Throughout its degrees, Masonry teaches an inside-out approach to self-improvement. Looking through the mirror, self-reflection is the point. Evaluating the tools we are handed, and scrutinizing their application is the traveler’s path to spiritual growth. The basic implements of leadership are subsequently represented in the teachings of our own working tools and in the lessons of our degrees. We promised to apply them and continually work to improve ourselves. This was of our own free will.
As WB Reed asks, “Are we who we say we are?”
“To rule has been the lot of many and requires neither strength of intellect nor soundness of judgement; to rule well has been the fortune of few.” This statement is not specifically about the Worshipful Master or any other management role, but how they decide to conduct themselves. The best of us understand that leading is a choice to serve those around us. Most typically, people follow leaders because they want to, and not because they must. “be ever mindful, that though elevated for a time above his fellows, he is elevated by them.”
I sometimes wonder if we lose sight of that in our world of self-centeredness and distractions so obviously reflected by social media and its emojis, likes and dings. It is easy to get comfortable, or to defer to someone else, but cabletows are about ability – not convenience. Without our willingness to show up, we lose credibility.
I failed to call a Brother I care about when it most counted. I regret it deeply, and I now recognize that I was distracted by much less important noise. I am human and it was a learning experience. It was not my first mistake, and I seriously doubt it will be my last. I will do everything I can to avoid making that mistake again. Humility is the path to wisdom.
To practice Masonry requires commitment and service. We each gave our word to appropriately represent it while bringing light to the world. We knocked at the door and were freely given the opportunity to become Masons; we were given the tools to look after widows, orphans, friends and Brothers. We were given the opportunity to lead.
Once we ground ourselves in this truth and its extreme responsibility, we become ready to interface with the rest of the world – supported by a great foundation and network of our Brothers. Providing strength and support to society is needed now more than any other time I’ve seen in my lifetime.
To this end, the Grand Lodge of Minnesota has been meeting with leadership programs at the University of Minnesota. You may have met Kathy Quick at one of our gatherings or heard her on the recent Minnesota Masonic Histories and Mysteries podcast. She is a kind and gentle person who cares deeply about the communities around us. As I listened to her discussion with Reed, I was taken by her appreciation for silence and circumspection; leadership qualities that certainly resonate with me. She was vulnerable and exhibited her deep appreciation for service to her fellow human beings, and a strong desire to build meaningful connections. I am excited to see what opportunities the future may hold for us to collaborate with her, and other like-minded individuals – however that may materialize.
In closing, as a dear friend pointed out to me: nobody can make leaders. To lead is a choice. Masonry provides the tools for a man to make that choice and find success if he so chooses. Keeping that gift to ourselves is to ignore some of the most important characteristics of our tools, ceremonies, and lectures. I hope that resonates.
I look forward to crossing paths with you soon my Brothers. Until then, travel well.
Fraternally,
Brad