Let loose the hounds of war Gentle Readers. Today is about suiting up for war. Now, I have friends who participate in reenactments so for them, suiting up for war actually includes metal armor. What I am getting at here is more like mental armor. When you have a difficult situation, perhaps some sort of harassment or discrimination, that you have to escalate to the next level, it helps if you feel ‘armored up’ and ready to do battle. Doing this without a clear head is not advisable. This can be advisable in other aspects of life. A clear head is preferable to being heard as opposed to getting overly emotional and flying off the handle.

It pains me to say that I cannot find the quote that first came to mind when I read about today’s call to Mars (or Aries if you prefer) for his assistance. This quote goes something like “Emotion is the enemy of reason”. This speaks to the power that a calm and rational discourse can have for your case to be taken seriously. Being someone with a bit of an anger issue at times, some help staying calm is definitely right up my alley. I wear my emotions on my sleeve like a badge of honor most times.

I was also reminded of a Bible passage from a youth retreat I went to in my younger days.

Ephesians 6:11-18 King James Version (KJV)

¹¹ Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
¹² For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
¹³ Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
¹⁴ Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with Truth, and having on the breastplate of Righteousness;
¹⁵ And your feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace;
¹⁶ Above all, taking the shield of Faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
¹⁷ And take the helmet of Salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God:
¹⁸ Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

I have often turned to this passage in my Bible at home even since I broke with organized Christian faith. I find that it is a powerful message, even if you don’t necessary believe in the whole God portion.

Being ‘girt with Truth’ is universal. Being truthful and honest in your dealings goes a long way.
Wearing the ‘breastplate of Righteousness’ doesn’t hurt either. This can be a tricky subject because other people’s morality and sense of justice may be different from yours. This can cause difficulties in itself, or outright hostility. (see every religious war EVER…)

Peace. An interesting concept. Peace can be defined as tranquility and quiet, or simply a cessation of war/conflict. I would like to think they are one and the same. Who doesn’t want to be prepared for peace when they enter war? You are going to war over some injustice, but once that wrong has been righted, it is time for peace and forgiveness. It is not a time for repercussions.

Faith. Sure there is faith in a higher power, but there is also faith in oneself and one’s personal ideals/beliefs and self worth. There are times where you are justified to ‘go to war’ over something or someone that has wronged you.

Salvation. Means different things to different religions. It doesn’t mean you have to be ‘saved’ from sin. It could simply be a means of preservation from harm, ruin, or loss. In this way, a ‘helmet of salvation’ could almost refer to keeping a level and cool head.

Now, the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God is pretty clear what they are referring to. I think you could adapt this to non-religious speak by thinking about it in a different light. The Word of God is a set of ideals put to paper. You have your own convictions and moral compass, whether it is grounded in the Christian faith or some other moral code. I haven’t researched it but I am sure even the Flying Spaghetti Monster has some sort of guidelines adherents are supposed to live by. That is all the sword is. It is your firm belief in something. The part that makes you you. So don’t give up that weapon when you go to war.

I suppose I rambled on a bit but I enjoyed this topic and it is something that speaks to my heart and soul. I hope the next time you face a difficult trial Gentle Readers, that you will take up your armor and push through to a positive conclusion. Until next time.