Over the past weekend, I traveled to Waite Park for the AD-DR/Leadership Academy. Sometimes it is refreshing to be a fly on the wall and simply observe. On day one, I listened to discussions about marketing, saw strong engagement, and listened in on leadership presentations. One of the benefits of being an observer was the freedom to define the experience on my own terms. As I was listening, I saw the care and effort that went into these gatherings, and I want to send a heart-felt thank you to those who made it possible.
After the group adjourned on day one, I headed to the hotel, but not before stopping by a local burger joint called Val’s. I’d seen it mentioned on social media and decided it was worth checking out. To be honest, the crowd and the snow almost made me turn back, but I pushed on. Sometimes, stepping outside of our comfort zone leads to the best experiences.
After placing my order, I turned around and ran into Brother Steve. I greeted him with, “Hey, I know you!” We had a great conversation before I headed back to the hotel. What I love about such evenings is the rare opportunity to be free from worry and commitment—a chance to clear my mind and truly relax. That’s exactly what I did.
The next morning, I woke up to more snow. Hopefully, Mother Nature will get it out of her system before April! I attended additional leadership sessions and engaged in several hands-on, interactive exercises with the DRs. I had the privilege of sitting with RWB Frank, WB Reed, and WB Greg. Together we quickly realized the importance of effective feedback loops in building a Lego Duplo helicopter. In this exercise, I had to give instructions without being able to see what was being built. While I love books, I find I learn best through hands-on/interactive learning—these exercises were incredibly valuable.
In the afternoon, I participated in more leadership discussions, including a presentation on community networking, how we perceive ourselves as Masons, and how to respectfully address conflict. One of the guest presenters shared a personal story about one of her relatives who worked in coal mines out east. He was supported by his Masonic brothers in finding new employment when he needed the help—a relevant reminder of the importance of our brotherhood.
The discussions were insightful and provided plenty of food for thought, highlighting areas for further study on leadership: a topic sure to be emphasized in the upcoming year. I was also given a few new projects that I have already started to kick-off with a little help from AI, and Brothers I have been mentoring in Computer Science. More on that soon…
While the talks were beneficial, the real highlights came from unplanned moments. First, a dear friend and brother, who winters in Florida, flew back just to attend the conference. It was great to reconnect and catch up with WB Aaron. I have missed him. I also had the chance to sit down with Markus, a brother who consistently shows interest and offers much wisdom. Genuine listening and empathy are priceless gifts we can give each other, and Markus is a shining example of someone who has obviously worked to master this art.
Our conversations touched on life and the choices it presents, which I suspect inspired WB Reed to deliver one of the most memorable orations I’ve ever heard. You may listen to it on the Minnesota Masonic Histories and Mysteries podcast: Episode 61. It is a reflection on life, and our responsibility to focus on the tenants of Freemasonry. As I posted on social, I encourage everyone and anyone to give it a listen. For those who wonder what Freemasonry is, it does an excellent job of explaining.
February is a time to show appreciation for those we love. While this should be a daily habit, I hope everyone took a moment to send a Valentine, share a kind word, or enjoy a meal with loved ones. If not, it’s never too late. As a friend once said, sometimes flowers are most meaningful when given “just because it’s Tuesday.”
Hope is a powerful thing—just as its absence can be. In the coming weeks, I encourage you to reach out to a brother simply because they cross your mind. There should always be time for a cup of coffee with a friend—or at least a quick call to say, “Hello.”
In closing, some have asked if there will be an education breakout session at the annual communication. Indeed, there will be, and I hope to see you there – coffee in hand. Until then, travel well my brothers.