Recently, I returned to the eye doctor after far too long. I was relieved to hear that my vision hadn’t changed much, and it was the perfect opportunity to refresh my look. I decided to honor my grandfather by choosing a classic pair of horn-rimmed glasses, along with a more adventurous second pair with blue transitions. Not only did they look cool, but they also offered practical benefits for driving.
When I put on the second pair (the ones that were not a typical choice for me), I felt an instant boost in self-confidence. For a moment, my worries faded away, and I was ready to take on the world. Was this a bit vain? Perhaps, but it didn’t feel wrong. However, I realized that such fleeting moments, while uplifting, aren’t enough to truly inspire change in my life.
In the grand scheme, it might not seem significant—just a passing feeling. But maybe it is worth exploring further.
“Live in such a way that you would not be ashamed to sell your parrot to the town gossip.” – Bro. Will Rogers, US humorist and showman (1879-1935), Claremore Lodge No. 53 A.F.& A.M., Oklahoma, USA
For some time now, there has been a movement to equate leadership with outward self-confidence. This perspective overlooks an older ideology that emphasizes caring for others, keeping our word, and holding each other accountable; principles rooted in ethics and reflection on our thoughts and actions.
The divide seems to have deepened as we build our own prisons of isolation, brick by brick, cementing our solitude with the false comfort of technology. The dopamine fixes from social media notifications only reinforce our place in this new reality, drawing us further inward. In a society that has turned so introspective, we may not even recognize what’s happening—much like how my glasses momentarily clarified my vision.
In many ways, Masonry holds the key to the happiness and sense of contribution that our spirits truly crave. It resonates with one of the best compliments I’ve received recently: “You bring calmness through your ability to create order from chaos.” This remark from a friend in pain reaffirmed that I’m on the right path. We should all take to heart the important question posed by Most Worshipful Brother Tom McCarthy at Rochester Lodge #21: “Are we truly who we say we are?”
“Remember not only to say the right thing in the right place, but far more difficult still, to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment.” – Bro. Benjamin Franklin, US author, diplomat, inventor, politician, & printer (1706-1790), St. John´s Lodge of Philadelphia, USA
Assuming we can avoid the ‘fake it till we make it’ hero mentality of merely filling rosters or checking off agenda items, and instead transform our thoughts into actions of competence and compassion, we unlock a tremendous gift: lifetimes of wisdom dedicated to a common mission and purpose, veiled in symbols and allegory.
While lodge business and buildings are necessary, they do not define Masonry. Most Worshipful Grand Master Foster Solem has it right when he points us to the meanings of ritual for guidance. Where are you investing your time, and are you truly reaping the rewards? If not, why not? Are you willing to partner with those around you to make the world a better place? Are you learning and tending to the needs of your brothers and fellow men? … Or do you feel pressured to set those concerns aside in favor of simply checking boxes?
We Masons are among the fortunate ones who are taught to meet together with others opposing convictions or competitive ideas and yet respect each other as Brothers. — Albert Pike US author, poet, orator, editor, lawyer, jurist, and soldier (1809 – 1891), Western Star Lodge of Arkansas
This article is not intended to evoke sadness or diminish the essential activities of a functioning lodge. Instead, like my glasses, it aims to bring clarity and focus. I hope to encourage readers to reflect on what truly matters and inspire a deeper, purposeful contribution to the greater sense of connectedness—something I deeply value. Without Freemasonry and the support of the Brothers who have invested in me, I would not be where I am today. I wish the same for all good men that found themselves knocking at our door. If you need someone to study with, I am here and would love to hear from you.
Until then, travel well.