Why the Cowboy Code is Not Frivolous

[craigepo]

Originally Posted by bandycpa

The question about the different military creeds came from my fascination with the Ranger Creed. In 6 simple yet profound stanzas,

I really enjoyed the fact that the 1st letter of each paragraph began with the letters RANGER. This allowed young rangers like me to easily memorize the creed, which in turn allowed me to get some minor plus spot reports at R.I. changeover each morning in Ranger school. Sleepy ranger students like myself always needed help in this regard. Hell, I can still recite that creed, even when sleepy or hungry.

Many denominations within the Christian Church have, for centuries, repeated creeds such as the Apostle's Creed, the Nicean Creed, and others. The ideas underlying the creeds, and often the creeds themselves, were memorized by the congregation after hearing the recitation dozens of times. Pretty effective way of teaching doctrine at a time with limited technology.

[bandycpa]

Originally Posted by craigepo

I really enjoyed the fact that the 1st letter of each paragraph began with the letters RANGER. This allowed young rangers like me to easily memorize the creed, which in turn allowed me to get some minor plus spot reports at R.I. changeover each morning in Ranger school. Sleepy ranger students like myself always needed help in this regard. Hell, I can still recite that creed, even when sleepy or hungry.

Many denominations within the Christian Church have, for centuries, repeated creeds such as the Apostle's Creed, the Nicean Creed, and others. The ideas underlying the creeds, and often the creeds themselves, were memorized by the congregation after hearing the recitation dozens of times. Pretty effective way of teaching doctrine at a time with limited technology.

Growing up in a "metho-costal" church, I didn't know that the Apostle's Creed or Nicene Creed existed (It was a small, country church...the first time I heard the term "narthex" I had no idea what that was either). When I moved to another area after starting my accounting practice, I started going to a Methodist church. We said the Apostle's Creed every Sunday. I didn't study it, but it wasn't long until I could say it word-for-word. First I memorized it, and then I pondered on it. As you said craigepo, creeds are a simple, effective way to teach doctrine. Memorization followed by reflection results in indoctrination (not saying that's a bad thing).

[Utah Bob]

Originally Posted by Dusty

Yeah, that's the Brokeback Mountain Cowboy Code

THEY WERE SHEEPHERDERS, NOT COWBOYS!

[Sigaba]

"Cowboy Ethics" was written by James Owen, an investment professional who after Enron and the other Wall Street scandals of a few years ago, decided it was time to take a good look at what we had become as a society and individuals. Like me he has a great deal of respect and admiration for the iconic American cowboy and the cowboy way of life.

He came up with his "Code of the West" which states some simple common sense principles that not just cowboys but all of us should try to live by.

The code includes admonitions such as "Live each day with courage," "Be tough, but fair," "Ride for the brand," and "Know where to draw the line."

How much did Mr. Owen make on these and other 'scandals' before deciding to ride on the high road? How much is Mr. Owen making now off from the Center for Cowboy Ethics and Leadership <<LINK>>?

In reference to posts #3 and#31, a question. Do we as civilians help or hinder civil-military relations when we appropriate aspects of the warrior ethos to use in our everyday lives?

By the way hookers are now called "escorts" and they have become a part of mainstream popular culture thanks to Spitzer and actor Charlie Sheen.

Charlie Sheen wishes he had that kind of influence...with his pharmacist.

(Mr. Dorinson has apparently never heard of Holly Golightly. Or The Village Voice. Or Craigslist.)

[1stindoor]

I hate to split hairs on this one but there is definitely a caste system to the "women of ill repute."

Your "street walker" or "prostitute" is probably at the very bottom of said system. Escorts are usually of a higher social order and as such charge higher rates. You're not going to find them working the streets, hanging around truck stops, or sitting around in hotel lobbies. They also tend to dress nicer, in order to appear more than what they are.

The type that blew it for Spitzer...no pun intended...are paid a lot to keep their mouth shut...again no pun intended...and stay out of the limelight.

[Dusty]

Originally Posted by Utah Bob

THEY WERE SHEEPHERDERS, NOT COWBOYS!

My bad. Never saw the movie.