…presented at King Solomon Lodge No. 329, Jarvis, November 18, 2008.

Brethren friendship is a great thing to have isn't it?

Freemasonry has many facets which have attracted men of good will of every race, religion, political view, and social position into its ranks throughout the world for many years. Every member has his own individual reason for joining the Craft, but generally its chief appeal is the charitable work it does, the philosophy of life taught by the Craft with its visible display by Freemasons in their exemplary conduct in the everyday world. All these items are important, but to the nonmember who has given this matter any thought whatsoever it soon becomes apparent that the greatest asset in Freemasonry is the spirit of friendship that exists between Freemasons in their relationship with one another and their attitude of thoughtfulness for the welfare of others. For example, I think for many years the words "Mason" and "friendship" were often used synonymously. There are many definitions of the word "friend." It means one who is in a warm personal relationship with another person. It means a person who is ready to assist you in your plans. Many years ago an English periodical had a contest and offered a prize to the person submitting the best definition of the word "friend." Here are a few of the definition which were sent to the publication: "One, who multiplies joys, divides grief, and whose honesty is unchallengeable." "A watch which beats true for all time and never runs down."And the definition that won first prize: "A friend is the one who comes in when the whole world has gone out."

The most valuable thing anyone can have is to have a friend. And in order to have a friend, you must be a friend. Freemasonry with its emphasis on the obligations we owe to others exemplifies this idea of the value of friendship in the strongest way possible.

For one who travels extensively, Masonic friendship manifests itself time and time again. Whether it is visiting a Masonic lodge or attending a meeting of an appendant body, when you meet another Mason you always feel a kinship with him. You always find the door open with a welcome sign. It's impossible to place a price-tag on FRIENDSHIP. It's something all of us need-but cannot buy. Tonight in this room alone you will see members from all over the district and possibly from outside the district as well, and why are they here, that because over the years we have created a fraternal bond which no one can take away. From the teachings that remind us that we are here to support one another in every thing that we do. The other night in Cayuga the members preformed an initiation and this persons uncle came down from Barrie , did he come because he was family? Probably! But I think he came to also support him in the first step of his Masonic journey. Brethren in closing I'm proud to be part of this organization and proud to have the number of friends in this room tonight, be proud as well as we work together to strengthen our bonds among each other and we'll show the world that our friendship will make us brothers forever.