PREVAIL.
The definition of prevail is: (n) to prove more powerful than opposing forces; to be victorious... And that is our goal for you here at SARCRAFT. Period.
Within each and every one of us, a fire burns to remind us of that which is most important to us - who we are. Creating symbols is unique to the human species and is one of the most outstanding features which distinguishes us from all other life. Today, we have examples of symbols that date back thousands of years, all over the world, pre-dating much farther back than the development of written or even spoken languages. Simple engravings in rocks brought about a deeper meaning than words could ever fully express. They served to communicate vast amounts of information quickly and efficiently. Deeply engrained in our evolution, transcending all language barriers, they are just as prevalent in our current world and continue to fulfill the very same goal.
The “Greek Cross” is the most widely used symbol in history, and the most ancient form of the cross symbol. It is a simple symmetric shape consisting of two equal perpendicular lines, which intersect in the center, forming four equal members. It predates Christianity and is commonly referred to as the "Balanced Cross." To the Greeks, it was a representation of the four cardinal directions (North, South, East and West). Plato referred to that cross in The Republic as also being a symbol of the four cardinal virtues (prudence, justice, fortitude and temperance). He proposed these were the virtues one should guide their life with and that all other virtues hinge on those. In order to have a balanced life, the people must have a symbol to guide them.
Other cultures found symbolism in the “Balanced Cross” as well. The Egyptians, for example, used it as a representation of the sun, which brings warmth and light. The Assyrians, Babylonians and Persians used the cross to represent the basic elements (earth, water, wind and fire). The Phoenicians used the cross as a symbol of secret knowledge, bestowed only to a few, while the Christians later adopted it as a symbol of the greatest example of love- self sacrifice.
The “Maltese Cross” is a version of the “Greek Cross” with flayed ends, used as a heraldic design, where it is referred to as the “Pattee Cross”. Heraldry is the art form used to represent and fulfill our desire to belong somewhere, to be an essential member of something significant which serves a higher purpose. It was first employed in the feudal ages to display the exploits of chivalry, and to reward, as well as to commemorate triumphs over perceived oppression and violence. The word "pattee" is French for "paw" or, loosely translated, to represent a "footed cross." It is used all over the world as a symbol of selflessness, honor and bravery.
The earliest adoption of this cross was used by monks who made it their duty to intentionally place themselves in harm's way, with a willingness to sacrifice their lives, to aid and safely transport all travelers in trouble. This was done without passing judgment or questioning motive. Historical documents state they believed this was the ultimate act of man- a willingness to sacrifice one's life in the service of others. This was the birth of the Knight and the origin of Search and Rescue's motto, "Facta Non Verba. Nec Timebo... Non Enum Ut, Aliis Sit Vivre." -Actions, not words. I will not fear... These things we do, that others may live.
The color of the cross was and is of utmost importance to those who choose to bear it. Orange is the symbol of endurance and strength- the color of fire and flame. It represents the red of passion tempered by the yellow of wisdom. It is the symbol of the sun, love, happiness, humility and good health. It is for this reason that the "Safety Orange Cross" is internationally recognized as the "Emergency Response Cross". The "Red Cross" is actually protected under the Geneva Conventions Act. That emblem is not a public domain "First Aid" symbol and neither should the "Safety Orange Cross" be used to represent "First Aid"...
The International Standards Organization recommends the "Green Cross" as the "First Aid" symbol. Green symbolizes the breaking of shackles and freedom from bondage. It is the color of fertility, bountifulness, hope and victory of life over death. It duly embodies luck, nature, environmental awareness, prosperity and new life. It was to this purpose, some 900 years ago, the Hospitallers of St. Lazarus adopted the "Green Cross"- the symbol of nature and life, irrespective of organized religion. To represent life in a spiritual sense, they felt there was no more suitable color than green. When taking history into account, the color red was associated with bloodshed for the wrong reasons- money, power and control. Disassociating from these motives, the "Green Cross" was notably chosen to represent the growth, care, and ongoing maintenance of one's health.
The composition of a displayed cross bears an additional significance as well. For example, Dogwood is typically associated with Christ's death and therefore the choice of most Latin crosses. The Celts choose the wood of the Oak to provide protection for their leaders and warriors as a symbol of truth, bravery and power. A cross made of iron is typically used in politics and war as a symbol of victory.
"Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it." -George Santayana
History reminds us that the kingdom is always in some form of peril. It’s not a matter of “if,” but “when” we will experience that peril first hand on our own soil. Thomas Jefferson said, “If there’s something wrong, those who have the ability to take action, have the responsibility to take action.” We believe in the SAR motto, “Action, Not Words. We Will Not Fear… These Things We Do, That Others May Live.” SARCRAFT is sending out a beacon; a call to like-minded individuals who believe they belong as an essential member of something significant with which to serve a higher purpose. The cross of our tribe is a symbol of that higher purpose.
We chose pine for the composition of our cross. Throughout the entire span of recorded human history, the fruit of the pine has served as a symbolic representation of human enlightenment. Pine trees are one of the most ancient plant genera on the planet, having existed nearly three times longer than all flowering plant species. Because of this, it is most commonly referred to as the “Tree of Life”. Thriving all over the planet, in both hemispheres, revered by every culture, it is one of our most abundant resources, and serves to meet every priority of survival. The Pine’s ability to remain flexible and adaptable has allowed it to truly endure the test of time. Through everything from wars to climate change, the pine tree has earned the title of the “Survival Tree”.
We seek to empower you through not only knowledge, but the practical application of that knowledge. By practicing and honing your skill sets, you will gain the confidence to act when opposing forces show up at your door. You will not only survive, you will thrive, with this tribe as a part of you. Wisdom, Justice, Courage and Self-Discipline will guide you on your path to victory. You will possess the know-how to navigate life’s obstacles. You won’t have to guess how to utilize earth’s resources, you will know how to both use and manage them. You will be the strongest version of yourself that you can be, navigating others out of the darkness with you. You will not fear. The heraldic, pattee cross- THE SARCRAFT CROSS- will be the symbol of your strength and determination to emerge victorious. You will PREVAIL.
