The Jedi Code:

There is no emotion, there is peace
There is no ignorance, there is knowledge.
There is no passion, there is serenity.
There is no death, there is the Force

The Jedi are guardians of peace in the galaxy. Jedi use their powers to defend and protect, never to attack others. Jedi respect all life, in any form. Jedi serve others rather than rule over them, for the good of the galaxy. Jedi seek to improve themselves through knowledge and training.

This is what I've been taught for most of my life. It is the true path of the Jedi, a path in which isn't for everyone... you give up a home, a family... a normal life. But to be a Jedi is quite an honor, and most wouldn't trade it for anything else in the galaxy.