Today, we offer the second ‘episode’ of our two-part series on the spiritual lessons in Star Wars. If you missed the first, you can find that here. Even if you aren’t a geek at heart, it is impossible to ignore the vital recovery lessons we can learn from the timeless saga of our favorite Star Wars characters.
“Your eyes can deceive you, don’t trust them.” — Obi-Wan Kenobi
At the onset of recovery, many of us are confounded when the concept of faith in a Power greater than ourselves is presented. Our over-reliance on what we can observe through the senses can undermine our ability to connect with the divine reality beyond us. If we want to connect with the Force, we need to close our eyes and look within.
“Feel, don’t think. Trust your instincts” — Qui-Gon Jinn
This advice to Anakin from Qui-Gon Jinn in The Phantom Menace has real-world implications. So often, we try to think our way out of situations only to lead ourselves into greater peril. In order to live a spiritual life, we must begin to allow the Force (a Power greater than ourselves) to guide us in ways that often counter our thoughts. In recovery, we begin to intuitively know how to handle a situation which used to baffle us.
“Already know you that which you need.” — Yoda
The original 12 Step text gives us a beautiful picture of our own internal resources in the key phrase, “The fundamental idea of God rests deep down in every man, woman, and child.” While external forces may dominate and obscure this truth, the Power for love and goodness is already within us. Clearing away the wreckage of our past can enable us to see the path that we were born to follow. Like Luke, we can be led to our destiny if we will begin to look within.
“Use the Force, Luke. Let go, Luke! Luke, trust me.” — Obi-Wan Kenobi
Life in recovery is about more than simply staying sober – it’s about letting go of our preconceived notions and trusting God to take us to better things. In this classic quote from Obi-Wan, the mentor is leading his protégé to use the Force which rests within him. What must be done often cannot be accomplished on our own power. When we ask for help from a Higher Power, we can be given aid in moments of crisis.
“Impossible to see, the future is.” — Yoda
Ever burned up energy foolishly trying to arrange life to suit yourself? Yeah, me too. When we are focused on acting with integrity in the present, we are less concerned with the little plans and designs we pursue when trying to make the future “look” a certain way. In recovery, we are given the ability to pause when agitated or doubtful and focus our attention on what is right in front of us. And guess what? That’s not even a Jedi mind trick!
“I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me.” — Chirrut Îmwe
A relationship with a Higher Power involves having something beyond a simple belief in God. That relationship requires faith, accompanied by ongoing prayer and meditation. Throughout Rogue One, Chirrut Îmwe repeats this critical line in an effort to steady himself and move through danger with only to Force directing him. Using prayer in our time of need to free us to outgrow fear.
“Train yourself to let go of everything you fear to lose.” — Yoda
When we are crippled by fear, we may avoid taking important action that can change the course of our life. We cannot free up space for God to do what is required with us if we still cling to our own ideas of what is most important. Unfortunately, mastering this task is not always easy, but when we train ourselves as Yoda suggests, we find a freedom we may not have even realized we were capable of experiencing.
“Close your eyes. Feel it. The light – its always been there. It will guide you.” — Maz Kanata
The 12 Steps are designed to produce a spiritual awakening sufficient of overcoming alcoholism. As we progress into Step 11, we gain a deeper connection with God, which in turn continues to guide us through our experience as spiritual beings. When we connect to the Light – whether that be to the Force or to God – we are led along the road of Happy Destiny.