Let me explain. As a Quaker we have what are called “Queries”. These are questions, which we reflect upon both as a community and as individuals. They are not rules, but rather guidance for reflection/meditation. They are an ideal to constantly work towards. Sounds like our Code of Mindful Action, yes? Most likely, neither will be perfectly achieved, as we are all of us fallible, but they serve to positively frame our life journey.

One Quaker Query is “Do you strive to develop your physical, emotional and mental capacities toward reaching your Divinely given potential?” That sounds a lot like “I cultivate a positive attitude, a healthy body, and a clear mind, I avoid whatever would reduce my physical or mental well-being.

Another Query is “Do you endeavor to widen your circle of friendships within the Meeting, seeking to know persons of all ages and at all stages of the spiritual journey?”. Reminds me of “I develop significant relationships, I avoid abusing others for selfish gain.”

A third Query is “Are love and harmony within the Meeting community fostered by a spirit of open sharing? Do you endeavor to widen your circle of friendships within the Meeting, seeking to know persons of all ages and at all stages of the spiritual journey?” This Query reminds me of the final lines from the Code, “I work to build love, happiness, and loyalty among all the members of my family. I avoid putting temporary personal benefit ahead of the welfare of those I love.” During times of difficulty, such that we face now, this feels of utmost importance. Without a strong community, what do we really have?

These are just three examples, but I’ve noted a parallel for every line of the Code of Mindful Action with the Quaker Queries. I am obviously not suggesting that To-Shindo and Quakerism are identical twins separated at birth, but they both encourage us to develop a strong moral compass. In these trying times, both our children and we adults are so hungry for anything that encourages us in this way.

At the end of reciting my portion of the Code of Mindful Action, I often say “Amen” under my breath. Amen of course means, “yes before God I agree with that, I believe that to be true, I want that to be so”.

So, I do not mean to proselytize to anyone, but rather just share with you why I believe the Code of Mindful Action is so powerful for all of us, in it’s entirety. I for one would feel it to be a loss if the Code were pared down in anyway.

We avoid gossip and small talk because those habits lead to less mindfulness, less appreciation for the preciousness of each moment of each day, and dull us (or poison us) to the bigger possibilities at work in our connection to others.

Small talk is avoided because it wastes our time. But if a friend is unhappy and can’t listen to wise advice, we can joke, tell funny stories, and chit-chat to lighten the mood. Because our motivation is to help, our joking around is positive. Laughing and having a good time are not opposed to meaningful living. The really advanced beings I’ve been fortunate to spend time with have a wonderful sense of humor and are very friendly.

Gossip is avoided because it lowers our ideals. Speaking of others’ troubles as a form of personal entertainment or making oneself seem important is the opposite of what motivates us as a noble protector. But if we are speaking negatively about others as a way of warning friends about dangerous, unethical, or criminal behavior that could impact us, that is a form of responsibility The key is recognizing our motivation. Are we enjoying speaking ill of others in an egotistical way, or are we warning others to protect them? Not always easy to call accurately.

To-Shin Do should not be an isolated path, and it’s important for warrior protectors to cultivate group unity and companionship. Sometimes this means just letting off the forward throttle and enjoying some down time sharing the lighter enjoyments of life. You can learn a lot about people by listening to what makes them laugh.