Living by a Code

The idea of “living by a code” is deeply philosophical and can offer a profound sense of direction, purpose, and discipline. In contrast to those who float through life, living by a personal or moral code provides clarity, shaping decisions, behaviors, and interactions with others. It serves as a foundation for navigating challenges, setting priorities, and maintaining core values.

What Does “Living by a Code” Mean?

• A code can be a set of personal principles, ethics, or values that guide how someone lives their life. For example, the Biblical Ten Commandments, the Babylonian Code of Hammurabi, or the Warrior’s Code of Ethics all provide structure for how individuals should behave.
• On a personal level, living by a code means making conscious decisions based on principles you deeply value—honesty, integrity, loyalty, compassion, self-discipline, etc.
• The alternative to living by a code can be seen as floating through life—letting circumstances and others dictate one’s behavior without direction or intent.

Why Do People “Float Through Life”?

• Lack of Awareness: Some people haven’t consciously developed or embraced a personal code. They may simply react to life’s events, instead of acting with purpose and intention.
• External Influence: In today’s world, external forces such as societal expectations, media, and cultural trends can shape decisions. This often leads individuals to follow the crowd rather than live according to their own principles.
• Lack of Guidance or Reflection: Without mentors, role models, or personal reflection, it’s easy to lose sight of one’s deeper purpose. People may get caught up in daily distractions, never questioning if they are living according to their values.

The Value of Living by a Code

• Purpose: A code helps define what is most important in life, providing a clear sense of direction. When faced with challenges, a personal code acts as an internal compass, guiding decision-making.
• Resilience: People who live by a code often demonstrate greater resilience because their choices are informed by principles, not external pressures or fleeting emotions.
• Personal Integrity: Living by a code helps align actions with values, fostering a sense of integrity. You are less likely to feel conflicted or regretful when your actions reflect your core beliefs.

Where Do I Get This Personal Code?

• As a Christian, I get my personal code from the Bible, though I also find the Warrior’s Code aligns with mine in certain aspects. My code includes:
  • Honor: Upholding bravery, loyalty, and honesty.
  • Respect for Women: Protecting and respecting women, especially those of noble character.
  • Humility: Practicing modesty and service to others.
  • Justice: Upholding justice and protecting the innocent.
  • Piety: Faithfulness to God and the Church.
  • Defend Your Clan: Loyalty to your community, even at great personal cost.
  • Do Not Trespass: Respecting boundaries and not infringing on others’ territory.

• Spend time reflecting on what values matter most to you. These might include honesty, kindness, self-discipline, faith, or responsibility.

• Learn from Role Models: For me, Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate role model. His declaration of the Great Commandment has guided my decisions, and I’ve yet to encounter a circumstance where it hasn’t provided clarity.
• Be Consistent: A code isn’t just a set of words—it’s about consistent action. Try to live each day according to your values, even in small ways. Consistency is key.

Contrast with the “Flow” State

Living by a code is often seen as the opposite of “floating through life.” However, it can be argued that people who live by a code are in a deeper state of flow, where their actions and decisions align with their highest values and purpose.

Living by a code often requires sacrifices—whether social alienation, personal challenges, or the effort required to act with integrity. But the reward is greater: a deeper sense of fulfillment, peace, and authenticity.

Living with Purpose and Intentionality

Living by a code isn’t about rigidity or dogmatism; it’s about creating a foundation that helps you navigate life’s complexities with purpose and intentionality. Those who float through life lack that clarity and direction, while those who live by a code are actively engaged, moving forward with a clear sense of mission.

The Great Commandment

In Matthew 22:36-40, Jesus speaks of the Great Commandment:

“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And He said to him, “‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.’ This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ Upon these two commandments hang the whole Law and the Prophets.”

There is profound simplicity in this commandment. It’s not always clear how to apply these principles in every circumstance, but as you grow, learn, and experience life, your understanding of how to live according to this code will deepen. The more you live it, the clearer the application becomes.