What Is The Difference To Cos players?

We actually get this question a lot. From new members to the community as well as from interviewers
such as but not limited to: Student Projects, news reporters and documentary directors....

What is the difference?

This question is often asked because (While not a requirement)  it is not unheard of for Jediists
to wear Jedi robes, train with toy lightsabers, and adopt fictional references such as  
“May The Force Be With You”
into their practices or chosen social behavior amongst each other.

You will find these practices at Jedi Gatherings for Knighting Ceremonies or Weddings and in cases
like the Chicago Jedi who attend Con’s, flash mobs, workshop’s and charitable events in
full jedi like attire in order to participate in their local communities
and also to get the word out that they are there.

There are also  Individual member who found a deeper meanings to wearing the jedi robe’s for practices
like meditations and ceremonies or personal comfort.

(after all, they really are quite comfortable to wear!)

Due to the incoherent nature within the Jedi Community concerning the use of jedi attire.
Meaning: Some agree to the use and others do not.  
Outside viewers who are unaware of our communities history concerning the subject can get a
little confused. It is understandable that they would think the Jedi Realists and Jediism members
are indeed “Cosplayers”

The reason why most Jedi Realists and Jediism members will strongly state that “We are not!!”
is due to the fact that it is not the main focus or priority of our beliefs and we wish for others
to understand that cosplay is not our focus.

However, to put it simply.
There is no real difference.
Behind every mask, robe, lightsaber and cool effect’s is a individual human being who has a
personal Spiritual and or religious belief that goes beyond the momentary entertainment
they choose to enjoy.

Our’s just happens to be labeled as “Jedi.”

Journal Entry:  What is your fictional Hero? How does he or she inspire you? Have you ever dressed up like them? How did it feel to (for just a moment) ‘take up the mantle/appearance’ of said hero

Disclaimer

The opinion presented in this article belongs to the author alone. There may be some Jediist out there who will disagree.