I FIRST CAME TO THE DOOR ALONE

Freemasonry occupies a unique place in the spectrum of human experience. Many experience this as entering a new place with high expectations and obligations. Each is left to make choices.  There is so much information, it is easier to recognize as a large, beautiful library.  In spite of ourselves, we hope each new apprentice will be curious enough to select an area of study. Apprentices, especially those struggling with confidence may find this a daunting aspect. Much easier to disguise our reluctance by being reluctant and pulled away by other responsibilities.   Masonry only asks us to find a balance between our many responsibilities in life, including those of the Craft. It is easier for some to thinking linearly, with one duty important and the others subordinate to it. Freemasonry frames our thinking in a bold, universal purpose- to replace ignorance with the lightness of understanding. How does it compare? It is unenforceable. In your heart, you know if you have been diligent in your researches. It is not for me to know or judge your effort. Masonry does not escape fiduciary responsibilities. We organize ourselves as such. Our constitutions have endured. The items do not fail us but they are vulnerable to interpretation. Ritual is defining and it too is sensitive to the temperament and effort of participants.  And we answer for missteps about perspective on that participation.  Some believe they are on the stage, portraying a role in stories of the human condition. Others find themselves in the audience, watching a morality play, being impacted by the theatre workshop. Not everyone does well on stage under the pressure of performance. There are many other useful ways to be part of a portrayal.  Continuity is important to us, not to block us but to encourage us to strive, not to settle for second best or good enough. Imagine listening to a discordant orchestra. Do we reach for a book or not?