...THE FURTHER WE CAN GO

Masonry thrives on the notion that we each begin modest and humble. Easier for us to speak about it than to walk the walk. Jon Kabot-Zinn captured it for us: "What is more, any superficial or romantic notions we might harbour of becoming a better person-more calm or more clear or more compassionate-don't endure for long when we face the turbulence of our lives."  In the masonic zeitgeist, the contemplative mind poises endless questions of us. Masonry expands on this and invites us into the process of exploring truths and facts and fancy.  To absorb core-beliefs we are asked us to step beyond accumulated knowledge. We like to use the metaphor of light into darkness; understanding replacing ignorance. Core beliefs have much to do with how we believe ourselves to be. I find some solace provided by Aristotle:  ”We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence is not an act, but a habit.”   I'm not sure what excellence is but it sounds good. And I know what a habit is.  I think an excellent person would be insufferable unless excellence included keeping ego at bay. What would motivate us?  Imagine how far we could go, the heights we could reach if ego was not let into any Lodge. No competitiveness. Harmony.   This asks a great deal of us.  How do we keep these noble goals in focus during the turbulent day? Only when we understand the power of the symbols we wear or pocket, do they speak gently and to us and refocus.  None of this is enforceable. So we need to think about those nearby who haven't had the mentoring he deserved or has been faithful but lowered expectations.  How then do we bring the Lodge together?  Knowledge, understanding, and imagination. Some have experimented with shortcuts. But they transparently lack authenticity and sincerity.  Imagine your effect.