Dear Brethren,

Consider if you will, the rough Ashler and the perfect Ashler. WE are instructed in the Entered Apprentice lecture that the rough Ashler, a stone in its rude and natural state, is a representation of mortal man, and the perfect Ashler, a stone made ready by the hands of skilled workmen, is a representation of our goal to achieve perfection in life. Can such perfection be achieved in our mortal life? Sadly, no, it cannot. So why do we try to reach such an unobtainable goal? Because we are Masons! The Masonic "code of conduct" obligates us to strive to help others, both Mason and non Mason alike, and improve our own lives morally and spiritually.

We are also instructed in the Entered Apprentice Degree to "divest our hearts and consciences of all the vices and superfluities of life" to assist us in our endeavor of becoming a perfect Ashler. Those who concern themselves with worldly possessions or instant gratification are unlikely to obtain this goal. The rewards for our noble actions will be realized when we stand before our creator.

Every kind or charitable act we make is another strike of the "common gavel" to the stone, and brings us closer to being a perfect Ashler.

Historians debate whether King Solomon's Temple actually ever existed. The physical existence of such an edifice is of no concern to Masons. We know that King Solomon's Temple is a work in progress, and we labor on its construction every day. Live your life as a Mason and you will eventually earn the honor of becoming a stone in King Solomon's Temple.

Fraternally,
James T. Lind
Worshipful Master