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Light side

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Some would argue the Force is based off of the Yin-Yang principle: two equal sides of a complete whole, but Lucas never saw it that way.

In life there is always a choice to be made, whether to participate in good deeds or evil deeds. Yet it does not matter how many people clothe themselves in black or how many befriend R2 units, each side is only as powerful as the weapons in its arsenal; green and red light sabers excluded.

The Sith have an appearance of power since their "control" of the force is more impressive. Darth Vader was capable of tearing just about anything apart by simply willing it. What did Luke do for the first few movies? But this is an unfair distinction for one glaring reason: Darth Vader (with the exception of Yoda) was the only Jedi Master left. Luke was the proverbial baby. Even in the last movie, though Luke's skills were improving, the special effects didn't allow us a very good glimpse of the true range of his abilities. Thankfully, in the newest trilogy, Lucas brought the balance of power back into correct proportion. Darth Maul battled two Jedis at once (one of which was a master) without breaking a black and red sweat. But no one, not even diminutive Yoda, was left out of the "impressive abilities" category. Sure, Dooko pulled down a massive piece of equipment, but look who kept it from falling. It may also be argued that the Dark Side of the Force was more powerful because of its number of adherents. Popularity is never the measure of a belief system. If that were the case mankind would still believe the world is flat, the earth is the center of the universe, and that bathing regularly is bad for their health.

The true judge of power is never destructive-force or public charisma. Was Hitler powerful? Was Stalin? How about Satan? No one would argue they didn't have quite impressive, and persuasive abilities. But who beat Hitler? Stalin? And Who will eventually destroy Satan? Why is it the good side of life wins out time and time again? Lucas understood that the ability to love, to show mercy, and to glory in goodness dominates the ring regardless of the color of the the blade. The Sith would destroy without a thought. The Jedis couldn't not consider the consequences. Standing up for the trodden down, giving to those who have nothing to give, and the ability to embrace differences of opinion will overcome regardless of the opposition. Vader fought for pride. Luke fought for his father. The Emperor was selfishness incarnate. Obi-Wan gave the ultimate gift to help others.

Qui-Gon thought Anakin was going to bring balance to the Force. He merely tipped it violently in the direction of darkness. It was Luke who fulfilled the prophecy. It was Luke who delivered the universe.

Which side of the force is more powerful? Which side won?

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