never fighting, arguing, etc. it means never having any conflict within yourself, it means that you never have to become frustrated or lose control over your emotions. Control is the essence of peace, Freedom is the essence of control. For a shadow Jedi there is no conflict, he is at peace with himself and the world around him, he is free to take any action necessary to accomplish his goals.A shadow Jedi may do light or dark deeds, without ever following a light or dark path. He moves with the flow of the force in any direction it may go. He has control over all aspects of the force and can therefore take any action at any time.Thank you for your patience and may the force be with you all.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #5TrainingShadowside@forceacademy.com When you train in the force you need to be mindful of the dark and light sides. The ultimate goal of a shadow master is to transcend the limits of physical reality and become one with the force. Do what must be done to accomplish your goals, but also keep in mind at what price is your objective attained. Before one can move with the force and free himself of decisions he must first learn to balance his feelings mechanically, before they become automatic and fluent, thus dictated by the force. During training, Physical, or force exercises You should clear your mind, relax your muscles(do not allow them to be tense or have forced movement), And let go of your spirit. What I mean by letting go of your spirit is to Let go of your ambition, let go of what drives you and just be completely free. Once you have done this you will be moving with the flow of the force, Your actions and the actions of the force will cease to be separate. You must let go of every hindrance, stereotype, belief, and self set limit you have and accept the reality of the force.If ever you become overly frustrated sit down relax your muscles, clear your mind and let go of your consciences. You will enter a deep state of focus, at this point You will be strongest with the force...you may see events from the past, moments of the future or you may be able to manipulate your surroundings. However none of this matters if you can't balance light and dark. You must balance them until the become one, The Shadow Side is balance, It is harmony, It is true peace. Thank you for your patience and may the force be with you all in your quests to become JEDI.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #6TrainingShadowside@forceacademy.com For all force users, Training is important. But before you embark on your training you must first grasp the philosophies of that which you seek to master. I have been posting separate lectures on philosophy, Lecture #1, #4, #6, all deal with the philosophy of the shadow Jedi. Now it is time to focus on the training aspect of a shadow Jedi. When you begin you should focus on the physical, then progress to the mental, and then finally the spiritual aspects of the force.Physical: You must train the body, so that you gain complete control over it. Flexibility is important, as well as strengthening of the heart and muscles. No aspect of the body must be left out. Physical Force training; when you train physically, realize that all of your strength and endurance flow from the same force that drives the universe, this will help you with your exercise. Mental: When you tap into the mental side you must attempt to let go of the way that you think and react, You must strive to let go of all inhibitions. You must strip away all of the unnecessary aspects of your personality. This will make you aware of your surroundings and the living force. At this stage you will feel the force and begin to interpret other peoples thoughts and intentions as if they were your own.Mental Training; You must alter your perception, "What you believe is Reality"... Trevor Robson, You will focus on meditative aspects. During meditations you must become at peace with your self and enter your unconscious mind. Once you are in this deep meditative state you can change what you believe. You do this by releasing the negative aspects within you, you must strive to strip away all the false misconceptions you hold so dear, I.E. I'm no one special, this is impossible, any constraints you may have placed on yourself. This will help you reach a state of oneness with the force. Once you reach that state with the force you can enter the spiritual aspects and learn to control the force and how it affects you. Spiritual: I will only describe this to you, I wish it were easy to describe, I will not make any attempt to instruct anyone in this aspect of the force. You should only learn this from a qualified master, who can train you in person. Attempting such advanced studies over the internet will only dishearten you to the point were you believe it to be impossible. On a spiritual level you have become one with the living force, you move within it and control the world around you. At this level the only way you will get into a fight is if you allow it. You also control, and can alter the minds around you. The difference between mental and spiritual can be best described by obi-wan himself, "You can feel the force, Luke, You cannot control it". At this level you begin to control the force around you, this is the level of mastery.If There are any force users here who merely want to learn to control the force, I suggest you re evaluate your intentions. Controlling the force without first making yourself a conduit, Is like building the fifth floor of a building without any foundation. Also It should be noted that the use of the word spiritual implies the essence of control over events in your life, It was not intended to be of a religious nature and should not be taken offensively as that was not my intention.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #7MeditationShadowside@forceacademy.com Meditation, that will be the focus of this lecture, enhancing the mental capabilities and attuning yourself with the force. Meditation 1.) Sit still in a quiet room free of distractions, white noise or natural sounds may actually contribute to this meditation and others. Raise your eyes to a forty five degree angle until your eye lids fall over them and your eyes close, keep your eyes at this angle, it helps to get you into a meditative state. Once you are calm, begin to envision a large shaft of white light. The light rises up your spinal cord from your tail bone to the top of your head. When you breath in imagine pulling in positive energy and when you exhale imagine that you are expelling the negative energy within yourself. With every breath that you take in the shaft of light should slowly expand laterally, encircling you. Repeat the breath and envisioning process until the light has completely engulfed your being. Purpose of Meditation 1.) To help you be at peace with yourself and give you better moral judgment and a more positive outlook. Meditation 2.) Repeat the process of the first meditation, calm yourself, raise the eyes. However this time when you begin to meditate envision a fire within your belly. When you inhale the fire loses flames and the coal glows intensely, when you exhale imagine an explosion of flames. Breaths on the inhale should be brisk and deep, breaths on the exhale should be relaxed and drawn out. Repeat this as long as is necessary. Purpose of meditation 2.) To use the force to regenerate ones energy. Meditation 3.) When you reach a meditative state begin to imagine that all of your self inflicted limitations are being stripped away, Imagine that everything you once believed to be impossible is now not only possible but is second nature. This meditation is the most important. You should do it everyday until you feel completely free from all constraints, Focus on a different limitation every time you meditate. Purpose of Meditation 3.) This meditation is designed to help you become more attuned with the force, and make you a better conduit.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #8Morality of the Shadow SideShadowside@forceacademy.com Myself and a friend of mine JediKnight G have often talked about the differences in philosophy between our two aspects of the force. His views are very clear to most Jedi, but if you seek clarification talk to him I will not speak for him, However I wish to clarify the morality of the shadow side.First off I have often stated that the shadow side is a balance between the polar realms of light and dark force aspects. This does not mean that a shadow user must commit himself to dark action in any way, nor does it mean that he must commit himself to light action in any way. The first lesson a shadow Jedi must learn is that all aspects of the force light and dark have the potential to have either a negative outcome or a positive. This philosophy means that you can take dark action and have a positive out come. Likewise you can take light action and have a dark outcome. A shadow Jedi does not alter his own personal beliefs of what is right and what is wrong but rather accepts the truth that they are one in the same. I personally am of a rather light nature, my intentions are always light. However my actions are not always light. I can take dark action to fulfill my light intentions.A shadow Jedi can be of a dark nature and take light action to perform a dark intention. What a shadow Jedi is taught is that the force aspects light in dark can have any potential outcome that is what we are trained to master. I have wrote down many examples of this. However the point that must be remembered is that when you have a light Jedi he is committed to light action with light intention, whereas a dark Jedi is committed to dark action with dark intention. That is what it means to follow those paths. The path of a shadow Jedi is that of a free dark Jedi or a free light Jedi. We Never change our intentions, however we have the freedom to use any action necessary to reach our goals. I hope I have clarified At least a little bit, but if you like it simple I will leave you with this passage. "There is room in the universe for all paradox."...Teaching of the Mikkyo Temples.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #9Shadow Side PowersShadowside@forceacademy.com It is very clear which force powers are used by Light Jedi and which are used by Dark Jedi, Shadow Jedi have a unique force inventory at their disposal. A Shadow Adept can use both Light and Dark Adept Force powers, however they have their own special techniques separate from both Light and Dark.The techniques are variations of standard Light and Dark powers however they differ in that they are not as polarized as both Light and Dark. Light adepts most potent force magic is arguably the Force Blind, in which opponents are blinded by light. Dark adepts have Force Lightning which is used as a weapon to burn and rupture blood vessels and cells throughout the body. A shadow adept has a combination of these powers at their disposal; the ability to 'darken' their opponents vision whilst sending out tendrils of darkness which taps opponents energy. This is perhaps the most potent of a Shadow adepts powers, the ability to reduce opponents vision whilst taping their energy can tip the balance of any light fight.However shadow Jedi rarely engage in combat, as stated before shadow Jedi are a secretive sect of Jedi. Shadow adepts have been around for centuries, some say they evolved before Light and Dark, their powers are both similar and unique in comparison to both Dark and Light Jedi.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #10Virtues of the Shadow SideShadowside@forceacademy.com First off a persons own views determine what his actions will be when it comes to the shadow Jedi. There is no discrimination on the shadow side, anyone regardless of views has the right to learn to use the force. A shadow Jedi is taught from the beginning to unlearn all of his concepts about life, the value of good and evil mean nothing to a shadow Jedi. He unlearns pain, fear, and all other inhibiting factors. A shadow Jedi is taught that any action can have an infinite number of outcomes, knowing this makes the shadow Jedi limitless. There are no rules placed on the shadow Jedi, the reason behind this is that there is no reason for the rules, shadow Jedi live at peace with themselves whether they be dark or light, therefore they have no use for rules. The way they obtain this level of peace is to realize that there is no difference between good and evil, right and wrong, these are just perceptions of reality and not reality itself. Reality is limitless and moral less, reality in itself has room for all actions good or negative. Another interesting point is that a good action in one persons eyes can be a negative in another, and vice versa. There are an infinite number of possible outcomes and interpretations for any action, a shadow Jedi realizes this and knows that if he takes a negative action it may just have a light effect.A master can manipulate the outcome in many ways to achieve his goals, he can control whether or not a negative action has a light effect. The first step to learning how to use the force is finding reality. Reality is every impression you sense, it is everything and nothing is to be excluded as false, the skeptic is blind to the ways of the force, accept that nothing is impossible. Once you have done this you will be opened up to a whole new world, a world with direction and purpose. You must accept the fact that there are no rules to life. Once you have done this your mind will be free from constraints. A perfect example of this would be a woman whose child becomes trapped under a car and she temporally forgets that she can not lift the car. The mind is limitless, the only limits on the mind are those we are taught to put on them, the mind controls the body, therefore the constraints placed on the mind directly affect the abilities inherent in your own physical being. Once you have freed your mind you will be ready to be instructed in the ways to control the force.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #11What defines Balance?Shadowside@forceacademy.com I have noticed that many things in life depend on your perception of them. For a shadow Jedi you must realize that for every good there is a bad. For every right there is a wrong. If someone spills grape juice on your brief case don't become angry just realize that in the end something good has to come from it. The point here is that it doesn't mean anything, life is only what you make it. When you were a child you were hypnotized by your surroundings, you learned to value material possessions, you learned that you cannot achieved your dreams...Likewise you could have been hypnotized by a positive environment, you could have learned success and you could have learned that the person that dies with the most toys...still dies. If you were not lucky enough to be raised in a nurturing environment than that doesn't mean that you have to live with the imprints of the past...You can change them, Life is what you believe...choose to believe in something fulfilling. A shadow Jedi is not heartless, nor is he/she blinded by his need for fairness...there is a point where you are forced to put yourself above others, if you have not experienced it than you are either a liar or have never truly lived. A shadow Jedi doesn't live for ideals...He lives for life, he accepts as it is, and loves it as it is, and hates it as it is. This doesn't mean that he/she is confused about life, what it means is that he/she knows that life doesn't always favor one side or the other...No one can always be right so instead of trying to be right or just a shadow Jedi just moves with it, that is the only way not to fail, if life turns sour do not become discontent, know that eventually it will come back to balance and back to peace...likewise do not over indulge in the light aspects of life to do so is to invite downfall. Know this life is a balance...Sometimes there is a violent disturbance but eventually it all comes back to harmony...instead of fighting the consequences of life move with them...Life is what you make of it, if you fight life you will lose if you move with the force and accept it than you will be invincible. Control...It is what we all seek, we seek the ability to control our lives and destiny's, but how many of you out there think that you can make the force bend to your will's at all times, I feel sorry for those of you who do. The path to control is not the path of resistance it is the path of balance and peace. Control is realized through living a life of peace and balance, it can not be attained in any other sense. For those of you who think you can fight the force, I suggest you seriously reconsider your approach to life. I am considered by many to be a master but I will tell you this right now, I am but a learner in the ways of the force...I have awakened in a world of infinite possibilities and am learning for the first time in my life what it is to be alive. I hope you can follow this path as well and live the life you deserve.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #12Meditation/Self HypnosisShadowside@forceacademy.com Through Meditation one can reach a level where he/she can control ones own inner perceptions...this is very important because this is the gateway to the force. Only after one eliminates all of the inhibiting factors of the conscious mind can one feel the force. I will explain it like this:We were all created by A force, whatever name you choose to give it is irrelevant. We are inherently connected to the force that created the universe, we see this force working in all things around us. It is also true that in being created by this force and being connected to this force we can influence this force...IF we couldn't than we would cease to be alive. However as intellectual minds we have chosen to rule this out as impossible, because our current laws of physics deem it so. However physics cannot measure spirit, and to deny the existence of spirit is to deny the existence of the universe. In placing these blocks we simply limit our force connection by believing that the force doesn't exist, if you don't believe in something than you will not acknowledge its presence even when it stares you in the face. So in order to feel, use, and learn from the force we must lift these mental blocks. This is not as easy as it may sound, you have been beating these beliefs into your head since you were born. So to accomplish this I have decided to copy down and post a section from a book entitled The Mystic Arts Of The Ninja. The section is on the art of self hypnosis called Saiminjutsu. This self hypnosis will allow you to change your sub conscious beliefs and allow you to "Feel, and Use" the force, whatever you believe it to be...be warned that this is not for the ignorant or close minded.Saiminjutsu: In contrast to classical Zen-style meditation, hypnotism works with similar mechanics but in different applications and dynamics. In meditation, the practitioner attains the relaxed and aware inner-directed state and then shuts down the active mind in order to listen behind the subconscious. In hypnotism, the practitioner attains the relaxed and inner-directed state and then switches on the active mind in order to talk into the subconscious. Move to a comfortable room free from distractions and begin to stretch. You want to be wearing loose fitting clothing so as not to have it become a distraction. Sit in a relaxed and comfortable position while maintaining a firm foundation. Focus your eyes on a point 45 degrees above normal...as if you were looking at the point were the wall meets the roof. Now begin to relax your mind and just enjoy the feeling of relaxing your mind...begin to notice the strain in having your eyes open, begin to count from 9 to 0. With each number increasing awareness and slowly closing the eyes. By the time you reach zero your eyes should close almost on there own accord. You should be completely aware of the energies in your body and the impressions of your environment on your physical being. Once you have in essence left behind your body and are completely relaxed begin to focus on the aspect that you wish to change about your personality, note this will work, with every breath in concentrate more on changing that aspect...this should produce a near immediate affect. Notice that this is not a "Thought", thinking it will not work, that will bring you back into the conscious mind, while you are meditating allow an intention to arise in your mind. The intention should be the goal you wish to fulfill. Allow the intention to merge into your subconscious. After a while of meditating it will feel as though this "Change" has always been there. The goal will be fulfilled and your personality altered. That is the way to the force, anyone who claims to be a master of the force without knowing how to first be in touch with it is just a waste of valuable space.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #13GuidanceShadowside@forceacademy.com There are many adepts who approach the Knights and Masters of the Shadow side asking for guidance. "I wish to learn the way of the force, yet the light and dark confuse me. Which should I follow?” In reply we tell them; the force does not control your destiny, you do. To follow one aspect of the force is to only try one flavor of ice cream, or to spend your whole life in one town. You cannot condemn something you have not tried, and you cannot possibly understand the Force from one perspective. A shadow adept is trained to use the force as it should be used, we feel the ebb and flow, calling upon the vast energy when it is required. Many shadow adepts begin life as a light Jedi, training to see good in all. A light Jedi is selfless, thinking of others before themselves. This is a difficult task, light Jedi walk on a thin wire, to give in to their hate is to be all that is Dark. To devote themselves to the light is to deny all that they are. A Light Jedi Master has no life to themselves, devoted to the light they cannot fall in love, or become angry when they are mistreated for these are selfish emotions.Shadow adepts are 'not quite' fallen Light Jedi, they are Jedi who find a balance between their own needs and those of others. A shadow Jedi has the option of weighing up any situation they are in, using the force to achieve the best possible conclusion. If you have devoted yourself to the light think carefully about your choice. Do you want to give up all of your selfish emotions? Love, hate, anger, jealousy, pride, these are all selfish emotions which as a true follower of the light you would give up. I remain in the shadows, helping others when I can, when I feel it necessary, when I want to. I help myself, and those I care about following an aspect of the force which allows me a choice over my actions.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #14Ideals of the Shadow SideShadowside@forceacademy.com The shadow sides ideals are quite simple: Life is as it is and needs not be altered, but rather accepted. The more you fight your place in nature and strive for superficial goals the more pain you subject yourself to. Purpose of the Shadow Side: it is as it is in nature, balanced, perfect there is no need to alter a thing, only move with the flow of the force. We find enlightenment in the knowledge that we need nothing that we were not born with, and that we do not need to struggle for a better life, Life is how it is and it is a gift. Cherish it and nurture it, develop it, never subject it to conflict. Goals of Shadow Jedi: we are here to help others, we have learned that true happiness and peace is in ourselves, in the knowledge that we need nothing and need to change nothing, Life is always in balance...When the Light side has more numbers the Darkside gains potency. Our goal is to help keep the disturbances between the two small, if that means that we need to occasionally stop some of the light sides actions because they will cause great disturbance than that is what needs be. When the light side kills in self defense, and stops dark intentions it creates the opportunity for more evil to arise, and that creates further disturbance. Our Job is to neutralize the conflict all together. We are seekers of balance and peace, it is not our place to fight, but merely neutralize to put everything in a position of balance and peace. We our not concerned over what our actions are, light or dark, we know that on a universal perspective there is no light and dark Only balance, and balance is beneficial for all life. Ideals such as Just and compassion mean nothing, they are empty, to truly benefit man kind one must end petty conflict and like it or not those virtues create conflict.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #15Force Healing: Ability and UnderstandingShadowside@forceacademy.com First of all, I would like to recommend JediKnight G's excellent lecture on Force Healing in the Light side lecture hall. While these two lectures are of the same subject, I anticipate they will be very different, as this lecture will go into the actual art and science of healing. My thanks to JediKnight G for posting his views.Force (or energy) healing has been around for millennia. The actual practice varies, however, and it goes by many names: Therapeutic Touch, Reiki, light work, etc. for the purposes of this lecture, it will be referred to as energy or force healing.One of the most important (and sometimes shocking) things to realize about healing is that it is more of a skill to be learned than a gift. True, it helps to have a natural aptitude towards the force. But like a musical instrument, some are born with the ability and others learn it - either way, music is played.To understand healing and how it works, looking to science can provide some much needed insight. The energy field or aura that surrounds the body has been scientifically proven, modern technology now allows us to photograph it, read it and measure it. This energy, at its base atomic level, vibrates at different rates. Heat up the molecules, they begin to move faster and the matter expands - cool them down and they return to their original speed and size. The atomic vibration level of the energy of an inanimate object vibrates at a much lower level than a living being. They are made up of the same base molecules (as is the entire universe), but because of the different vibration rates - one breaths and the other doesn't. It is these varying vibration rates that is the key to force healing. The first step in healing is to understand how the force flows through the body. The Kundalini line (from the Hindu tradition) is probably the strongest current in the body - it flows between the top (or crown) of the head, down the spine to its base. From there, it branches out through the hands and feet - working to ground the individual and connecting them to the living force of the earth. It is this strong out pouring at the hands that is most commonly used with force healing.The actual act of healing is fairly simple. Placing the hands one to three inches above or directly on the body - this puts the "healer" in direct contact with that person's Prana or life force energy. As the force flows through the healer's hands and into the other person, on an energy/atomic level that person's living force is being raised to a higher vibration level. It is at this new level that the actual healing takes place. As more energy is drawn into the hurt area and the energy level raised, the body will begin to heal itself.At this point it is very important to note that the healer is acting as a conduit for the universal living force. Ironically, is *not* the healer that is actually doing the healing - instead, they are merely allowing the force to flow through them to the other person. It is not the energy that physically makes up the healer that is being given, but rather, it is the energy of the entire cosmos. If the healer "wills" the energy flow too much or is too intent - simply by the natural flow of how our energy works, the healer will be incorrectly using their own energy. This can leave them feeling drained, tired or in a bad mood - their energy has been given away and there is little left. It is interesting to note that some Light Jedi (due to their protective and generous nature) could possibly have a problem here, naturally giving their energy to those in need. While Shadow Jedi, because of their natural balance with the force, might have an easier time. But for everyone, this area of healing develops in time - the novice healer will sometimes walk away with a head ache from an incorrect healing session while a master could easily carry on a conversation with another person, watch tv, listen to music or read. For in reality, proper healing requires only a small amount of intention -- remember, the healer is only a conduit for the universal force. So, in placing the hands in the correct position (fingers closed and together, just above or directly on the body), the healer simply lets the energy flow out of their palms to the other person. Again, little thought is needed, this is simply happens naturally on an energy level. With practice, and this goes for any type of use of the force, the Jedi will begin to physically feel the force flowing through and around them. To give those who haven't experienced this (yet) a good idea of this sensation: place your palms together and slowly spread them apart to no more than 2-3 inches. Concentrate on sensing the energy flow between your palms - if at first you feel nothing, close the distance between your hands. Slowly, you will begin to sense an almost magnetic feeling between them - experiment with this. How far can you hold your hands apart before you can no longer feel it? Is it stronger at some distances than at others? Can you feel the energy move? Knowing and recognizing this part of working within the force is a very important beneficial step.This form of healing can be used for most anything - people or animals with physical or psychic wounds, yourself (*very* beneficial), plants, even machinery! The possibilities are endless and I've only given you a very small portion in this lecture. As with most serious arts, learning advanced healing is not something you can learn over the internet or from books. What you've read today is very basic and can be practiced (correctly, of course) by anyone. If anyone is interested in formal healing training, please feel free to contact me - there are books that are very helpful that can get you started and there are ways of finding masters in your area. I'd be happy to give recommendations for any of these.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #16Contradiction of Light JediShadowside@forceacademy.com This 'lecture' was sent to me by a Light Jedi, and although it has no direct relevance to the Shadow side I thought it would be interesting to analyze it from a Shadow perspective.In essence a Dark Jedi uses the force to create for themselves a god like presence. "If you do as god does enough times, you become as god is." Dark Jedi destroy what gives them their power, however there is a contradiction in the passage which was sent to me. How are the Jedi to prevent this "mutilation of life and of the force" without destroying dark Jedi. And if they do this do they not become as Dark Jedi are? Destroyers of life .... The Light side shows stark contradictions within itself, whereas at least the Dark side is true to itself and its purposes. Even if that purpose is self destructive.Take what you will from the following passage:"The Force (to a Jedi) is a unifying essence that radiates from all living things, binding the galaxy together. As with everything the Force has a dark side. The dark side of the Force is fed by hate, fear and aggression, domination and greed are what its followers hope for. To get it though they kill innocent beings, they destroy life. They want power but destroy the source of their power before they achieve it. As Jedi we must stop this senseless mutilation of life and of the Force. Remember this always for this is the greatest lesson a Jedi must learn to become fully one with the Force."Jedi Master Pargan RrooShadow Jedi: Lecture #17Zen and the ShadowsShadowside@forceacademy.com If someone were to ask me to sum up the shadow side in a word, "Zen" would be my answer. That state of simply being in and of the force. The ultimate state of pure paradox, it is nothing yet it is absolutely everything. Such is the way of the force and the shadow side itself. As I sat reading last night I came across this passage in a book and thought how perfectly it explains the shadow side.What is Zen?Try if you wish. But Zen comes of itself. True Zen shows in everyday living, consciousness in action. More than any limited awareness, it opens every inner door to our infinite nature.Instantly mind frees. How it frees! False Zen wracks brains as a fiction concocted by priests and salesmen to peddle their own wares.Look at it this way, inside out and outside in: consciousness everywhere, inclusive, through you. Then you can't help living humbly, in wonder."What is Zen?"One answer: Inaya Khan tells a Hindu story of a fish who went to a queen fish and asked: "I have always heard about the sea, but what is this sea? Where is it?"The queen fish explained: "You live, move, and have your being in the sea. The sea is within you and without you, and you are made of sea and you will end in sea. The sea surrounds you as your own being."Shadow Jedi: Lecture #18Your eyes can decieve youShadowside@forceacademy.com This lecture comes courtesy of Kerian el Dunnes (kerian_el_dunnes@hotmail.com)...I have heard a lot of people saying the quote; "You eyes can deceive you, don't trust them." (Myself included) However I feel that there is a need to explain this a little bit better.One day I walked into a music store looking for some classical music. And when I say "classical" I don't mean out of the 60's, I'm talking about Beethoven, Mozart, Bach and all the other great composers of that era. Shortly after I entered a young salesman tried to sell me a new stereo system. At this point I must add that I was wearing a tie dye shirt and a pair of fairly old jeans and had my haircut at about shoulder length. I was personally interested in buying a new stereo so I listened to his little speech. He rattled off about how this was the best stereo system to listen to heavy metal rock so you could really feel the base drumming though you bones like it would really feel like you where at a live concert. After he stopped talking I asked, "How does it work with Beethoven?" He looked puzzled at me like he had no clue who Beethoven was, which I am pretty sure he didn't. I explained to him politely who Beethoven was and he still had no clue what I was talking about so I simply did a general tour around the store, found the classical section (which I might add was extremely lacking in both quality and quantity), found the CD I was looking for and paid for it. On my way out I passed the young salesman and showed him the CD and explained who Beethoven was again and suggested that he at least check out something from Beethoven's wide works from the local library and listen too it. (Which I would encourage anyone who has never really heard Beethoven before to do.) This is a prime example of how your eyes can deceive you at first. The second I walked in the door he stereotyped me as your typical teenager that listens to hard rock (which personally hurts my ears.) because of the way that I dress. And while I may look like your average teenager (what can I say, I wear what is comfortable, not exactly what fashion dictates and if that happens to be tie dye shirts and jeans then so be it) there is a lot more to me than meets the eye. In fact I wouldn't have to hazard too much of a guess to say that there is more than meets the eye with most if not all of the people who are reading this right now.Another way to look at it is to see how easily the eyes can be fooled into thinking that something that is not really there is there. Look at any optical illusion for example. Also look at how much one misses during a day, when you sneeze, bend over to pick up a shiny coin or miss that special someone as they slip behind a pillar or into a store at the mall as you round the corner. Which is something that leads to the nature of invisibility but that is another thing all together.The other thing that is mentioned is that we as human are overly dependant on our sense of site over the other four and in the case of smell it has almost diminished down to nothing. One can gather a fair amount of information from the other senses: the footsteps silently shuffling down the hallway, the slight breeze when you know someone has past, or the faint scent of perfume that you know only one person wears. Lastly when one is in tune with the Force you can sense things not through any of the five senses, like that strange tingly feeling when you know something is about to happen but you just don't know what. The information gathered from the Force is usually a lot more accurate than any of the five senses, a Jedi must learn to trust the Force and the information and insights that the Force gives you.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #19What is EnlightenmentShadowside@forceacademy.com What is enlightenment?Probably one of the most simple and yet misunderstood states of being. When we think of enlightenment what comes to mind? Jesus? Buddha? An ancient little man in long robes meditating up on a mountain in Tibet? Sure, those are some of many faces of this state. However, the smart money is on the sole fact that we rarely look at ourselves. I'd like to share a story that I heard from an amazing teacher I met this past weekend. This story comes from the great mystic, Anthony de Mello. De Mello was asked, "what is enlightenment? How do you reach it?" in reply he told this story. (Note: I'm paraphrasing this, as I don't have the actual text that the original story came from.)In England, a poor homeless beggar was walking the streets looking for warmth and a place to sleep. Finally he decided to curl up on the banks of the river Thames. Not long after he fell asleep a wealthy woman in her limo passed by and upon seeing him said to herself, "Oh, this won't do." So she stopped and walked up to the beggar, "Tell me, have you no other place to go?""No ma'am," the beggar replied. "Tonight, this is my home."So the wealthy woman offered him a meal and a warm bed for the night at her mansion. Naturally, the beggar accepted. Upon arriving at her home, she showed him to the kitchen and spoke to one of her servants, "This man is to have clean clothes, as much food as he can eat and carry, and a comfortable bed in one of the servant quarters." And with that she retired to her bedroom. Hours later she awoke thinking about the beggar - had he gotten his bed? Was he well feed? So she goes down to servant rooms and notices the light on under his door, she knocks and enters. There, sitting on the bed is the beggar, well feed and clean. "Is the room alright, are you warm enough?""Oh, yes ma'am - everything is wonderful. Thank you.""You received enough food?""Oh, yes ma'am - I haven't eaten like that in years."Then knowing that perhaps the man just needed company she walked to the bed and sat down beside him. The beggar moved over to make room for her ...and fell into the Thames river.Take a second and think about that, close your eyes and process the story. Don't be two dimensional when thinking about enlightenment. Don't fool yourself into thinking it's something that can never be attained or something that you gain two minutes before you die. Enlightenment is to be lived, to be recognized NOW. Like the beggar that fell into the river - he never moved, not really. He went on a journey, yes, but in reality - he was where he always had been. Here. Now. Look around you - inhale the living force with every breath and exhale it a hundred fold through every pore of your being. Live in the ultimate balance. You are the embodiment of this enlightenment, you *are* the force as is every thing around you. Never allow the word "separate" to enter your mind - separateness is an illusion, don't buy into it. "Luminous beings are we, not this crude matter." Live that. Fall into the Thames river - awake to the present moment and see yourself as the very answer to any question you seek. FEEL the living force. FEEL the moment. LIVE the force. LIVE your enlightenment.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #20Mind Tricks Shadowside@forceacademy.com Jedi Mind Tricks............. real or not........ yes!!!!!Yes sir real all the way, in the form of Kiai-jutsu. I think it is safe to say that you all know or have heard a keeyaaa in a karate movie right! Anyone have a deeper insight as to what it is for, well for the most part a kiai is something you do to stop your opponent for a brief period or to channel more energy, but this is not complete. First you must use your mind, body and spirit all for this to have a full kiai. In the body part this is the strike or throw, kick or punch if it is not done right then it will do you no good. The mind is the focus of the technique, when you do this you mind is in total attention of you goal or target. The spirit is the emotion or energy the force or power if you will. But all of the above are nothing with out the other. you must use them together as one here is a guide as to how.Sound of a kiai: when you are punching, kicking, attacking you want to use a vowel like sound A, E, I, O, or U. we breath out when doing this from your Hara ( belly or center ) some of the best sounds are like Kiyaa! or Daaiiii! also Eeesaaii! notice you breath as you say the mentioned kiai.Blocking or grappling: We use a P, T, M, or S. sound and limit your breath not stop it. This channels the body's internal force and causes the energy created to flood the torso and limbs and reinforce the body as a whole. examples are Hott!,. Yatt! and. Toup!The mind tricks come in to play by other things like a foot stomp maybe, example I have a sword so do you, you want to attack, but can't find a opening, then I let a small one open you begin to go for it then I stomp the ground, it stops you in your tracks can't move for a second and guess what I win. You can also do this like when some one has there mind else were and lets say, is about to take a sip of a drink, then kiai and it may cause them to freeze or drop their cup. You can also watch some one walk and do this and they will stop there train of thought and again freeze.Also you need not even make a sound, like one night me and another person was grappling with weapons I had a Boken ( wood sword ) on my hip and he had a Tanto ( knife ) I also had a Hojo ( a 6ft rope ) wound up in my hand, I dropped it he looked and as he looked I drew my sword and cut again I won. So I used the nose of the rope as a kiai a total mind trick well I will leave you with this and I hope it helps you in your study of the force, by the way you can also do a kiai with your eyes as well but I will let the Force teach you that one.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #21The Shadow JediShadowside@forceacademy.com Many people know what the Shadow side is. They know that the Shadow side itself is not limited to either of the two aspects of the force, but rather extends from extreme to extreme. This fact that all aspects of the Force does NOT mean that all force users are Shadow Jedi.Shadow Jedi, are force users who strive to unlearn all concepts of good and evil. They learn to see things in more natural terms. There is no good or evil...only oneness. Shadow Jedi as such strive to live in the balance of the moment. Each moment has its own energy balance and when an energy balance becomes to extreme to the point where it is unhealthy for life, it is the job of the Shadow Jedi to step in and restore balance.Shadow Jedi Progression:Level One; Actualizing the Force.This is the stage in which Shadow Adepts realize the existence and presence of a force around them at all times and in all places. This is a stage of awakening and can take much time.Level Two; Finding Inner balance through Realization.During this stage of development Shadow Adepts must learn to see the world through a different lens. They must learn to no longer see the world as chaos and random events. They must learn to see the intricacies and connections of all things around them. Than they must understand that all things are in balance, where one thing is stronger another is weaker...and as such it will shift back and forth until equilibrium is reestablished. We see this in the world around us, we note how all things in nature bend to this rule as it is a supreme concept. Through this realization we begin to understand that as such our personality has such balances...where one aspect is stronger its opposite is weaker. We must also understand that this give and take relationship is not beneficial and that it is only beneficial when in equilibrium...when all aspects are equal and none is favored...at this stage progression is only natural.Training at this stage includes self-hypnotism and restructuring of the personality. First we recognize the parts of the personality that are favored...than we must restructure our personality so that it too is in equilibrium. Once we have achieved inner balance we have made our first great step into the world of the Force.Level Three; Freedom of Balance.After the attainment of inner balance we form a connection with the balance of energies around us. With our own personalities balanced we now have the freedom to undertake any action the force dictates without it corrupting or affecting our personality make-up.At this stage we become operational Jedi...We now use our abilities to balance those around us, as well as nature and the environment as well. However this is a task that is only undertaken every once in a great while (When all things can no longer balance themselves for the benefit of life). This opportunity only arises once in every few generations. As of these most recent years we will be moving into this era of turmoil.The job of a Shadow Jedi is never clear...sometimes it can be the most insignificant of tasks. While at other times it can be the most daunting. Only your closeness with the force can dictate this to you. To be a Shadow Jedi is to be one with the force, the process of becoming a Shadow Jedi is a process of unlearning all that separates us from the force…Shadow Jedi: Lecture #22Walking the PathShadowside@forceacademy.com The path of the Shadow Jedi...We all have a different path in the force, for all things diverse have their own places...However how we walk those paths is up to us. The same path for one person can be heaven or hell at one time or another. We recognize this as perception, as our minds interpreting life around us to the specifications that have been built into us by the circumstances and experiences of our lives.The mind is our conduit between the pure energy of life/spirit/force and our Physical being or vehicle...How the energy travels from the physical to the spiritual and vice versa depends on the condition of the conduit...If the conduit is completely clear than energy will flow naturally back and forth between realms like water creating equilibrium.However if the conduit is blocked the energy will not be allowed to pass naturally and will create problems and deficiencies between the two realms...However life will balance itself out and the force will balance itself out in the form of luck and unguided power, but that energy will never be used for the potential and the power it was intended...It will play out and we will walk away from the experience once again the victims of fate or circumstance.To clear the conduit we must align all of our perceptions so that they allow the energy of pure potential to flow in and out of the material or "Matrix" realm, "Matrix" meaning mother or womb, where the laws of physics apply directly to the amount and direction of energy in our universe.The process of aligning perceptions is known as unlearning...We must find the perceptions in our lives that allow us to block the energy...they can be simple things such as "That is impossible" or they can be much more complicated and can be linked to the base perceptions of our personality, similar to the person who believes that some people are capable of doing amazing things however they themselves are not, all of these perceptions are intertwined to one root perception that is often instilled by insecurity with their world...The reason people go on quests of knowledge is not for understanding itself, but because of fear and insecurity with their places in the world...rather than accept where they are (and at the same time accept their inherent power as sentient beings with a spirit) they choose to instead quest for understanding that cannot be obtained...The force is not meant to be understood it is meant to be accepted and used for guidance. However getting someone to change these perceptions will be difficult because they are caused by fear...often times fear is the greatest defense mechanism there is on the planet and it is not something to be taken lightly when teaching your students...Fear can destroy them. I have seen it many times and those who are destroyed by their fear often times wish to pull others along with them, "Misery loves company". When approaching the process of unlearning if you discover that your student has deep seeded fear you must approach the situation like you would if you were talking someone down off a ledge while they are suicidal...One of the key principles to stick to when doing this is the simple realization that life is not meant to be theorized about it is meant to be lived...Doubt, Hesitation, Fear of Failure, these are all defense mechanisms created by the intellect...They are designed to make our world rational...Human beings have developed rational minds and as a side affect of that they have developed the defense mechanisms necessary to keep it a rational world...I.E. the mind tries to reject anything that cannot be explained rationally...therefore it creates blocks that will not allow that irrationality to seep into life.People have difficult times accepting the irrational, and they have near impossible times accepting the fact that they have that same irrational and unscientific power.So what we have done is create a "Rats wheel" to keep ourselves from realizing that we have that power, we run in a circle. We never realize that we are in the wheel because we always seem to be gaining ground and going forward...but in actuality the wheel is just spinning. That is akin to us creating blocks and limitations that keep us from being able to use irrational power...much like the illusion that the rat is going forward.The rat needs to move off of the wheel to go forward...much the same we need to move off of our wheel to go forward...our wheel is our doubt, hesitation, disbelief. Our very need to look before we leap.Using the force can be looked at as a leap of faith.If you let go of your fear, your hesitancy and your disbelief than your mind will no longer be blocked...it will be open and free and energy will flow through it in desperately needed equilibrium and balance...Now you have the power that makes a Jedi, the force is with you...There is energy in all life and all situations, sometimes it is not our purpose to put out energy, either for physical technique or for radiance of emotion...Sometimes it is the job of Jedi to siphon energy out of a situation and back into the spirit realm.When energy amasses and gathers at a focal point and than intensifies it naturally expands and when energy violently expands it destroys that which is around it.This is similar to a Riot, many energies gather and rapidly expand in ever widening violence until they have expanded enough for the energy to have dissipated...That is when it is our job as Jedi to let the energy flow from the physical realm back into the spirit realm where it is naturally dispersed into the living force.Our job as Jedi will be ever changing and will always depend on our place with the force...do not become upset if you cannot achieve something you believed to be vital...always remember that in the eyes of the force all is right and nothing can be the "End of the World" that is important to hold on to...whenever all seems out of control pull back and focus on the big picture of the force...we all have our places in it and we must accept that...Our job is to let the light shine into the darkened material realm...To allow life to flourish.I apologize for the time it took me to get another lecture posted...however I believe that at this time this was the proper thing to write.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #23Meditation: Introduction Shadowside@forceacademy.comWhat makes one decide to meditate? Everyone has their reasons: mental, physical, spiritual – meditation aids in all of these on multiple levels and is the driving force of bringing all of them together. When first sitting down to meditate it is important to keep one thing in mind: let it flow naturally. Never force yourself to meditate longer than you are able. For many just starting out, if they can pull off ten minutes of meditative stillness, this is a great accomplishment. Start slow and try and leave all preconceived notions of snap insights and instant enlightenment behind. Keep it simple and expect nothing. This is, after all, a life long journey and isn't something you can get the 'cliff notes' on. Patience is key.Realistically speaking, when first starting out it's possible to not take to meditation right away. There are some who are so thirsty for the calm it brings, they will slip into the practice without a second thought ...but, in fact, most have problems of some sort. In a way, it asks a lot - those who aren't raised on meditation almost have to alter their thought processes. Let's be honest, quieting your thoughts and going to the state of simply "being" – not exactly something anyone can fully grasp in a single sitting or two. You'll quiet your mind, sink into meditation and suddenly you're thinking about a test that you have the next day or what to fix for dinner or what needs to be done at the office. Practically everyone goes through this and above all, never let it be a source of frustration. Again, patience and let it flow naturally. If you find yourself in that situation, simply let the thoughts go and return to your centering method. (be that breathing, mantra, etc)Now, you've heard it practically everywhere: meditation is the key; meditation is the foundation. So, what does meditating accomplish? Meditation is the art of quieting the mind, allowing you to listen totally and completely to yourself. Any answers that you seek are already within you, waiting – you need only still your mind and listen. As time goes on and your meditation deepens so does your understanding of yourself and with this a door is opened into a totally new world. Your journey in meditation is a journey to the depths of yourself and, as it goes without saying, therein lies ultimate awareness of the force.The coming lectures will cover a wide range of meditative techniques and practices. For the most part, the basic set up stays the same for any meditative exercise: sitting normally in a chair or on a flat surface (floor, bed, etc) with your legs comfortably folded or flat on the floor, back straight, eyes closed, in as quiet of an area as possible. Again, always remember to let the meditation process flow naturally, with time you'll find that it seems to take on a life of its own. Patience is key and frustration is the opposite of what you are wanting to accomplish. If you find yourself unable to quiet your mind, try not to let it bother you. Use a different centering technique, get up and do something, go to sleep – any thing but get frustrated with yourself and your meditation. And above all, enjoy the practice – meditation opens countless doors and will help usher in deeply esoteric states of awareness ...it's a long journey but truly a vital one.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #24Meditation: BreathingShadowside@forceacademy.comBreathing is one of the most basic as well as important aspects of meditation. Whatever technique you decide to use, breathing will most likely play a large part in it. For the most part, the average person breathes very shallow - drawing in air from the throat area as opposed to taking it in deeply from the chest. There is a difference to be aware of. In meditation, deep breathing is very important - to inhale, slowly expand your chest, aware of the air as it moves through you - exhale slowly and just as deliberately. Be sure that your breath is even and that you follow it with your focus. Just sit in the silence with that intention, simple and deliberate breathing. Starting with just a basic breathing meditation, be aware of your breath. For that moment in time that is the only thing that your mind should focus on -- the gentle inhale and exhale of your own breath.You'll come across many excellent breathing techniques, go with what you are comfortable with and stick with it. To give you a good starting place, I've found this breathing method to be very, very beneficial and recommend it for anyone no matter what stage you are at in your meditative learning. It is as follows...Place your tongue just behind the ridge behind your upper teeth, this works on an energy level, completing a main circuit where in energy flows through out the body (similar to the Kundalini line) - hold that position through out this exercise. Next, inhale through your nose, counting slowly to four. Hold it, counting slowly to seven; then exhale slowly through your mouth, this time counting to eight. Note the operative word here is "slowly" - always be deliberate in any meditative exercise, it helps control and deepen your focus. This is a very simple but very powerful exercise - just remember: 4, 7, 8. Inhale 4, hold 7, and exhale 8. It acts on many physical and mental levels, it steadies the mind and centers the energies of the physical body. Try it several times in succession and you can automatically feel its effects.Proper use of meditative breathing can begin to surface in the various aspects of your life. When you are comfortable with your breath (i.e., it has gone from its normal shallow to a much deeper state) you can call on it at different points in your day to day life. Various relationships, anxiety, stress, five o'clock traffic - you name it, through the use of this breath you can bring yourself back to your meditative center at any moment. *Highly* beneficial, especially if you're like most people and don't live in a peaceful monastery in the mountains. Just stop and breathe during your regular day - take two minutes and go through the basic exercise. Remember that meditation is not something that you do once or twice a day in special place in your home - it is to be integrated fully into your life as a whole. Whether you're at work or school - it's vitally important to take a few minutes just to center yourself and regroup. It's very easy just to get into the hectic flow of the day, but by bringing your meditation with you, you're able to transform that everyday life. Which is what many people strive for, transforming the day to day - it doesn't take a great awareness to do that, just a few minutes here and there to quiet yourself, be aware of where you are and simply breathe.Shadow Jedi: Lecture #25Meditation: The MantraShadowside@forceacademy.comProbably one of the most common means of centering is the mantra or a simple word or short phrase that holds a deep meaning for you. It acts as direct link to that sacred, calming space within you that is the goal of meditation – correctly chosen, the mantra should resonate that state. In choosing a mantra, go with your gut reaction – the one that really sings to you. Like many of the answers we seek, when we are open to it – it presents itself immediately, selecting a mantra is no different. Depending on your religious background (if any) a mantra can relate back to that, for example: "Abba" is a common Christian mantra (it’s widely considered that it was used by Jesus) but then, it was also used by Gandhi as well (his mantra was his dying words). "OM" is probably the most common (and very sadly, the most stereotyped) example of a mantra. Found practically everywhere, this literally timeless mantra is the resonating tone of the third eye or 6th charka. Personally speaking, I’ve found it to be probably the most powerful and harmonic mantra for use in meditation. Basically, a mantra can be anything - as long as it is sacred to you. Generally speaking, it should be very short, no more than handful of words (example: "Om mani padme hum" which translates loosely from sanskrit as "lotus at the center of the garden"). Again, choose one that you feel comfortable with, look in your favorite sacred text, go into a few minutes of quiet meditation and see what comes to you… whatever you choose, let it be your own.When meditating with a mantra, simply sit in the quiet in the meditative position you are comfortable with, letting the mantra flow with your breath within your mind. As you inhale, the only thought that you let through your mind is your mantra, nothing more. Using "OM" as an example – breathe in, "ooooooooooooooommmmmmmmmmmmm" a slight pause, holding it briefly, then exhale - again, the mantra is carried the length of your breath. And from there the cycle begins again: inhale with the mantra, hold for a moment of silence, exhale with the mantra. With each in and exhale you are drawn deeper inside your meditation, towards the center of yourself where there is true calm and nothing more. If random thoughts start to drift through your mind (and they always do!) don't get frustrated, smoothly bring back your mantra, clearing those other thoughts away and continue on. Very simple and it will help deepen your meditation immensely. When first starting out in meditation, it's a common misconception that you should jump immediately into sitting in the pure silence with nothing else – while this probably works well for some and generally leads to frustration at not being able to focus. In this regard, using a mantra is excellent – it's widely regarded as one of the very best methods of centering yourself not only in meditation but within your "normal" day-to-day life as well (as is discussed in the previous lecture on breathing).Shadow Jedi: Lecture #26Warrior ways of EnlightenmentShadowside@forceacademy.comThe warrior's way of enlightenment is a process of releasing all restraints on the three level's of being.The first level of being would happen to be the most obvious, the physical.In the process of releasing the physical form we will do a lot of exercises that will encompass principles such as Natural movement, and the honing of the reflexes so that they do not react in undesired ways.When training in the physical form it is important to remember that even though it is a physical body we travel in, the force still creates it and indeed is it...even walking is a force power. Without the force providing energy to life, no such movement or existence could be possible...so from now on the question isn't how do I find my abilities...but how do I expand them...they are already present on ALL LEVELS...however we simply neglect those abilities as run of the mill or something less than worth our attention. This is not the case, quite to the contrary, if you do indeed wish to be successful on the warrior path than you must first learn that value of the most mundane of existence.So from now on, when you do your exercises, whatever they may be, go through them with an awareness towards them. Watch how you move, and if something is uncomfortable, DO NOT TRY TO FIGHT IT, accept it. The way of the force is not the way of struggle but the way of acceptance. Stretching, when doing this keep in mind that it is a process of letting go, and not of forcing a stretch...all things in your life should be accomplished with a few considerations in mind.1) Keep it natural, do not force anything, accept everything.2) Do not hesitate, despite all of the nature films Hesitation and indeed fear are not natural to human beings. They linger from our evolution from animals...animals posses fear for the simple reason that there core ambition and indeed only ambition is the survival of their species...for a warrior this is not the case. We must realize that life is a gift to all beings, but that gift like any other should not be held over others head's or be overly protective of...Fear in itself is a Defense Mechanism. We as Force adepts do not need fear, because one of the very first things we learn is that our existence is simply within the force, and if it is the will of the force that we be injured or indeed killed than there is no need to fear that. If it is the will of the force that we fight back, we do so. Never Fear, Never hesitate.3) Never be reckless, never pursue your goal when it is against the will of the force.4) Live, do not worry about walking the path, or if your doing something right, Just live.Once you pass the plane of Physical existence and allow yourself to expand, we move into the realm of the mind, The mind in essence is the ultimate Conduit/Computer. It is an interpreter and a receiver of Data. The data comes from the force, and that is indeed how we discern the will of the force, through our minds...However the mind like all "Lenses" can become smudged and the image Muddled. So to make sure our mind is interpreting the will of the force correctly we must know how to properly clean it. The process of cleaning the mind is Called Unlearning. In Unlearning we will discover how our perceptions determine our reality. Reality, and the world around us can only exist, TO US, when our mind interprets the data. HOW our mind interprets that data directly determines our reality, and indeed the will of the force, I.E. Someone sitting next to you breaks a bottle over the edge of a bar and threatens you with it, If this is a total stranger and he does it out of the blue for no Reason our perceptions determine how we view this as a threat.Our perceptions from an earth level of existence would determine that you have done nothing to bring it on and it is an unprovoked attack that you do not feel the need to respond to or back away from.From a water level we would become defensive, and wonder what we did to upset this person in such a way.From a Fire stance we would see someone threatening our lives and the feelings of all of those who love you, thus induce a blinding rage against the attacker and summarily enter the fight.From a Wind standpoint we would evaluate the attack in such a way as to consider outside causes for this person's distress and why he feels the need to be aggressive, our mood would be one of sorrow for the man's situation.All of those perceptions of life are in order of progression, we all start on the earth level and progress our way up...our perceptions from birth our molded into one of those categories. Some people never develop beyond Earth level. For those people their lives are often filled with a feeling of impotency and loss. However Like I have said, we as Force users strive to find the perception that will allow us to interpret the force properly.This perception is beyond the other four perception and is called the Void Perception.The void represents sub atomic particles, the infiniteness of the force, the basic building blocks for the universe, infinite creativity.From a Void stance the you would be able to look upon the person and see not a man menacing you with a beer bottle, but you would see the hurt and pain and sorrow of a man who feels he has hit the absolute point of no return, you would literally see a "Disturbance in the Force" where the force has over ridden itself and has moved into the process of evolving itself...Much like a fire burns down a forest so that new life can grow...in such situations the disturbance in the force will actually "Repel" you into the right action, your movements and intentions will flow from this disturbance, the energy given off will allow you to move with his every whim, until the burning of evolution in the force is complete and the disturbance is no more.This is the perception we desire in order to interpret the will of the force.How do we attain this perception? Like all things we must progress naturally through the four other perceptions in order to reach the fifth...Each perception comes with a Revelation that allows you to spring board yourself to the next...For the sake and fact that I have not trained everyone of you out there I will not tell you the revelation that allows you to move from wind to void...simply because without understanding all of the others you will not understand the last...and also like all things it will not become a revelation if it is simply TOLD to you, it must become a part of you...something that you discover on your own.Once we open the pathway's of the mind and clean the "Lens" that allows us to view the will of the force, our mind has been surpassed and now we move to the final level of the spirit, at this point you have earned the rank of Master, your mind has seen beyond the Supposed reality it creates and has viewed the infinite potential of the force. From here on your journey is that of an artist, painting with the vast power that is the force.The spirit level is essentially the energy that drives the universe, once you have opened the gateway of the mind, this energy will flow freely between spirit and physical realms...Being guided by your will this energy will play itself in whatever means you desire...With this gift and accomplishment comes great responsibility one that is recognized through discipline and the stamina it takes to question your own existence and beliefs and push yourself beyond anything imagined…Shadow Jedi: Training #1CombatShadowside@forceacademy.com I would like to take this time to discuss a very important topic to all Jedi Knight and that is the use of weapons in this case the sword but the same principles apply to all weapons, so be mindful of this. The basic sword technique is the same for all but your path will influence the use as well. Lets start with a description of the size of a blade and handle first. The Samurai of old would sometimes use this method, the handle is the length of your forearm from wrist to elbow. The blade size is found by your height, stand strait up with your hands down by your side, make a fist from your fist to the top of the ground is your blade length, a master sword smith would then take your measurements and apply his knowledge to find the perfect balance of the blade and handle. Now on to the good stuff, using it! First you must learn to hold the sword, the lead hand is up next to the guard of the sword DO NOT hold it tight it should be held diagonally across from the index finger back in the palm. Your rear hand is placed at the bottom of the handle also diagonal across the rear hand. The lead hand is the power of the cut and the rear hand is the control and direction maker.Next is the posture of sword play for a Jedi this a reflection of your path and your emotions at the time you are in combat. There are many and each will be a little different according to your path and the make up of your body. First is Daijodan and the sword is held above the head completely leaving your body open to attack or it would look to be open this is a look here is your chance to kill me posture, they think you are open but you are not. Moving on down you have Hasso you are turn to your side the blade is pointing strait up and you are holding the handle about chest high and you are looking at your opponent. This is very none aggressive posture more like waiting to defend yourself or maybe a are you sure you are ready for this feeling. Then we move to Seigan, you face your opponent one leg back one forward and hold the handle about waist level and the blade is pointed at their eyes, this is a very strong feeling of I am going to waste you just make a move. And the last for now is Gedan you start off in Seigan then move the blade to point down and to the side just a little at a angle. This is more of I do not wish to harm you feeling but I am still ready for you. You should learn to cut from each and move from one to the other with the flow of the Force let it guide you. First learn the postures then begin to flow and cut from them a cut should be natural not forced the body knows how to move just let it. Blocking is a very important thing, try not to block it is better to simply move and use body movement but if you need to you should block at a 45 degree angle from their attack and turn the blade to its side as not to chip the sharp edge, also block close to the guard and keep your legs in alignment with the sword.This is all for now on the basics of the sword for the Jedi Knight, remember stay calm and let the Force guide you. I will latter discuss more on the sword and other weapons if enough fellow Knights are interested.TorashinMay the Force be with you and you all find Balance in life................This Lecture was brought to me by a good Friend and his wisdom in combat and in strategy is apparent. May the force be with you all…Shadow Jedi: Training #2Combat Continued.... Shadowside@forceacademy.comTraining safe in Jedi waysAnother topic I wish to discuss is safety. I have read post on things like 'How to build a light saber' and other equipment. This is another way which I feel is safe and fun and you will still learn allot from.Material needed:1. 4 ft PVC pipe 1/2 inch2. 5 ft of foam pipe insulation for 1/2 inch pipe3. Duct tape Black or Gray4. any one of these color tapes Red, Blue, or GreenFirst cover the PVC pipe with the foam, cut off the extra foam. Next use the duct tape and tape the foam in a spiral not to tight but firm all the way up. Cut the extra foam in two and cover the ends of the pipe and tape over them. Now it should all be covered Measure off 3' feet and tape with colored tape this will be the saber or blade. Again do not tape tight. The last 12" inches will be your handle design or duct tape this again as you wish. There you have it one light saber ready for a duel now all you need is a training partner.Rules for dueling:1. Hit to the head or body is a full kill.2. Hit to arms or legs is a half kill3. To win you must have a full killThis is real simple but lots of fun and you will learn allot about yourselfand your ability. Remember train hard or don't train.Shadow Jedi: Training #3Knife CombatShadowside@forceacademy.comDisclaimer: This Lecture is for informational purposes only, we do not condone the use of any weapons here at the academy, this lecture is intended to give students information on defense from knife attacks. If you are under the age of 18 you SHOULD NOT attempt any practical reconstruction of this lecture without supervision. Force MasterThe truth about .......... Knife Fighting Well I have decided to lecture on Knife fighting as it came up one day in the chat room. And to be honest some of the things and misconceptions people have on knife fighting really shock me. If you want to know how to defend against a knife then first you must know how to use a knife. Here are some key points to remember when using a knife. 1. Hide the knife, you will never see a true knife fighter coming.... 2. Holding the knife, hold it blade ( sharp side ) up, this in case they try to block the knife with the sharp side up you have better chance of cutting them. 3. Never, never throw the knife from hand to hand, keep it in your hand tie the thing if you need to but don't let it go. That is some basic stuff on using the knife and that is all I will share openly as there are a lot of well.... you know. O.K. knife defense first and most important don't train to fight a fool, train as though you are up against the best this will only make you better, and if you train against a fool guess who is the fool.........heh. Here are a few tips. 1. Never try to kick a knife out of the attackers hand, as a good knife fighter is just weighting for someone to try, just so he/she can leave their hand there as a good target and just turn the blade into your foot as you kick ..... ouch! use your mind. 2. Always grab something, anything look around the room what do you see that would work, I see coke can, fan, books, video tapes, phone, curtains on the window and lots more. you can throw it at them to get away or use it like a book, open it ( pages out ) and as they stab close the book on the blade an trap it then its yours, use your mind. 3. Stay away !!! you should be at least 8 to 10 feet away and even then its not really enough, I once saw in a police a training a bad guy ( fake bad guy ) had a knife and he was 20 feet away, by the time the cop could draw his gun and start to aim the guy was there and had stabbed him dead ( fake again ) things happen fast so stay calm, use your mind. 4. Don't put your hands out in front of you, they will be the first to get cut. Keep them up and to the side, like stick 'em up. You see then you have your hands up close to your head and elbows by your ribs its all to protect you. 5. Don't try to grab the knife go for the forearm its bigger easier to grab, then punch the hand with the knife or do a arm lock, but ONLY after you have got the forearm in control. Those are a few tips and basics on knife fighting, remember its not a game I have been ( in my past ) in about three knife fights, the first my friends came and the guy ran off, my second I was fighting two brothers and a third guy came up from behind with a knife a my then best friend saw an before he stabbed me, hit him from behind with a broken 2x4 board. My third was a eye opener, no one else there just me and him, I was playing the big shot saying come on you #@%!& well he did I moved ( turned at the hips ) and the knife went through my shirt and as it was a cheap flea market knife with little things on the side ( hook like designs ) it got stuck and the hooks scratched me ( I thought it was the blade and that I was cut ) then someone stopped their car and screamed at us the guy ran off with his knife still in my shirt, I could not believe how close I came that time. Well the most important thing I want to get across is, to use your head stay calm and don't go Hollywood stick to the basics and use your mind, its NO game.Shadow Jedi: Training #4Shadow approach to CombatShadowside@forceacademy.comCombat lectures have been appearing more and more often. Combat is a part of life, but for Shadow Jedi, falling into a conflict should be viewed as a small failure, unless of course you are doing it in the defense of another.Shadow Jedi Combat is not like any other form of combat, simply because it is not guided by the same laws and rules that guide other systems of combat.For the Shadow Jedi, defeat is only a result of failure to your teachings...What I mean by that is the Shadow Jedi do not actually try to defeat their opponents. Instead they become one with the intentions of their opponents, thus making their own intentions work against them..For a Jedi every piece of matter in existence, and on every vibration wave length is potentially a tool of your will. That in itself is not enough to always win in a combat situation, or rather, always preserve life...What is needed along with the basic acceptance of all things being at your disposal is also the ability to let the attackers intentions bring them to the point they want for you...In this process you must empty yourself...every thought, desire, ambition, fear, and most important, hesitancy. Once you have emptied your mind, feel the world around you, feel the anger of your opponent, feel their ambition to harm you...Now take on their consciousness...Let their intentions reflect on them, let your actions be guided by theirs...Let go of everything and become like water moving with the flow of your opponent...Weaponry is something that also needs to be addressed...when approached by an attacker wielding a weapon you must always recognize that even though they posses the weapon, they and their weapon are potentially your tools...as is everything around you from a phone cord to a sharpened pencil...The constructing of weapons, such as swords, and lightsabers in the star wars universe is used more for the cultivation of discipline rather than for the need of the actual weapon...In reality if you let the force guide you the appropriate weapon will appear at the appropriate time...there is no need for conflict within yourself, even if there is a gun bearing attacker confronting you...Most important of all things is to let go of yourself, and move with the winds of the force, if you do this there is no need for fear or hesitancy...and as such they must be let go.