IMAGINE FREEMASONRY; STEPPING INTO THE DARKNESS TOGETHER, TRUSTING EACH OTHER

We know the difference. We know what effort feels like. We know dominating conversation or tossing around ideas as if directing the thoughts of brethren, is not mentoring. It is not even instruction or training. Why then do we struggle to listen carefully enough to understand the apprentice in each one of us?   Audi. Vide. Tace.  The diabolical lessons on which all other adventures depend.  Freemasonry has always been distinct from any other experience.  The club atmosphere is such a departure.  Since no one is singularly responsible for this hollowing out of character changing Masonic experiences, then all of us are to blame.  Afraid are we, to trust that geometry of the Cathedrals is still reliable? If this offends  acceptablity- prove your work. So we can know one another in that matter; distinguishing journeyman from apprentice, thoughful from ennui. If you have heard someone suggest we would be better men if it weren't for the fact we are masons voluntarily, that loveable brother is grasping at straws.  Insight has never been ordered up. Never.  Though weak command will criticize a man confused by orders, neither authority nor force of numbers  or ego, at best uncomfortable, has ever or can ever make speculation true. If we were confident in our abilities, supported by facts/science and imagination/arts we would be bold and be employing 5POF as more than flattering words. Ignorance seems more the threat than trying and failing. Acting rashly and being tastelessly is not appropriate as we know it.  Right and wrong, black and white. are ideas that divide us. Being right, based on limited reasoning, at the expense of others is what it is- embarrassing.  The lessons and experience of Freemasonry teaches us what to do and where consistent with our ethics, creates an environment that encourages effort, effort he needs to achieve beyond  his grasp.