If someone were to ask you to define “Freemasonry”, what would your response be? Many ponder their choice of words and being fearful of saying something that would be viewed as giving away some secret – they usually say nothing. Let’s arm ourselves with some knowledge and understand what we as masons should be telling those that do not understand us or our teachings.
A good definition by a District Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Arizona, says that: “Freemasonry is a body of transcendental teachings, conveyed through symbolism, promoting a fraternal, exemplary and moral way of life; which, voluntarily observed by initiated men, contributes to their spiritual fulfillment and, through them, to the Betterment of Humanity.”
If we are to withstand the attacks of anti-masonic forces, we must practice what we are taught. As we all know, actions always speak louder than words. All masons are warned not to get into arguments with those who, through ignorance, would ridicule the Fraternity; however, we can win by the testimony we live in our everyday lives. Brother Thomas Webb (back in the early 1800’s) put forth some ideas that demonstrated the importance of the secrets of Masonry.
If the secrets of Masonry are replete with such advantages to mankind, it may be asked: why are they not divulged for the general good of society? To which it may be answered: were the privileges of Masonry to be indiscriminately bestowed, the design of the institution would be subverted, and being familiar to everybody, like many other important matters, would soon lose their value, and sink into disregard.
It is a weakness in human nature, that men are generally more charmed with novelty, than the real worth or intrinsic value of things. Novelty influences all our actions and determinations, what is new or difficult in the acquisition; however, trifling or insignificant, readily captivates the imagination, and ensures a temporary admiration; while what is familiar, or easily obtained, however noble and eminent for its utility, is sure to be disregarded by the giddy and unthinking.
Did the particular secrets of peculiar forms prevalent among Masons constitute the essence of the art, it might be alleged that our amusements were trifling; and our ceremonies superficial. But this is not the case. Having their use, they are preserved, and from the recollection of the lessons they inculcate, the well informed Mason derives instruction. Drawing them to a near inspection, he views them through a proper medium; adverts to the circumstances which gave them rise; dwells upon the tenets that convey; and finding them replete with useful information, adopts them as keys to the privileges of his art, and prizes them as sacred. Thus convinced of their propriety, he estimates the value from their utility.
Many people are deluded by their vague supposition that our mysteries are merely nominal; that the practices established among us are frivolous; and that our ceremonies might be adopted, or waved, at pleasure. On this false foundation, we have found them hurrying through all the degrees, without adverting to the propriety of one step they purse, or possessing one single qualification requisite for advancement. Passing through the usual formalities, they have accepted offices and assumed the government of lodges, equally unacquainted with the rules of the institution they pretended to support, or the nature of the trust reposed in them. The consequence is obvious; wherever such practices have been allowed, anarchy and confusion have ensued, and the substance has been lost in the shadow.
Were the brethren, who preside over lodges, properly instructed previous to their appointment, and regularly apprised of the importance of their respective offices, a general reformation would speedily take place. This would evince the propriety of our mode of government, and lead men to acknowledge, that our honors were deservedly conferred. The ancient consequence of the order would be restored, and the reputation of the Society preserved.
Such conduct alone can support our character. Unless prudent actions shall distinguish our title to the honors of Masonry, and regular deportment display the influence and utility of our rules, the world in general will not easily be led to reconcile our proceedings with the tenets of our profession.
Masonry is an art equally useful and extensive. In every art there is a mystery which requires a gradual progression of knowledge to arrive at any degree of perfection in it. Without much instruction, and more exercise, no man can be skillful in any art; in like manner, without an assiduous application to the various subjects treated of in the different lectures of Masonry, no person can be sufficiently acquainted with its true value.
It must not, however, be inferred from this remark that persons, who labor under the disadvantages of a confined education or whole sphere of life, require a more intense application to business of study and are to be discouraged in their endeavors to gain a knowledge of Masonry.
To qualify an individual to enjoy the benefits of the society at large, or to partake of its privileges, it is not absolutely necessary that he should be acquainted with all the intricate parts of the science. These are only intended for the diligent and assiduous Mason, who may have leisure and opportunity to indulge such pursuits. Though some are more able than others, more eminent, some more useful, yet all, in their different spheres, may prove advantageous to the community.
Understanding these guidelines, Masons should live by a set of enduring Core Values forming the bedrock of our Nation’s character. Core Values that give them strength and courage so that they can meet any challenge. (Which all Marines will recognize and know)
Honor guides us to exemplify the ultimate in ethical and moral behavior; to never lie, cheat or steal; to abide by an uncompromising code of integrity; respect human dignity and respect others. The qualities of maturity, dedication, trust and dependability commits us to act responsibly; to be accountable for our actions; to fulfill our obligations; and to hold others accountable for their actions.
Courage is the mental, moral and physical strength ingrained in us. It carries us through the challenges of life and helps to overcome fear. It is the inner strength that enables an individual to do what is right; to adhere to a higher standard of personal conduct; and to make tough decisions under stress and pressure.
Commitment is the spirit of determination and dedication found in those committed to the Fraternity. It leads to the highest order of discipline for individuals and is the ingredient that enables a dedication to God and country. It inspires the unrelenting determination to achieve a standard of excellence in every endeavor.
Put the anti-masonic naysayers to shame. Be Always Faithful: to God, our Country, our Wounded Warriors – Be a Builder – Failure is not an Option. Semper Fi.
Fraternally,
Kenneth Dyer
Grand Master
