Just this week I had an opportunity be present at the raising of two new Master Masons. It's something that we've all be looking forward to. Seeing new Master Masons raised and become members of their Lodges, strengthening the fraternity while knowing that they are well off as they start their journey.
And a journey it is.
One that many miss out on because they focus on what the goal should be and not what the journey can provide them. Yes, there are obstacles put in our paths as we travel, and the means to overcome those obstacles are placed along the route as well. Take a moment and think about your own journey so far, did you ever encounter an obstacle you couldn't overcome - if you took the time to utilized the resources at your disposal?
What brought a smile to my face after the degree, and there were many things could, was the fact that before these two young men left the room they were given an experience as well as additional counsel and challenges to help them forge ahead.
They were treated to a piece of ritual seen rarely - On Yonder Book. The brother who performed that piece truly feels it. He has an emotional attachment to it. Yes, we're taught to subdue our passions but that doesn't mean we shouldn't show our emotions. You could feel his connection to that piece and you could see the impact it had on our newest Master Masons.
They were treated to a bit of advice and counsel by the Grand Education Officer of our Jurisdiction. He encouraged them to continue to seek out answers, and to read - giving each a book by Carl Claudy. He offered up his own time for discussion as well as several other who were present.
The Grand Lecturer, being a member of this Lodge, encouraged them to learn more of the ritual and gave each a copy of the ritual works for our Jurisdiction for them to refer to and charged both with learning a piece and returning it in the spring. I have no doubt they both will.
Finally, in my role as a District Deputy Grand Master, I encouraged them to travel and gave each a copy of our Jurisdiction's Masonic Passport. One of the great things about our fraternity is that you get a chance to travel and see how others do things. We shouldn't limit ourselves to just degree work, but also regular business meetings, table lodges, and a host of other events and activities so that we can see a fuller embodiment of the Craft.
So yes, see all of that, along with so many brethren coming together for the event certainly brought a smile to my face as I reflected on it.
When's the last time you smiled after a Lodge meeting, degree or otherwise? Why not click on the comment option and share it with others.