RESOL’NARE 1/6 – WEAR YOUR ARMOR:
Wearing the armor:
While lifelike replicas of Mandalorian armor do exist, some which even offer protective qualities, and these are often quite impressive, the Mandalorian Order is not about cosplaying and dressing up. Wearing the armor has deeper meaning than dressing up. It is about both preserving the symbols of what makes us unique in the face of pressure to conform, and about shielding aspects of ourselves and families which makes us vulnerable and can be exploited. Where possible, this also means the literal wearing of Armor and protective equipment if appropriate.
Armor may by physical body armor, (which is encouraged as a warrior) but to “Wear your armor” goes beyond that – you should adopt the warrior’s mindset, or as the Japanese Samurai called it “The Way of the warrior.”
o Prepare yourself for the battles you will encounter both internally and externally and strengthen the areas you are vulnerable. Plan what courses of action your enemies may take, and what course of action you can take. Your powerful enemy is self-doubt and apathy – plan ways on how to overcome this within yourself before you encounter it, and initiate your “Actions on Contact,” as soon as you recognize it.
o Keep your weapons ready and with you: Your foes will strike when you are least prepared. You should hone your body as a weapon as well through training, and a healthy diet. Your most powerful weapon is your mind, hone this as well through great thinking and a healthy mental diet.
o Adapting to Leadership Roles: Mandalorians, especially clan leaders, must embody the warrior’s mindset not only in self-preparation but also in preparing their subordinates for the battles ahead. This includes recognizing the unique capabilities of each individual and providing them with the tools, knowledge, and motivation to overcome obstacles. Leadership should be seen as part of one’s armor, where effective communication and mentorship are as critical as physical readiness.
— A note to those who would conceal their face from non-Mandalorians as part of their practice: (The Way of The Helmet)
Some Mandalorians may take the personal or clan oath to never reveal their face to one who does not follow The Way (a non-Mandalorian). This section is intended to provide additional support and suggestions for individuals or clans who chose to walk this path. In modern society, it is often difficult to avoid the requirement from “public safety” or security workers to show one’s face on demand, so they may be identified. For those who walk this path, it is strongly encouraged for those who make contact with these organizations to immediately identify themselves as a Mandalorian, walking in The Way of The Helmet, and you cannot reveal your face. If you are instructed to reveal your face, ask for a security member who is a Mandalorian. If there are none available, you will be required to make a personal decision on how to proceed – understand that by walking the Way of The Helmet, that it is often extremely shameful to be forced to show your face to a non-Mandalorian. For those able, it is strongly encourage that you grow full facial hair, as this, depending on your clan and personal beliefs, may suffice to prevent your face from being revealed even without a mask or helmet; for women or those unable to grow facial hair, a veil or some form of face concealment easily identified as being for religious purposes may assist you in keeping your face concealed when in contact with security organizations.
– A face mask which you identify as being for religious purposes and should not be removed.
– A beard (for those able to grow one).
– A veil, scarf or shmeagh that covers your face.
– A Muslim-style covering (hijab, niqab, etc) – these, however, may be ambiguous and be seen as cultural appropriation or disrespectful, so caution is advised if this choice is made.
What circumstances under which you may remove these articles and what the penalties for the removal are will depend on your clan or personal guidelines but should be written and strictly adhered to.
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