"Are you a Mason?" ... "What makes you a Mason?"

Have you ever heard these questions before? I'm sure you have and I'm sure you know the answers. The first question opens up a very interesting conversation when asked by someone who is not. A person I have never met recently asked me if I was a Mason. Apparently he saw the pin on my hat. Well, of course, I answered yes. This individual proceeded to tell me things about our fraternity that you wouldn't believe! He was so misinformed about us that it was scary. Where he obtained this information is beyond me. I informed him about all the "good" that the "Blue Lodge" and all the other Masonic organizations do. He did not even know that the Shriners were Masons and all the charitable work they do. I just hope I gave him all the right answers and maybe changed his opinion of all Masons. Brethren, when we "mix again with the world," let us let everyone know who and what we are. Keep yourself educated and give everyone the right information so that the reputation of our great fraternity may flourish and prosper.

You also know the answer to the second question! But do you adhere to it? Do you remember what you have "promised?" We know our obligations, we know what we have to do, and we know what we are able to do. And, I realize that our life revolves around the length of our cable tow, which at times gets pretty tight. But let us not forget where we were "raised." We are members of the greatest fraternity in the world, let's keep it that way.

A blessed Thanksgiving to all.

Fraternally Yours,

Edward Gasior W.M.