Chronicle of the Old West - Living the Code

In the Old West, there was an unwritten code of behavior. This code was passed on both verbally, and by the actions of men and women. Western writer Zane Grey first chronicled it as the “Code of the West.” This code stressed integrity, self-reliance and accountability. It relied on cooperation with neighbors in finding solutions to problems.

Thankfully, this “code” is alive and well today. Not only individuals, but city and county governments are operating based on this code of behavior.

We all have a friend, or maybe even more than one friend, who always seems to have things happen to them. If there’s one cow pie in the field, they step in it. Or maybe they get curious about things like, “What would happen if I lassoed a buffalo?”

Well, I have such a friend. His name is Cowboy Joe. Every time I see him, he has another story to tell. But, the great thing about Cowboy Joe is that even though he gets himself into some of the strangest situations, he’s philosophical about them. For instance, after stepping in that cow pie, he learned that you have to watch where you step when there’s a lot of bull around. As for lassoing the buffalo, well, I don’t think anyone’s that stupid.

What I’m going to do here is to pass on to you some of the stories that Cowboy Joe has told me. I cannot vouch for their authenticity, but quite possibility, we can learn from them anyway.

Our current Living the Code story...

GIFTED STUDENTS

It was the fall of the year. And even after eight years of teaching she still approached that first day with excitement. “What will my students be like this year? Will my students be gifted and dedicated this year?” she wondered to herself.

As in years past, she was given a one-page sheet with the names of the students in her class. But this year the school had listed their IQ score next to their names. In addition, all of the scores were remarkably high…from 130 to 155.

She was excited, yet more than a bit nervous. She would have to be more creative in her preparations. It would be necessary to give each student individual attention so they would perform up to their potential.

Knowing gifted children needed additional challenges, she prepared opportunities for extra credit.

The students met her every expectation. They were enthusiastic and attentive. Even the parents got involved. Although she worked longer and harder than ever before, she got great satisfaction from the results she saw.

During that year her students received a number of awards and achieved well beyond their grade level.

Child taking a bow.

At the end of the year she went to the principal. “I’m so grateful you gave me a class of gifted students. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve what I did without them.”

“What do you mean?” said the principal.

“Well, their IQ’s were between 130 and 155.”

“Oh no,” responded the principal. “Those weren’t IQ numbers. Those were locker numbers.”

People respond to our expectations. Be a good friend and neighbor.”

If you want to read past stories, click HERE.

If you would like to get more information about Living The Code and its importance in the United States becoming the preeminent nation that it presently is, visit www.LivingTheCode.org.

Click HERE to see an expanded version of The Code.