Dear Brethren,

We all hear about certain words that have a lot of meaning. Words that we just throw around and use whenever it seems fit. One of those words is "friend."

Good ole' Webster defines "friend" as "someone who freely supports and helps out of good will, an acquaintance, an ally and a person who covenants to give help over a period of time."

We all have good "friends." They will aid us in the good times as well as the bad times. They will always be there. Sometimes we may not agree with what they say and do, but they are still our friends. We call on them when needed and rely on them for some help. Some of our "best friends" are our wives, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, relatives and Masonic brethren.

When a personal family matter comes to light, it is the relatives and close family who are our friends, and we can count on them. Anything else that may occur, we usually rely on our closest friends. But have a friend and being a friend is a two way street. Like everything else in life, you get what you give. Help others and they will be happy to help you.

As a Mason, we made some promises and pledges. Let us not forget those duties that were so frequently recommended and inculcated in the Lodge. Help an erring brother or friend whether he is a mason or not. Show them how fraternity works and that we are always there to help anyone who may need our assistance.

In the next few months of this year we will hopefully be raising three new brethren. They have been working very hard on their ritual and could use some "friends." It would be nice to see all the able brothers attend their degrees and show the support that they deserve. The gentlemen are our future "friends."

Fraternally,
Edward Gasior
Worshipful Master