It is impossible for anyone to know precisely what a candidate is searching for when he approaches the lodge room door for the first time. Nor will he have a clear idea of that for which he seeks, given that we of the brotherhood go to such great lengths to ensure that he does not know what goes on inside. To some degree, what sets us apart from the other less colourful institutions is that veil of mystery we have purposefully draped over our fraternity. It shrouds the truth from outside eyes and in so doing tends to establish with some brethren expectations that may be far greater and considerably more complex than those that challenge other organizations.
Mystery, myth and media have generated a newfound interest in Freemasonry, and many men now stand at the door bearing bizarre and insubstantial notions they have blithely gathered in forays to movie theatres and the World Wide Web. Their genuine desire to open this closed book is real, but their assumptions can lead to disappointment. When the door swings wide and the meaning of life and the universe aren’t forthwith imparted to them, along with a detailed map to the Holy Grail, they become disenchanted.
Unable to comprehend what the enlightened Mason comprehends, their prodigious outlook overshadows the authentic function of our Order, and they remain detached from the significance of its purpose. Unfulfilled and uneasy men will find it difficult to meet their potential as Freemasons and they may grow frustrated, complacent or dissonant. Without proper counsel, they may eventually be lost to us.
Freemasonry honours a simple convention that defies time and the evolution taking place outside the lodge room walls. It offers a venue where we can gather with our brethren in a space occupied by ancient symbols - an invitation to learn something of ourselves and our history as we ponder their significance. It provides meaningful ritual and lessons to live by. Most importantly, it grants us an opportunity to take responsibility for our personal maturation and to establish our proper place in the world. The value of the journey lies in the quest rather than in the discovery.
Freemasonry does not have the capacity to provide everyone with everything they want - nor was it meant to. It is not a fantasy novel, a social club or a business opportunity. It presents far fewer answers than questions. It makes no promises…
But we did.
So let us always remember those words we spoke in that hushed room beneath the vaulted canopy, for therein lies our reward.
Brightest Blessings,
W. Bro. Daniel Boyco, W.M.
Exemplar Lodge #175
Edmonton
A.F. & A.M., G.R.A.
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