As someone who works from home most days I stare at the same four ways before, during, and after my workday so anytime I get a chance to get out I try and take it.
So, over the last week I've had a chance to jump in the car and head to both a Masonic Veterans' program and a meeting with the other District Deputy Grand Masters in my jurisdiction and there's nothing like being on the road. The hum of the tires on the roadway, the chance to think about things, and just enjoy being out from the house.
During these travels this week I took the time to give some thought to where we are now versus where we were just a year ago, we were on Zoom calls instead of zooming down the highway. How things have changed yet remain the same. The roadways are a bit less congested at times than I remember however, there are still the same challenges of road work, accident, and of course, the odd driver who just seems to be out of touch with those around him.
It's a lot like a journey in Freemasonry. There's the initial excitement of getting started, it's upbeat and all unicorns and rainbows, and you're looking forward to the journey. Then that excitement wears off and there's the danger you'll get impatient and rush things. You have to be willing to just continue methodically and stay focused as you pass through the middle part of the journey. Once you get to the destination you realize that there's another part of the journey, something to look forward to, even if it's the trip home.
What you don't realize is that you're not the same driver you were when you started. You've gained a bit more experience, you look at things a bit differently, and you handle the trip with a bit more ease. You might not even realize the difference in you, but it's there.
The same occurs on our journey in Freemasonry, every time we crack open a book, look at ritual, attend an event or meeting, we change a bit. That change shifts our focus and we become a better Mason and a better person.
So the next time you get behind the wheel, whether it's your car or your Masonic journey, take the time to enjoy it and reflect on what you're learning on the journey.