THE CASE FOR STRONG RITUAL: THEATRE MATTERS

The etiquette of masonry would seem obvious to a casual onlooker.  Underlying that, is what I think we can call symbolic manners.  14th century notes reveal proceedings of a Scottish lodge. From a nation in which a King was an authority declared over the land, not people, in England a King or Queen was about subjects and land. It makes me think that the early Scottish Lodges operating where 13th, 14th century legends William Wallace and Robert The Bruce represented the primacy of a man, so the independence of a lodge would never be in doubt. It is disengenuous to question the merit of Grand Lodge institutions.  Freemasonry is not troubled, but confusion is out there where answers are being sought about 21st Century relevance and performance of the Order.  What has this to do with independent or constitutional legitimacy is everything.  Few of us who would think to serve warm beer to a guest are tolerant of insensitivity in a lodge.  In mason-speak, the most thoughtful gesture of sincerity is good ritual. Poor work reveals too much. We can be part of a great organization, but membership does not change our nature. So what bearing does this have in the broader role of freemasonry?  Everything.  Our rationalilzation does not matter a fig to a curious, high performing man. This is where each one of us can change the narrative. However you say it, any less than fine work cannot be accepted.  Not everyone is capable. It takes ability. Ignoring this has consequences.  Many lodges are experiencing those consequences first hand. This is why our ritual is carefully worked to ensure a continuous current. It takes effort and commitment by all of us, all the time.  When we are succesful, we present masonry, our lodges, our membership and our sensitivity to a guest in the best possible light.  This is where we reignite and inspire. Then or now? Which local custom tofollow?