THE GRIP

Fullfilling the mandate- an idea that on one hand seems to absolve a man of responsibility for his life and on the other speaks to moral geometry in the same way mathematics speaks to metaphysics. It took more than an overactive imagination to think labelling the exchange of ideas between men was necessary.  We will never know the motivation but we can speculate to satisfy our own preconceived notions, that it was altruism that caused certain behaviours. That and noticing that moralizing was not morality.  If we thought about ways to deepen and broaden the experience of Masonry, we would mix our scientists with our artists in a place where metaphysics and ethics co-exist. The pocket care and testimonial wall hangings might be sufficient where masonry is shopped around to an unending marketplace of men coming of age, except that it begs the accuracy of definition, a place were speculation has been infused with conjecture.  If our practices are not achieving the kind of understanding embodied by the Ancient Landmarks, we've simply failed to understand some aspect of the calculus. We won't push aside one aspect for another when they need to coexist, both in the mind and in reality.  Today, some of us rationalize the decline of this particular river by looking upstream at processes needed to maintain the flow. Knowing as we do, that we can pause to savour a moment in time, everything and everybody is in a constant state of flux. Some effects are quick. Others take millenium. Each aspect interacts with other influences. And here we are, somewhat astonished at new observations in the same moment other men deny the existence of things they cannot understand.  Look for the pocket where you find compatibilty with brethren in whatever define a rewarding experience. Acknowledge it is one form among others that have their own diversity and understanding what holds this universe of ours together, are properties of mathematics.