MMMmmm... Turkey
And some Masonry!
I’m typing this on Monday afternoon, surrounded by the smells of Thanksgiving. Our Lodge meets tonight, and Melinda is doing a traditional Turkey and ham dinner for us with all the trimmings. The house smells amazing!
So, that’s your warning. If my writing in this post makes absolutely no sense, well it’s because I’m slowly losing my mind waiting for the turkey to be done!
And to make matters even worse, I’m waiting for the mailman, who is running late today, for he is supposed to be bringing me a ‘new old stock’ hat!
Our conversations the past few days have brought a new question to my mind.
If you had two Lodges to choose from, which would you find most satisfying and fulfilling:
Lodge number 1, well in keeping with what you envision Masonry should be, fairly well run, with few problems.
Lodge number 2, a generally poorly run Lodge, with significant problems. But, with a handful of Brothers eager for change.
In Lodge number 1, you can just fit in with the group, and enjoy your time there.
In Lodge number 2, you have a great opportunity to work to improve things.
Over the long run, which would be more satisfying and fulfilling to you?
Let’s chat about it…
One of the reasons why I joined the lodge that I did is that I felt I could be of help. They were struggling with active members, the master at that time had been recycled 5 times, and he was only a mason for around 10 years or something. I can't say I've done anything more than add a body to the line of officers, and filled holes where needed, but I think every little bit helps. We're slowly getting new members, the prospect management system is a big help, more lodges need to take advantage of it.
MWB Bailey, I think most of us try to find a place where we fit to some extent, but also where we can be of value. A lot of prospects in my travels have voiced an interest in finding a place that they can help build or support a Lodge in some fashion. Asking to be of service.
Most of the men I’ve met in my life desire some combination of purpose and enlightenment. If you find a place that needs nothing, and offers only social engagement, what is there to be learned, or to offer purpose? Not that it isn’t important of course.
It generally seems that those truly looking to build, seek, or teach will gravitate to places where those things are possible. Perhaps visiting others to recharge and engage in their social activities.
Though fortunately I think we will likely find more of the in between. Offering social and good cheer, while still needing a little bit of something to make it shine. I think Brother Hyclak does a great job of exploring Perfection in his essay that lends itself perfectly to the occasion.
I’ve also heard a Brother regularly say Men bond over building and doing things together, I’d have to say that I agree with him. 😉