Wednesday 17 August 2011

A Code

Do you have a code that you live by?
Ancient warriors often had a rigorous set of rules or tenets to live by. It was a way to maintain order among a bunch of people who trained to fight. It was also a way to allow people to strive toward a goal. The goal was to be a better person, to have more honour, or to be held in higher regard.
The modern world seldom has anything similar to offer a person. The closest thing is the media. The media tells people what they should look like, what they should own, the type of lifestyle they should lead, and what the hot topics of the moment are. But, it never actually encourages one to develop character or to show honour to others. It does not encourage integrity and truthfulness. The main focus is 'me'. Me first.
There is much to be said for living by a code however. Having a code makes one accountable, which leads to acting responsibly. It gives one a barometer by which to measure oneself, and if needed to strive towards improvement. It trains one in reaching for goals. It helps one to be a better child, sibling, or parent. Virtuous people are rare, and valued by any who have the sense to see virtue as a positive trait.
Having a code will not make life easier, but it will give more quality to the time you spend on the surface of the ground. And if you pass it on to others, it will do the same for them.
What virtues do you deem especially noteworthy? Make those part of your personal code. Live by them.
Accept a code. Accept responsibility for your actions. Be better. Live better.

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