May 31, 2008
Euless, Texas
I posed the question to our world-wide list of readers; "Why are you a Mason?" NOT- why did you BECOME a Mason --- but the emphasis being on why they are STILL Masons. It's my fervent hope that something said on this page will help others stay the Masonic course, or get energized to help in their Lodge. We have one trip through this life. I believe we should try to make a positive difference by our being here and I believe that Masonry is an outstanding way to make that happen.
I haven't reformatted these. They are just as they were sent to me. Too many times I think we "sterilize" things so much in the name of "proper English" (with apologies to my wonderful sister, the English teacher!) that we lose some of the feeling of the author.
My thanks to all you who have and who will write. And my thanks to those of you reading this.
Best Wishes!
carl
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**This was the first response I got and Brother Davis gets to go to the head of the line! I am a Freemason today because I am still learning things about Masonry that always interest and intrigue me. From the time I was initiated in January 1964, I have always been excited about teaching new Masons their catechism, reading books about the history of Masonry thru the centuries, and just meeting with my Masonic brothers at stated business meetings, called meetings, and even visiting other Lodges in my state and other jurisdictions. I could go on and write pages, but I will not bore anyone with that. I believe with all my being, that you get out of Freemasonry what you put into it. My name is Burnell R. Davis PM of Vincennes Lodge #1, in Vincennes IN. I was 25 years of age when I was raised a Master Mason and I am currently 69. I served as Wor. Master of this Lodge in 1987. I was appointed Secretary on July 5, 1999, after the then Secretary resigned the office. I finished out the year and was elected Secretary in December of that year and have been re-elected each year since I am also active in the local York Rite Bodies where I am in my 21st consecutive year as Secretary-Recorder. So you see I really do enjoy my Freemasonry. I also belong to several other Masonic related groups and organizations and have been past presiding officers in many of them Fraternally, Burnell R. Davis |
| Why I Became A Mason Wor. Paul K. Little P.M. Manchester #14 AF&AM Richmond, VA I became a Mason in 1999 at age 43. I m now 52 years old. I was working for a fellow who asked me & my music partner to play at a function for a Shriner’s Unit, The Mini-Patrol. After 2 or 3 such jobs I noticed that I was always surrounded by good natured, interesting people and one day I asked him ‘how can I join this club’. He got me a petition to a Blue Lodge, I filled it out and before I knew it I was going through the Degrees. When I decided to join the Masons I knew little if anything of the Craft and was only joining so that I could become a Shriner. I didn’t really even know what that would come to mean to me; only that I’d be around those friendly, good natured, interesting people. I wasn’t really even interested in the Blue Lodge except as a stepping stone to the Shriners. But once I became involved in Blue Lodge instruction I was hooked. I eagerly joined the Officer’s line in my lodge and for the next five years worked hard at learning the degree work, participating in Lodge business, and eventually instructing others in Craft work. In 2006 I became Worshipful Master of my Lodge. A great honor indeed as our Lodge is one of the oldest in Virginia – 221 years old. My motto during my year as Worshipful Master was “FREEMASONRY – SPREAD THE WORD”. My message was and is this; we have been silent too long. We need to talk to our sons, our grandsons, our nephews, our neighbor’s sons, grandson and nephews, and anybody that will stand still long enough to hear us. We’ve spent thousands of dollars helping our sons and grandsons through college. They’ve spent perhaps 4 or even 7 or more years of their life getting an education so that they could make a living and support a family. But what do we really want for them? We want them to have it better than we did. We want them to be good, family men and ideally, pillars of the community. Look around you at the leaders of the community; the social leaders, business leaders, financial leaders, political leaders. What do they have in common? Almost without exception they are members of some benevolent, charitable, service or fraternal organization. Do you think they joined because they were leaders? Or did they become leaders because they joined? We don’t need to ask people to become Masons but we do need to insist that they become a part of something. Tell them what Masonry has done for you; what it can do for them; what it can do for their family; what it can do for society. Don’t wait. Do it now. For the good of your loved ones. For the good of the Craft. For the good of society. And I’m still involved. I’m and instructor and ProTem Officer in my Blue Lodge. I’m Active in the Shrine; within my unit, a club, the hospital committee, the speaker’s bureau and the Aide Staff. And all I can think is I want to do more! That may not be the reason I became a Mason. But that’s the reason I STAY a Mason. Paul Little |
| Bro. Carl, Simply stated, I am a Mason because of the members. As people go, we are really a great bunch of guys. Sure, we all have our quirks, but as a group we stand out of the crowd. People sometimes judge us by the company we keep and we tend to gravitate to those who are like us and share similar values. That is what I have found in Masonry. Even though we may have political or religious differences, we share certain values that are very dear to us and cross all racial, cultural, political, religious and economic boundaries. My Masonic friends are my best friends and the ones with whom I socialize usually. Jay Cullar Jewel P. Lightfoot Lodge Dallas, TX Age 38 Master Mason at age |
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I NEED this info to post your reply on the
website:
Your Name Herb Merrick
Your Lodge Name and Location
Mother Lodge Forsyth 543
Forsyth Mo
Current Lodge Hancock 311 on Fort Leavenworth
KS
Other membership Solomon 822 ACGL Stuggart
German.
I would LIKE to have this information too,
please.
Your age now _21_ Your age when you became a Master Mason___55__
I am in this for the fellowship of like
minded men. We do not always agree, but we are friends we see
each other and work together on things we decide need to be
done. Over my time with the lodge I have sat with men all
around the world and the country we have been involved (as much
as we could) in doing things but more important in being there
for each other a place where once a week or month you could go
and have someone who was there with you.
Herb Merrick
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I am still a Mason because Masons needs me . My lodge needs me .I was made a mason on April 18th 1955.It is time for me to move on but i can't. I still have work to do. I am the only one left that has a Al. Grand Lodge Certificate. At one time we had a lot of them but at one time we had about Six hundred members and now about Two Hundred My Lodge is Dwight Lodge #550 Gadsden Al.35904 Box4242 Thanks for the good work you do I was 82 on Feb. 11th this year
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My name is Geoffrey Grigg
My English Lodge is St Andrew 4276, Plymouth, Devonshire,
England
My age now is 70 Years, became a Master Mason in 1970 in Lodge
Cochno 1304 Scottish Constitution
You ask why am I still a Freemason?. That is very hard to
simplify, there are so many aspects of what Freemasonry is and
what it does to put into an e-mail.
But five little words come to mind, that to me says it all,
Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth
My answer is probably not the kind of answer you are seeking,
but those words have stayed with me for the last 38 years and
why I am still a Freemason
Sincerely and Fraternally
W.Bro. Geoff Grigg,
P.M. St Andrew Lodge No 4276
Plymouth, Devonshire, England
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| Brethren, Friends and Visitors: It occurred to me that if I'm asking the question of Why YOU are a Mason, I should answer the question of why I'M a Mason, too! Here goes --- I am a Mason because as a Christian I believe we are here for a purpose. I believe God has a plan for each of our lives. It's my belief that helping the less fortunate, sharing wonderful times with incredible Brothers and enjoying life to it's fullest, is part of God's plan for my life. Being a Mason lets me do all of those things, and many more. I remain a Mason today, not because of a handful of endowed memberships in place, but rather because I believe that there is still a LOT of work to be done, and as my Dad (a 2nd generation Mason) used to say, "You have to make hay while the sun shines." Plus -- let's face it -- if I weren't a Mason who would you guys get to send out these 5,823,531 emails each day! Carl Jones |
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Randell W. Martin It’s my duty to:
I became a mason at the age of 28; I am 33 now.
Randy Martin, CPA
Recruiting Manager, Finance & Accounting/FAO Affiliated Computer Services randell.martin@acs-inc.com |
| hi carl! my name is : wade
j. morse lodge is located in Denver, CO age now: 51¸ age to be a mater mason: 46 to answer why am i a mason? because the strength of two, or ten or one hundred minds is so much more powerful than my own...when we, as a people have common goal, to enlist those whom would be like-minded and to combine our resources, intellect and power, allows us to grow, to give and to further expand the possibilities us humans have...but not everyone is ready...we are the people whom prepare, whom bridge the gap...life is short, but there is enough time to have fun, to smile and express love of life, nature and the master of the heavens..peace bro!!!
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Why am I a Mason, NOW? There are several reasons: the members; the beliefs and the Brothers I don’t know. No where, no where else do I find the sense of oasis, short of home, I find in being at Lodge and being with brethren. As I’ve watched other groups and institutions, I see increasing levels of discrimination and censoring. Within Freemasonry I see inclusiveness for all men of a moral, spiritual and charitable nature. Have I seen tragedy within the fraternity? Yes. But, as a comparison to society as a whole, the percentage of “bad apples” within the Craft is miniscule. Also, the fraternity does hold its members accountable for their behavior. As I become an older member, the ability to work with young men who are looking to improve themselves, to become better family members, to become effective officers is very, very satisfying. I learn from them. They learn from the Craft. When I travel, if I will be in an area for more than one night, I usually try to find a local lodge. Other than the new area of Orlando, I have always found a lodge within three miles of the hotel. In every case, showing up unannounced has always been met with warm, fraternal love, even overseas. Where else can a man get all this? Current age: 55 Age when I signed the By-laws: 35 Thomas M. McClintock Orient Lodge, Norwood, Massachusetts
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From: Robert F. Schlegel, Jr.
(About - to be ) Immediate Past Master
Matinecock Lodge No.806, F.&.A.M., New
York (Bro. T. Roosevelt's Lodge)
Oyster Bay New York
I am now 63
Became a MM at 58
I continue to be a Mason, because:
*I associate with mostly great people (as
I do in Scouting - been doing that since I was 8)
* We make a positive contribution to the
community (Masonic charities, child ID, etc.)
* We learn from each other - it's probably
the greatest network for men around!
*We have fun , rituals, and fellowship
aplenty.
I could write a book but I have taken the
unofficial motto of the US Army War College ('86 graduate) to
heart: "Brevity does not imply superficiality". I sometimes
wish more of our Brethren adopted this as well!
S & F,
Bro. Bob |
| Richard A. Hodgson
Oxoboxo #116 Montville Ct. Sun City #72 Sun City AZ. I joined at 33 and I am now 81. I joined as
my family had been members but discovered I liked the ritual and
found that most members lived by it. I have been active all of this
time, in Connecticut as an officer, Master, Associate Grand Marshal,
District Deputy, and eight years as a Grand Lodge officer and
finally as Grand Master. Here in AZ. as Chaplain and Master. It is
well said in the ritual of the first degree, Masonry unites men of
every country sect and opinion and conciliates true friendship among
those who might otherwise have remained at a perpetual distance. So
have I found it to be, I now have numerous true Brothers to enjoy.
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Your Name - Lowry E. May
Your Lodge Name and Location - Corinthian Lodge
#27, Trail, BC: Canada (STATE the lodge is in.)
Kettle Falls Lodge #130, Kettle Falls, WA
Your age now - 70
Your age when you became a Master Mason - 36
I became a Mason because I was curious about the Masons.
I am a Mason today because I enjoy the fellowship with other
Masons and helping the lodge in ritual work. I am a retired
teacher but my Brothers are closer to me than the colleagues
I worked with for many years. I believe the world would be
a better place if Masonry was running things instead of
politicians.
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Why am I a Mason? Masonry is a
great fraternity! A hand full of Masons and many of their
friends and associates started this country. Masonry teaches
good morals but we don't offer salvation that is achieved only
through
faith in Jesus and free pardon of
sin.
Many attack us daily saying
that we are devil worshipers, I am a Christian!!! and many of
the members in our Lodge are also Christians some are Preachers.
The Lodge is not a Church I go to my Church to worship God,
Jehovah," I am"
you know the God of Abraham,
Isaac and Jacob!!! I go to Lodge to fellowship with my Masonic
Brethren and carry on the work of the Lodge.
Kenney M.
Hart
Past Master
Past District
Lecturer
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Why am I a Mason. Well I joined when I
turned 21 and was raised at the age of 22 in Cascade Lodge #34
in Great Falls Montana, and now have 52 years as a Mason, York
Rite Mason and Shriner. I joined because it really interested
me as a member of the DeMolay, which I was Master Councilor and
Chevalier and received the Legion of Honor later along with the
Advisor Cross of Honor. I was impressed as a college student of
the fact most all the leaders of the city, county and etc were
Masons. After college I was awarded a state job by the Governor
who was Mason, based on the recommendations of several members I
had met after joining. Then when I went to California with my
family, I was hired by a Mason who did his hiring through the
Masonic Employment Service, which I had been given information
on. When I moved back to Montana we ran into a little hard ship
and members of the Craft had my wife and me work at some of the
dinners serving and etc, then gave us left overs to take home.
I transferred my membership in Blue Lodge after getting my 25
year pin, to Rimrock #149 in Billings,
Montana. I got interested locally becoming the Chapter
Dad of DeMolay - 12 years, Associate Guardian of Jobs Daughters
and other council duties - 4 years, and on the Rainbow Advisory
Board - 6 years - serving as Chairman one year. I did not do
all these at one time. I went thought the offices of all three
York Rite Bodies. After DeMolay tenure (their meeting same as
Lodge night) I started in offices and have been Master of
Rimrock Lodge 4 times and served as Secretary for 10 years. I
was given a Live membership in another Lodge who wanted me to
become a dual member and be there Secretary. I then took over
as Secretary/Treasurer and later added Instructor. Three of
those years at the same time being Master of Rimrock. I served
for 11 years on the Spokane Shrine Hospital Board of Governors.
I am Grand Generalissimo and Grand Principal Sojourner and
Registrar of KYCH, and a member of the Red Cross of Constantine
and Allied Masonic Degrees. Now why am I a Mason, because of
the activity afforded me and my family to be known by others
because of it. I can say that about 90% of the communities in
Montana have members of the craft somewhere that I have met,
know and can call on for help. Like when I take the train I
leave my car with a Brother who lives in the town. I have
gotten help to change a flat tire at no expense from a Brother
in a small town I have gotten warnings on traffic violations
(speeding and other minor ones) from officers I know, or know
who I am from one group or another. I have been selected to
serve on non-Masonic boards because of someone know of my work.
Brotherhood is the bottom line and I wouldn't change any of it.
James C. Green
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I have been a Master Mason for 10
years & am now 53 years old
Yours Faithfully & Fraternally
Bro Eddie Lapsley
Assistant Secretary Lodge Doric
Kilwinning No 68
Companion Royal Arch No 407
Companion Cryptic Council No 407
Port Glasgow
Scotland
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| Because Masons are the people
I most like to be with.
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Dear Carl,
Why am I a Mason? A question I have always
asked myself, after becoming one.
I can honestly say that just before and
again after being a Mason, the faith, courage, commitment
and dedication to the craft, shown by a fellow mason, from a
different Lodge and country, whom I have met on two separate
occasions before being a Master Mason and again following me in
spirit through my degrees and constantly kept in touch with
Masons in the region, despite of having great personal health
problems for sometime now, has left me thinking,
what motivates him? That brother, I am referring to is VWBro BE
(Brian) Haffenden of The United Press Lodge 134 WAC and The WA
Lodge of Research 277 WAC.
It is the inspirational reason to me that
I am a Mason.
David Lee
Master Mason 2007
Lodge Lane Xang No. 1632
SC
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Bro David lai Kim Hean,
Lodge Kilwinning in the East No1606,
(located in Malaysia)
Grand Lodge of Scotland,
Present age : 67, as MM at 24 years old.
I have been a Mason for 42 uninterrupted
years and still try not to miss any Regular or Installation
Meeting. I have progressed in every office available to
me and have been a Founder Member for over 10 new Lodges in
South East Asia, Honorary Member to more than one dozen Lodges
of the three Premier Constitutions (English, Irish and
Scottish) and has interest in Chapters, Conclave as well as 32nd
Degree Scottish Rite. At one time and even now I consider
myself a full time Mason and a part time Employee. Now why do I
remain active for so long especially when it cost me quite a
considerable sum of money to maintain my Masonic duties?
I strongly believe Masonry is a
fascinating and enjoyable journey and not a destination. For so
long as I am able to continue on this wonderful journey I don't
think I will ever want to change my life style. I enjoyed
attending Lodge meetings and functions to meet with Brethren who
share common and mutually beneficial interests. Learning or
assisting each other or pooling resources to provide benevolent
assistance to those less fortunate. More important is the
enjoyment in the fellowship that we always meet on the level
and part on the square. I have yet to come across any other
non-religious Global institutions that have existed for so many
Centuries providing opportunities for good men to become better
men and communicating happiness. I would be insane not to
continue enjoying my Masonry.
Bro. David Lai
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My age now is 62 my age when I became a mason was 26.
I remain a mason because i feel it is a worth will
organization and
i feel that being a mason makes me a better husband, dad, and
grandfather, as well as
A better Christian. I also feel my response to my community,
and my church is much better know
Than before I was a mason. Being a mason helps me keep my
priority in the right order because
Of what I have learned during being a mason. I belong to
several lodges one in
Ennis
#369 and one called
Chamber
Creek #469.
I am also a member of Scottish Rite. and the York.
I plan on joining Shrine as soon as possible..
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| My Reasons for remaining a
Freemason and wanting to progress are simple: |
| Bob Parr |
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I became a Mason because a friend, and later a brother, saw something in me that would benefit Masonry. Becoming a Mason helped to help others. I am a Mason because of the people in not only my lodge, but also the lodges in the Mobile area and beyond. I am still a Mason because I am able to help others, and they in turn help me. I enjoy the fellowship and brotherhood Masonry encompasses.
Armand Pizani
Senior Deacon
McCormick-Mobile #40
Mobile, Al.
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Marion P. George, Jr. (Pat) PM
Dolcito 596 in
Tarrant, AL.35217
Age 66
Became a Master Mason in 1973
Excellent opportunity to speak my
piece. I have found Masonry, OUTSIDE OF THE LODGE, to be an
intellectually stimulating trip. Those truly hard-to-find,
sincere Masons illuminate man's understanding of the
relationship wherein we stand to our Creator. 99+% of Masons
are shining examples of Pike's and Wilmshurst's opinion.
CLUELESS! Literally, they have found "The cheapest way to
escape the wife's mouth", and/or "A free meal", and/or "an
illusion of significance" wherein they can act out a role and
feel important. Moreover, they can, by virtue of "Default
Management" eventually rise to a position of being able to tell
others to "shut up, 'cause I've got the HAT". And, in that
position, they have their moment's) of power, immune from
"dethroning" save from those few moral pitfalls that might
remove them. These are men who confuse a tape-recorder with a
computer. In THEIR world, a really good parrot could eventually
be their GRAND MASTER. Enough said of those who cheapen and
degrade our Fraternity.
Masonry is SYMBOLIC. It ain't
HISTORY. As soon as one gets THAT clear understanding, one
begins to SEEK LIGHT. Personally, as a SERIOUS YORK RITE MASON,
it enables me to comply with James' injunction to "Be ye doers
of the word and not hearers, only". As a Christian, I do not
associate myself with appendant bodies that align themselves
with other gods and blasphemers. Been there, did the research,
and dissociated myself. But, that STILL leaves a VAST storehouse
of knowledge that leads to UNDERSTANDING. Perhaps, an example
would help.
Dr. Rick Losch's (copyrighted) "Star
of Bethlehem" is a most excellent explanation of the events that
are mentioned in the Bible, but totally distorted with fantasy
and outright mercenary lies by merchants and false preachers.
The Astrological explanation of the Astronomical events that
occurred on the evening of 17 April 6BC and the morning of 18
April 6BC are a solid and complete whole. Computers that can
"turn back time" (Astronomically) have explained it ALL. This
Power-Point presentation is the work of a dedicated Mason.
Further, it only scratches the surface of his research into
other, relative, Masonic associations. I'll not bother you with
a "laundry-list" of Masonic intellectuals, (thus avoiding
offending some Brother by forgetting him.) There are MANY.
They search the philosophy, history and interrelationship of
events to explain the staggering simplicity of WHY WE ARE HERE
and WHAT WE ARE TO DO. As you now know, I am a serious
Christian, so I will not press that further.
In Masonry, PARTICULARLY York Rite
Masonry, I find harmony and peace. There seems to be a lack of
the "corporate ladder-climbing ambition and un-Masonic conduct
that leads to success" which embarrasses us, elsewhere. Yes,
I'm happy. Not that there are not those who are otherwise, but
the mercenary are few, and with little to gain, go elsewhere.
Good.
It IS interesting to note that
INFLATION may, by its very nature, solve so many problems.
Those niggardly misers who howl and bemoan the idea of dues
costing a dime a day will soon be faced with the AWFUL reality
that, to continue to exist, DUES MUST GO UP. Why, you ask?
Simple, the indolent majority WILL NOT WORK to raise money.
They are free-loaders. The new, higher, cost of transportation
will preclude them from even attending Lodge.
Free meals will be too much for the
budget. The vote WILL occur. Survival requires it. And yes, I
guess the roadsides will be littered with the bones of indigent
Masons who cannot afford the Fraternity. A sober look at the
cost of Masonry on a man's budget, more than 50 years ago,
versus today, will tell you QUICKLY that "making it cheaper
doesn't make it better". Witness Masonic buildings, being
built. Not only the fact that they are cheaply built, but that
the KITCHEN and DINING HALL are the MAIN considerations. (And
there probably ain't a library in any of 'em, anywhere.) 'Nuff
said.
None of the above criticisms affect my
firm belief that Masonry is the greatest fraternity in the
world. The preceding paragraph should "thin us out". THAT will
solve the problem, democratically, which, incidentally, is why
we are in the financial shape we are in. BEGGARS SHOULD NOT BE
CHOOSERS. (There's a Dr. in Scotland whose study of the
collapse of democratic governments clearly explains that when
the poor can vote themselves an income, the system fails. The
body can only tolerate so many ticks, leeches and fleas until
its life-blood is gone.) Should we live by the teachings that
our ritual alludes to, this would be a much happier world. I AM
trying.
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Carl asked why each of us IS a Mason? Of course the answer is not why, but that each of us IS a Mason, we became Masons for a reason and cannot stop being a Mason once we know we have reached that goal. He doesn’t want to know WHY we became Masons, as everyone has that story: family heritage, or wonder of the society, or a step to the Shrine and helping in a big way. So, the answer can only serve to reinvest our stance in the society, and will only be read by those still on fire. I am a Mason. I speak with others about Masonry when asked. I attend lodge meetings and am utilized to explain what was done in the past or what rules exist that haven’t been read or executed lately. It keeps the lodge on an even keel, knowing the members are learning from others’ experience and doing what is right. And maybe it feels a little like someone in control to be able to give guidance to brothers. But the real reason to be there is not to vote on paying the bills or sending a card to one in distress or sickness. The real reason lies in the member not yet made. Men still wonder and want to become Masons. Someone must make them and teach them and show them. And through the new Mason comes a feeling that the world has a chance at being right and honest and fair. If no one brought new men to Masonry, new men would only strive and guess at being right and our lives might be drastically different if each had his own definition of how the world should act. So someone who knows how to teach and give the lessons needs to be there ready to teach and ready to be there, and the best way to be ready is to be ready and the best way to make sure you are ready is to be the one who is there; those there will be asked and those there better be ready. Too often an opportunity arises to perform ritual in lodge and someone long away says, “I haven’t done that in years…..better find someone prepared.” And the statement says it all. It says that job IS not worth the stress and work. It says that job IS not worth reconstituting because someone might ask it be performed again and again. It says the MAN who wishes to know is not worth the effort to make his knowledge right. It says Masonry made me enough and everyone else can find his own way…..alone……and good luck. I think back on my first three degrees. There seemed a plethora of men who knew more than I did. There seemed a large group the society called upon to teach me. There seemed an immense number of gentlemen who were interested enough that what each of them had to say was vitally important to them that I hear it. I was surrounded by many, many learned brothers who wanted me to KNOW. I wanted to be a part. They were all ready to teach, and I wanted to be ready, too. That’s why I am a Mason, an active Mason. I think the man with wonder and wish has a chance to make our society and our world great. But he can’t do it unless he is taught, unless someone sees enough worth in him to be ready even though they have never met. A new candidate has no idea what preparations take place for a degree. A new candidate marvels at the movements and ideas presented him in degrees, and sees not mistakes nor wishes to remember them. A new man is impressed by all in attendance, and the friendship of new brothers, and the respect for one another. A new candidate revels in the fact that others have given their time to guide him and make him better. All it takes is bodies….. and I am one body. I have attended when there weren’t bodies. I have attended when we realized that of all the men listed in the rolls, not enough found it important to keep the meetings alive. I have had discussions with members who explained that they would certainly attend if something important was to happen; and their assumptions are 90% correct. So, why not stay away? The business of the lodge goes on without them. I now am a Mason so I can attend; maybe not always, but more regularly than most. I am a Mason so I can be counted and be added to that number of members when visitors arrive that they not outnumber the locals. I am a Mason because for once each two weeks I can show physically that I care, and am ready, and am willing. And I see a difference in the world. I make new friends and see them on the street. I know that it’s a better place, just because I continue to be a Mason. I hope the fire never burns out, but should it I would hope another would take my place. It only takes one Mason to improve the world, if that man would be a true Mason. Geo. D. Cowan Kalispell #42 Kalispell, MT
Initiated in 90(?)
Kalispell Lodge #42
Kalispell, MT
Meets 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 7 P.M.
Corner of Main and 3rd
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Good morning Brother Carl I am a member and Past Master of Ellwood Lodge #599 located in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania 40 miles North of Pittsburgh, PA. I am currently 62 years old and have been a Mason (SR, YR & Shriner) for 35 years now. I carry on a family tradition with my Great Great Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Father and several Uncles of my family being members of the same lodge. I have thought for years that being a Mason and Shiner is one of the best kept secrets so to speak. Fraternally, Dale A. Brown PM, Syria Temple, Pittsburgh, PA
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| David
Sims
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| Brother Carl,
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Brother Jones, this may be a little long as I know you are a busy man but I’ll try to keep it short if I can and still tell the story. I had no known relatives at that time I joined who were masons. I later found out I did. As a student in High School I had a Civics teacher who was a Mason. We found out quickly that if we got him to talking Masonry it cut the class short by about 10 minutes. My interest was piqued. As an adult working man in 1958 I was among a group of fellow employees who were almost all masons. As a Master Mason I was intrigued with all aspects of masonry. I began to study the esoteric work, the history of masonry, the rules of masonry, I began to teach and confer degrees and give the lectures. I became a Past Master and served as a District Deputy Grand Master. I served for 6 years on the Grand Lodge Permanent Committee on Grievances and Appeals. Sure I loved church, hunting and other activities but Masonry became my main hobby and a continuing part of my life. Why did I join? I admired those I knew who were masons and I wanted to be part of their group. Why am I still a mason? I really don’t know except if masonry is as I said, a part of my life, how can I leave it short of death? This may be too long but it’s my story.
Dean Alexander, Secretary / Past Master Irving Lodge 1218 (Texas)
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| I am currently 55
years of age, soon to hit 56 later in the summer. My Blue Lodge is
St. John's #333 AFM in Spartanburg, SC
where I have sat the Chairs. I have also served as Master of the
Civil War Lodge of Research, 1865 AF&AM, GLofVA. I currently serve
a one year term as the President of the South Carolina Masonic
Research Society. I was IPR in 1997 so my Masonic journey is one
of not quite 11 years.
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| The reasons that I
became a Mason are short and few, My Dad was a Mason, My Grand dad
was a Mason, and my boss was a Mason. |
| Greetings Brother
Carl, ro:. Geoffrey Howard,
32* (Bro:. JK) P:.M:. - King Solomon Lodge 62 F&AM PHA District Nine - M:.W:.Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Washington Hanau, Germany
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Bro. Carl
in response to the question "why am I
still at Mason"
Having been a member of the fraternity for
going on 37 years I am proud to say my enthusiasm for the
precepts of Masonry are as strong as ever. Just seeing a young
man enter the lodge and the improvements it brings to his life
is pay day for me. I come from a long line of Masonic family
membership, my dad was a member for over 64 years. When i think
of the sacrifices he made years ago just to attend the lodge (5
miles on horseback) it makes me feel good when i attend just
knowing once inside the lodge my dad and I have had the same
experience. And when my time comes to an end I will proudly
bear the badge of a Mason.
So Mote It be
Gary Pierce, PM
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W. Bro. Carl,
First,
the biographical info you asked for:
I am
(outgoing) Worshipful Master of Frontier Lodge #28 of
West Columbia, Texas (about an hour
south of Houston). I petitioned for the mysteries on my 21st
birthday. My father, PM and secretary of my mother Lodge
(Laneville Lodge #795) read my petition at the next stated
meeting, and I was raised just under six months later with my
degrees being conferred every 28 days (yes, I learned
every bit of the memory work
required). I was raised on September 10, 1970 and reported for
active duty (U.S. Army) on September 17. I was five days shy of
21 years and six months old when I became the widow's son. I am
now 59 years old. I am a fourth-generation Texas Mason.
Though
you did not ask it, I AM a Mason for one primary reason: my
father was the truest example of the teachings of Masonry (and
of Jesus, the Christ) I have ever known. He was a truly
honorable, deeply caring man (my mother was similarly
disposed) that I have tried to emulate these several years. Long
after his death I found yet another example of his true
understanding of the lesson taught in the NE corner of the Lodge
during his initiation; that of a family in destitute
circumstances to which he alone provided succor for quite some
time. Was it his Masonic teaching that caused him to respond to
those needs, or was it his Christian upbringing? I do not know,
and cannot now ask him, as he has long since passed into that
country from which no traveler returns. I suspect it was a
combination of the two, but I do know that one of his biological
brothers, raised by the same father and mother, but who was NOT
a Mason, saw the same needs and did not respond to them.
Why am I
STILL a Mason? I could easily begin writing today and not stop
until a year from now and still not come close to fully
answering that question. Still, several of the more important
reasons come immediately to mind.
First, I
feel the same need to give back to the Fraternity that my father
felt. I admit that I was very absent from my Masonic lodge
for over a decade. I was helping my wife rear our three sons,
living four hours distant from my home lodge, and Masonry took
the hit. I retained my membership in my mother lodge, but the
passage of time and dwindling membership and attendance took its
toll and Laneville 795 consolidated with a nearby lodge (Mt.
Enterprise #1379) in 1994, 4 years short of its Centennial.
Time passed, and years later, I took a contract job in Alvin,
TX. Because I had time on my hands (I took an apartment near
there, about 2 hours from my home) I began attending lodge in
the area and felt the strong pull of the brotherhood I had once
felt.
I became
active enough to work with degree teams in several lodges and in
December 2004 got a report from Grand Lodge that Texas had lost
another 3,000 members. Then and there a plan came to mind that
I felt might be able to slow or reverse that trend. After
talking to several others, we agreed that the reason for the
decline was not mainly a lack of suitable candidates, but rather
that these potential candidates had no real understanding of who
or what we are. That what Masonry has given this nation and
this state has somehow failed to make its mark in the minds of
those we really need to keep the Fraternity strong. Nobody to
speak of knows how large a part Masonry played in making this
State and Nation what we are.
My family
(wife and three sons) has participated in living history events
for three decades, and there are many Masons who are living
historians. Several of us petitioned the Grand Lodge of Texas
for dispensation to hold educational demonstrations of 19th
Century Masonic Funeral services for the general public.
Dispensation was granted, and the first of these demonstrations
was held the following March at a Texas living history
celebration. The public was enthralled, and many Masons thanked
us for bringing Masonry into the open. And for the first time
in 30 years of reenacting, we were actively presenting
Masonry, its benefits and contributions to society to a
receptive, non-Masonic audience. We then sought to have the
charter of a long-dark lodge restored. That was granted, and
Frontier Lodge #28 was again brought to life. Frontier has
continued its Masonic awareness efforts before the general
public. While I cannot say for certain just how many have
petitioned the Fraternity because of what Frontier has done, I
do know that at least six Masons were made who specifically
attribute their interest to Frontier's efforts.
So why am
I still a Mason? Many reasons. Friendship, association with
men of good character, encouragement, camaraderie, a sense of
duty to mankind. A constant reminder that men of all faiths,
colors, and creeds can meet in peace and harmony, and that honor
and dignity do not belong to one sect or part of society. To be
a member of a very large and close-knit family of men who, while
imperfect, strive daily to be better than they would otherwise
be. Because those tenets that we learn within the walls of a
Lodge patterned after a long-demised Jewish temple are still
worthy of emulation in this modern, computer-assisted age. That
an organization that is religious in nature does not have to
prescribe a particular religion. Because Masonry makes me want
to be a better man.
I am
STILL a Mason because Masonry needs me as much as I need it.
Sam J.
Whitley, PM
Frontier
Lodge #28
West
Columbia, Texas
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Brother Carl:
I spent 30 years in the Navy and my
terminal posting was to the West Coast. My career had been on
the East Coast and I knew very few people on this coast. A
friend of mine who I knew in the East, had moved here, was a
Mason, and suggested I become a Mason. Since that time, going
through my blue lodge, passing through Scottish Rite and joining
the Shrine, I have met some wonderful caring people who have
become dear friends and help me to contribute my time and some
money back to the community through Masonic and Shriners
charities. If it wasn't for this easy fellowship this provides,
life's path since retirement might have been a great deal harder
and certainly more confusing. Now I am also Secretary of the
Victoria Shrine Club, belong to a Shrine Unit and enjoying life
to the fullest and my spouse supports my efforts.
Yours in the Sunshine of the Faith
James A. McNaughton
Secretary for Victoria Shrine Club vicshrine@pacificcoast.net
Henderson #84, Victoria, BC Canada
Your age now 62
Your age when you became a Master Mason 52
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Brother Carl:
Name-Richard J. Williams
Seminole Lodge No. 83
Donalsonville, Ga.
My age now is 55 years old
Joined the Lodge when I was 21 years old
Enjoy your Emails very much!!!!!!!!
Fellowship I receive in Lodge and Great times with the Brothers. Can go any where in the U.S.A. and meet a brother . I have been to Five states and been greeted by Brothers in Each State.. |
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William H. Wilson, Past Master Highland Hills Lodge #1373, Dual Member Floresville Lodge #515, I am 58 years old, I was Raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason on February 15th 1996. I am still a Mason because my fellowship with my Lodge and Brothers give me an anchor, a focal point for the structure in my life. I still believe that Masonry can take a good Man and make him better… if he will let it. Every time I stop in at my Lodge I see evidence of that. Every time I have occasion to meet with and converse with Brother Masons it reinforces that. I advertise the fact that I am a Mason. And because I advertise that fact … I have to examine everything that I do in light of that. I have Masonic decals on my cars and motorcycle … so I am scrupulous in my regard for traffic rules and regulations and try to be courteous on the road. I wear my Masonic emblems in public … so I have to be conscious of the image that I may present to non-Masons and Brothers that I may not know to be Masons … so that I do not inadvertently bring disrepute on our Fraternity. I am still a Mason because I believe that Masonry embodies the best of Ideals of Free, God loving society and that we have an obligation to our Brothers and Society as a whole to witness and encourage every man to be the best that he can be and to pull himself and his friends and neighbors up above the muck and mire so that we can live in a manner that allows and encourages us to contemplate a better way of life where everyone is free to live in peace and harmony. Sorry for stepping up on the soap box … Thank you for the Work that you do Brother Carl Fraternally
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New posts from July 12, 2008 are below this line. |
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WHY
ARE YOU A MASON ?
Why am i a mason ?
The question that you pose,
It's for the kindred fellowship.
That every brother knows.
You ask why I'm a mason,
It gives my life direction.
It chisels of my rougher parts,
In the pursuit of perfection.
You ask why I'm a mason
To leave my feelings bare,
I love to learn the secrets of,
The compass and the square.
You ask why I'm a mason,
It gives me some respite,
From old iron britches, in the house.
And her nagging every night.
The reason I'm a mason.
It's so simple, you'll be amazed.
I'm always met with warmth and joy
In the place where I was raised.
Bro.
Charles Maxwell
w.j.w
L.D.K No 68
Port
Glasgow,
Scotland.
39 now
35 then
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Carl,
I am still a Mason because I took a oath to
God and my fellow Masons to conduct my life I certain ways.
Taking my oaths in the blue lodge and in other Masonic
organization was a spiritual experience to me. It is not every
day I swear to God.
I stay a Mason to at least know that a
greater percentage of the people that I meet in Masonry will be
a good person. I do know that for may the taking of their oaths
was just to go through the motions and it was allowed because
some are afraid that some of the lodges will go away because of
the lack of members. I say that if the number of lodges needs to
fall then so be it.
I am a member in Texas even though I live in
New Mexico. I went to the local lodge a few times and did not
like what I saw. I have not been to lodge for years. I am going
to give them a try again. I hope they will be willing to take
their obligations more seriously and I will start visiting their
lodge more often.
Roy Lemons
Lodge 938
Living in Belen NM
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| Hi Carl,
I am the Secretary/Treasurer of Exemplar
Lodge No. 175 (Grand Lodge of Alberta) in Edmonton, Alberta,
Canada. I am 65 years of age and joined Freemasonry when I was
50.
My first interest in Masonry occurred when my
wife got an interest in Eastern Star but had to have a Masonic
connection which she didn't have. I met a long time friend who
was a Mason and started my inquiries about the Craft. I was
pleased to find that The Golden Rule is a principal of
Freemasonry as I had always practiced same through my life but
in business found of course, that many (or most) believe that
"He who has the Gold makes the Rules!". I took a couple of years
making my decision with the limited information I got but
finally did so. My sponsors, who were both long time friends,
also sent in my Petition to Scottish Rite where I went a year
after becoming a Master Mason and I went on a couple of years
later to the Shrine.
I have served as Secretary/Treasurer of my
Lodge since 1994 and was presented with a 10 Year Jewel in 2005
by my beloved Brethren... I call it The National Treasure and
wear it proudly whenever I can. I only spent a year before being
elected to my present office and hence am happily Brother only
and will no doubt remain as such.
Oh, my lovely wife passed on Eastern Star as
she didn't seem to be interested in being "Mrs. Mason" but is
happily and proudly a member of the Daughters of the Nile in
Shrine.
I have announced my retirement as Secretary/
Treasurer of my Lodge effective this year and am presently
working with one candidate for that post... I hope to leave it
in good order for my successor.
My Masonic career is a long way from over and
I am very thankful for having the opportunity.
Fraternally,
Francis
Bro. Francis Dryden Secretary/Treasurer Exemplar Lodge No. 175 Phone: (780)455-5131 E-mail: anafran@shaw.ca Web Site: http://www.Exemplar.ca Web Site alias: http://ExemplarLodge.ca |
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Bro. Carl: Becoming a Mason in 1982, at the tender age of 54, I soon found myself in the South at Acacia Lodge #85 of Greenwich, CT. Having done due diligence, and finding nothing to forbid it, on the last night of Junior Warden's work, I had the temerity to stand and sing, repeat sing, the JW's speech of record. The looks of astonishment around the Lodge made the effort most efficacious. As a musician by trade, it seemed the most natural of efforts. I went forward to SW, didn't sing, then on to two years as WM, still without singing. I do believe that the cooperation I received as WM was due to the concern of the sidelines that I'd break into song if they didn't comply. Ah, Power! It's best when enjoyed.
Yes, I'm still a Mason and I became such
because one of the finest individuals I ever knew followed
through on my initial interest. He remained a mentor until his
passing at 97. Why is it the really good always die so young?
Keep up the good work. Your interests from
around the world are inspiring. I agree with you and Bro, Justin
for, paraphrasing the scripture, "A little levity leveleth the
whole". Laughter, serious laughter, is sadly missed in our
society. John Zavitz, PM
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Carl
I joined lodge when I was 21, and in less than two weeks I will
be 63. I feel that Masonry has made me a better man, and I have
met many fine men and their families through my many journeys in
Masonry. I feel that the moral fiber of our fraternity is more
in line with my thinking than those who don't belong. Without
the fraternity and church, I don't know what I would be doing.
I joined Alhambra Lodge #322 in Alhambra, California, served as
Master in 1979, and am still a member of Alhambra #322,
Alhambra, California.
Fraternally,
Bob
Robert C. Coe, KCT
Right Eminent Department Commander Southwestern Department Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America
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I am a mason because I like what it stands for. I know that all of our members do not live up to the standard that it projects, but we can try. I am the secretary of Hatton Lodge 879 in Lawrence County Al, and we do a lot of charity work. We just had a golf tournament and raised over $24000.00 for St. Jude Hospital. This work was carried out by 4 small rural Lodges.
Flavious Randolph
Secy Hatton Lodge 879 Hatton Al
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