Patterns take 3 ~ Codes

I began this series of blog posts by referencing a quote from Dan Brown...let me complete it.  After talking about patterns, the main character says this, "Codes are special.  Cods, by definition, must carry information.  They must do more than simply form a pattern - codes must transmit data and convey meaning.  Examples of codes include written language, musical notation, mathematical equations, computer language, even a simple symbol of a crucifix.  All of these examples can transmit meaning or information in a way that a spiraling sunflowers cannot."

So, let me ask you, as you have noticed patterns in your life - the good/the bad/the ugly - what meaning to they convey?

While all codes are patterns...not all patterns are codes.  My pattern of a cup of coffee while checking email every morning is just my need for caffeine.  Not a whole lot of meaning or depth there.  But our pattern of weekly pizza and ice cream is tremendously filled with a code of meaning.  It is family time that strengthens our bonds and we look forward to each week.  Or, look at it another way, some times turning a pattern into a code is in the eye of the beholder.  Maybe you see the picture above like my son who loves computer codes...sees beauty in it...and it is one way he makes meaning in his life.  I see a bunch of random numbers that means nothing to me.  Likewise, you might hear a poem and yawn, while I hear that same poem and get lost in wonder while rapt in the beauty of the pattern of the words. 

Codes are important because we are meaning-making people.  We want to know why we are here and where are we going (those are two questions that drive Dan Brown's book by the way).  While many different voices try to help us with answers to those two questions, it is how we sort through the patterns of life to find codes that will be our ultimate guides.  We do need others to walk with us.  I need someone like my Spiritual Director to tell me a story about ruts to take my less than healthy patterns to find new codes (or ruts) for the living out of these days.

What codes do you discern from the patterns?
What meaning do you assign to your daily living ~ for better or worse?

I pray you will continue to sense more than a trace of God's grace as you step back to see your life from the beautiful complexity of patterns and codes that it is.

Blessings to you~~