… presented at Lynden Lodge No. 505, October 8th 2003

A Look on the Positive Side

Brethren-all too often in our fast paced, hectic world, we find ourselves concentrating on the negative aspects of society. Governmental issues, crime, wars and a general lack or morality and compassion for fellow man a times dominate our talk. But as you know, there is always the proverbial other side of the coin, meaning there is also a great deal of good in the world, and so it is with Masonry. We often lament the fact that a large percentage of our members do not attend lodge meetings, or if the do, only occasionally. For a great many of us, this is a disturbing trend and reason for great concern. However, as with most things that at first glance appear negative, looking at this issue from a different perspective may change our outlook. The fact is, a recent study of our membership shows the majority of brethren derive their greatest satisfaction by simply being a Mason. Most members do not feel the need to attend lodge on a regular basis or be active in its leadership to reap its benefits. Again it may be disturbing that so many of our members feel as they do, but I ask you-is not the real purpose of Masonry to challenge men to become better morally and spiritually? By the time a man has passed through the three degrees, the lessons he has learned and his vision for what his life can and should be, are clear. It is when he carries these lessons beyond the walls of our lodge and into everyday life that Masonry derives its greatest benefit. Just as a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, so a society’s strength depends on the way its ordinary people behave of their own accord. It is in society that Masonry can and does make a real difference. The mark of a man will not be how many meetings he attended, or what offices in the lodge he held, or how much gold adorned his apron. Ultimately, it is what’s inside a man and how he lives his life that is important, and that goal is Freemasonry, and the cornerstone of our society.

This is not to say that our meetings do not need to be as interesting and meaningful as we can make them. Nor should we overlook the importance of impressing upon the brethren the need to assume leadership roles in our lodges. But perhaps it is time, not to despair over the number of brethren who do not attend our meetings, but to take solace in the fact that everyday our members are sending the powerful and all important message that Freemasonry speaks, simply in the manner they live their lives.

Thank you brethren.

Source - the Newsletter of the Committee on Masonic Education-Vol. 9 No.4. Article by Francis Paul