Vision, Mission, and Values
Learn more about how we envision Shield Academy, what our ultimate mission is, and the core values that drive us to realize that vision and mission.
Our Vision
To serve and preserve our local, regional, and global communities, both online and in person.
We strive to serve these communities by providing support, assistance, and resources to individuals and organizations within those communities. This includes being responsive to the needs and concerns of the people living within those communities and working collaboratively with them to identify and address any issues or challenges that arise.
We hope to preserve these communities by working to protect and maintain their cultural, social, and environmental resources while fostering a sense of pride and belonging amongst members of these communities and ensuring they remain vibrant, thriving, and safe places to live for both current and future generations.
In an effort to realize this vision, we will reach out to individuals and organizations wherever they are in life using any mediums and avenues available to us.
Our Mission
To promote self-preservation through education and training in martial sciences and other forms of self-defense.
We strive to build, sustain and repair the best qualities of character in ourselves and others. We believe in promoting civility and unity and serving as beacons of light within our community.
We encourage service in the community through the six areas of administration, education, inspiration, provision, protection, and restoration. By promoting these values, we aim to make a positive impact on the world around us.
Administration
Our students and staff are working toward providing administrative support within our communities by offering or seeking out groups and individuals whom offer clerical services, act as brand ambassadors, work with the media, provide legal advice, or financial support through fundraising and donations.
Education
Our instructors act as a support team that volunteer training and education in areas of self-preservation for students of all ages, from small children to senior citizens. This training is based upon an adaptable curriculum that covers topics such as anti-bullying and anti-abduction, de-escalation, accelerated awareness, and preventative anti-predator tactics.
Inspiration
Our staff and students act as beacons of light that shine bright in the face of darkness. This may take the form of providing spiritual or emotional support during or after an emergency or tragedy, becoming an advocate for groups or individuals who need to be heard or recognized, or simply being a supportive and encouraging presence within our communities.
Provision
Our students and staff are committed to aiding in the sourcing and distribution of goods and services relating to nourishment, clothing, shelter, and mobility or transportation. This might include grounds-keeping and housekeeping aid, sourcing food and water during a crisis, finding or providing clothing and shelter, or providing auto maintenance and repair and finding sources of public transit.
Protection
We seek to provide a sense of safety and security in our communities by providing observational perimeter and facility security, encouraging and participating in neighborhood watches, becoming protective escorts or "bodyguards", serving as mediators whose purpose is to de-escalate or deter altercations or disputes, and offer immediate response to dangerous situation when necessary.
Restoration
Shield Academy is also dedicated to providing recovery and emergency support to members of our communities. This may manifest in assisting authorities in searching for missing persons, helping with post-disaster cleanup efforts, search and rescue operations, and even first response services and volunteer medical treatment and aid.
Our Declaration
This is our declaration. It is not just a collection of words. It is an explicit statement. A state and condition that each of us claims. It is an announcement of our intention. It is an affirmation designed to minimize and even destroy negativity and opposition.
Don't just read it—shout it out loud!
We are compassionate
We are enthusiastic
We are peace-keepers
We are strong
We are kind
We are just
We are humble
We are faithful
We are strong-willed
We are calm
We are confident
We are patient
We are temperate
We are aware
We seek knowledge & Wisdom
We are merciful
We are prepared for conflict
We are courageous
We are family
We are...
Our Core Values
The following sections provide detail and context about each of our nine core values. These nine concepts are the foundation and purpose for everything we believe in and practice as individuals and as an organization.
Compassion In Action
Compassion in action refers to the act of showing empathy and concern for others by taking concrete steps to help them in their time of need. It involves a deep understanding of the suffering and struggles that others may be experiencing and a genuine desire to alleviate that suffering in some way.
Compassion in action can take many forms, depending on the needs of the person or group being helped. For example, it might involve providing food, shelter, or medical care to those who are homeless or struggling with poverty. It might involve volunteering time and resources to support organizations that provide aid to those affected by natural disasters, conflicts, or other crises. It might also involve listening to and providing emotional support to those who are going through difficult times, such as illness, grief, or personal struggles.
One important aspect of compassion in action is that it is rooted in a sense of shared humanity and a belief in the inherent worth and dignity of all people. It involves seeing others as equals and recognizing that their struggles are just as valid and important as our own.
Compassion in action also involves a willingness to act, even in the face of challenges or obstacles. It requires courage, perseverance, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the world. Sometimes, it may involve taking risks or making sacrifices in order to help others.
Ultimately, compassion in action is about creating positive change in the world by responding to the needs of others with empathy, kindness, and a desire to make a difference. It is a powerful force for good that can help to build stronger, more resilient, and more compassionate communities.
Go In Peace
"Go in peace" can be seen as a way of reminding people that, no matter where they go or what they do, they can carry a sense of peace and calm within themselves. It is a reminder that peace is not just something that is found in external circumstances, but also something that can be cultivated within one's own heart and mind.
In a broader sense, "go in peace" can also be seen as an expression of a desire for peace and harmony in the world. It is a way of affirming the value of peaceful coexistence and encouraging others to strive for greater understanding, compassion, and empathy in their interactions with others.
Overall, "go in peace" is a message of goodwill and blessing that is intended to inspire feelings of warmth, comfort, and hope. It is a simple yet powerful way of reminding people of the importance of cultivating peace in their lives and in the world around them.
Live Like a Warrior
"Live like a warrior" is a phrase that evokes images of strength, resilience, and determination. It is a call to action that encourages people to approach life with courage, tenacity, and a willingness to face challenges head-on.
To live like a warrior means to embrace one's inner strength and to approach life with a sense of purpose and conviction. It means being willing to take risks and face adversity, even when the path ahead is difficult or uncertain.
Living like a warrior involves developing a mindset of resilience and perseverance. It means recognizing that setbacks and obstacles are a natural part of life, but that they can be overcome with determination and persistence. It involves having the courage to face one's fears and to step outside of one's comfort zone in pursuit of one's goals and aspirations.
At the same time, living like a warrior also involves a commitment to compassion, empathy, and kindness. It means recognizing that everyone is fighting their own battles, and that we are all in this together. It involves treating others with respect and dignity, even when we disagree or have different perspectives.
Ultimately, to live like a warrior is to approach life with a sense of purpose and passion, and to strive to make a positive impact on the world around us. It is a call to action that reminds us of the power of our own inner strength and encourages us to use that strength to make a difference in our own lives and in the lives of others.
The Diamond
"The Diamond" is a metaphor that is often used to describe the multifaceted nature of human consciousness and the journey of personal growth and transformation.
Just like a diamond, which is a precious gemstone that is formed over time through intense pressure and heat, our consciousness is shaped and refined by the experiences, challenges, and hardships that we face in life. The different facets of the diamond represent the various dimensions of our being, such as our thoughts, emotions, beliefs, values, and behaviors.
In this metaphor, the process of personal growth and transformation is akin to the process of polishing a rough diamond. As we navigate the ups and downs of life, we gradually remove the rough edges and imperfections that obscure our true brilliance and potential. We learn to cultivate qualities such as self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-compassion, which enable us to shine more brightly and radiate our inner light more fully.
The diamond metaphor also suggests that each of us is unique and valuable, with our own particular combination of strengths, weaknesses, and potential. Just as no two diamonds are exactly alike, each of us has our own unique set of qualities and attributes that make us who we are.
Overall, "the diamond" represents the idea that human consciousness is a multifaceted, precious, and constantly evolving entity that has the capacity to shine brightly and illuminate the world around us. It is a symbol of the beauty and complexity of the human experience, and a reminder that our greatest potential lies within us, waiting to be uncovered and unleashed.
Gratitude Regardless of Altitude
"Gratitude regardless of altitude" is a phrase that highlights the importance of cultivating an attitude of gratitude in all aspects of life, regardless of one's current circumstances or situation.
In this context, "altitude" can be interpreted in various ways, such as referring to one's social status, financial standing, physical health, or emotional well-being. Regardless of what particular "altitude" one finds themselves at in any given moment, the idea is that cultivating gratitude can have a powerful positive impact on one's outlook and overall well-being.
To practice gratitude regardless of altitude means to focus on the blessings, opportunities, and positive aspects of one's life, rather than dwelling on the negative or difficult aspects. It involves cultivating an awareness of the good things that one has, rather than taking them for granted or focusing solely on what one lacks.
This does not mean that one should ignore or deny the challenges and hardships that they may be facing, but rather that one should approach them with a perspective of gratitude and a willingness to learn and grow from them.
Practicing gratitude regardless of altitude also involves recognizing and appreciating the contributions and kindness of others, as well as expressing gratitude for the opportunities and resources that one has been given.
Overall, the phrase "gratitude regardless of altitude" encourages us to focus on the positive aspects of our lives, regardless of our current circumstances, and to cultivate an attitude of appreciation and gratitude for all that we have. It reminds us that gratitude is a powerful tool for cultivating happiness, resilience, and well-being, and that it is something that we can practice and develop regardless of our external circumstances.
Difficult Doesn't Mean Impossible
Perseverance is the ability to persist and continue working towards a goal, despite facing obstacles, setbacks, and challenges. It is a key characteristic of individuals who are successful in achieving their goals and overcoming adversity.
Perseverance involves a combination of determination, patience, resilience, and a willingness to keep going, even when the going gets tough. It requires a long-term focus and the ability to maintain motivation and momentum over an extended period of time.
Individuals who exhibit perseverance are not deterred by failure or setbacks, but rather view them as opportunities to learn, grow, and improve. They are willing to take risks and try new things, even if it means encountering difficulties or obstacles along the way.
Perseverance also involves a mindset of positivity and optimism. Rather than focusing on the challenges and obstacles that they face, individuals who exhibit perseverance maintain a positive attitude and a belief that they can overcome any obstacle with hard work and determination.
Overall, perseverance is a key characteristic of successful individuals and is essential for achieving long-term goals and overcoming adversity. It involves the ability to persist in the face of challenges, maintain motivation and momentum, and cultivate a positive attitude and a belief in oneself.
Truth Over Tradition and Fantasy
"Truth over tradition and fantasy" is a phrase that emphasizes the importance of seeking and prioritizing truth over blindly following tradition or engaging in wishful thinking and fantasy.
Tradition refers to long-established customs, beliefs, and practices that are passed down from generation to generation. While tradition can provide a sense of continuity and stability, it can also be a barrier to progress and innovation if it is blindly adhered to without critical examination.
Fantasy, on the other hand, refers to unrealistic or improbable ideas or scenarios that are often created as a form of escapism or wishful thinking. While fantasy can be entertaining and enjoyable, it can also be a distraction from reality and prevent us from confronting and addressing the challenges and problems that we face in our lives.
In contrast, truth refers to facts and evidence-based knowledge that is grounded in reality and can be verified through observation, experimentation, and analysis. Seeking truth involves a willingness to question assumptions, challenge beliefs, and engage in critical thinking and inquiry.
Putting truth over tradition and fantasy means being open to new ideas, perspectives, and information that challenge our existing beliefs and assumptions. It involves a willingness to let go of outdated or harmful traditions and to confront difficult truths, even if they are uncomfortable or inconvenient. It also involves recognizing the difference between reality and wishful thinking or escapism, and being willing to engage with the challenges and problems that we face in a constructive and realistic way.
Overall, "truth over tradition and fantasy" is a call to prioritize objective truth and critical thinking over blind adherence to tradition or indulgence in fantasy, in order to promote progress, growth, and a more accurate understanding of the world around us.
Family and Community
Family and community are both social units that are integral to human life and well-being. While they share many similarities, they also have distinct characteristics and functions.
Family is a social unit that typically consists of a group of people who are related by blood, marriage, or adoption. It is typically the first and most basic social unit that we belong to, and it provides us with a sense of belonging, support, and identity. Family members often share a common history, values, and culture, and they play important roles in each other's lives, such as providing emotional and practical support, sharing resources, and passing on traditions and values to future generations.
Community, on the other hand, refers to a group of people who share a common geography, culture, interests, or identity. Communities can be local, regional, national, or global, and they can be formed around a variety of shared characteristics, such as religion, ethnicity, language, profession, or interest. Communities provide opportunities for social interaction, shared experiences, and collective action, and they play important roles in promoting social cohesion, mutual support, and collective well-being.
While family and community are distinct social units, they are also closely interconnected and interdependent. Families are often an integral part of larger communities, and they contribute to the social fabric and well-being of those communities. In turn, communities provide families with resources, opportunities, and social support that can enhance their quality of life.
Overall, family and community are both important social units that contribute to human well-being and play important roles in shaping our identities, values, and experiences. While they are distinct entities, they are also closely interconnected and mutually supportive, and they both play essential roles in creating healthy and thriving societies.
Advancement of the Heavenly Kingdom
Advancement of the Heavenly Kingdom is the process of working towards the realization of a spiritual or divine vision for humanity and the world.
It refers to a state of being in which individuals live in harmony with God or the divine, and in which love, peace, and justice prevail. The advancement of the heavenly kingdom, therefore, refers to the process of working towards the realization of this vision, both individually and collectively.
Advancement of the heavenly kingdom can take many forms, depending on the religious tradition and the context in which it is used. It may involve personal spiritual growth and transformation, such as through prayer, meditation, or self-reflection, as well as collective efforts to promote social justice, alleviate suffering, and build communities that embody the values of the heavenly kingdom.
In some religious traditions, the advancement of the heavenly kingdom is seen as an ongoing process that will culminate in the eventual establishment of a new era of peace and harmony on Earth, often referred to as the "kingdom of God" or the "new Jerusalem". This vision provides a framework for action and a sense of purpose for individuals and communities that are working towards the realization of this goal.
Overall, the advancement of the heavenly kingdom is a concept that emphasizes the importance of working towards a higher spiritual and moral vision for humanity and the world, and of using this vision as a guiding principle for personal and collective action. It highlights the transformative power of spiritual and moral values, and the potential for individuals and communities to create a better world through their actions and intentions.
Belong and get involved
The desire for change and difference is not enough. Action must be taken.
With Shield Academy you could participate in one or more of the 6 areas of service in local communities. Administration, education, inspiration, provision, protection and restoration. Making a difference, building real-world experience and developing life-long relationships.