Kansas Mason - Spring 2023

When is the Last Time?

Jonté Gold, Junior Grand Warden, M∴ W∴ Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Kansas

When is the last time? It’s a simple question that, depending on the context, can have a million different answers. Let me give you some examples. When is the last time you went to a Lodge meeting? Has it been a while, or have you been attending faithfully? When is the last time you called and checked on an older Lodge Brother? When was the last time you reached out to a disengaged/lost Brother? When is the last time you volunteered to be on a committee? When is the last time you took a seat in your Lodge? When is the last time you volunteered to take an active role in degree work or a funeral ceremony? When is the last time you checked on a fallen Brother’s widow or orphans? When is the last time, Brothers?

When is the last time you attended Grand Session? When is the last time you visited a sick Brother? When is the last time you donated your time for your Lodge? When is the last time you will wear your Apron? When is the last time you will put on your black suit and tie? When is the last time you will look in the mirror before leaving the house with your briefcase headed to a Lodge meeting? When is the last time you will see that Brother? When will you have your final Masonic act?

As we all know, each of us has a predestined appointment to reside in that celestial Lodge of Eternity. You see, my Brothers, there is a reason for the saying, “A craftsman’s work is never done.” We can all, myself included, always do a little more. This is one of the interesting little facts of life in most things…. All it takes is just a little more.

A little more is what separates good from great. Collectively, a little more is the difference between where we are now and where we once were. Individually, a little more has kept our great Fraternity alive since time immemorial. A little more was that Brother that stayed after meeting to clean up, that Brother that brought food and refreshment for a repast after a meeting, that Brother that helped another Brother when in need, that

Brother that offered his services when needed. All Brothers giving a little more can have a great effect. Edifices are built piece by piece and brick by brick, and they fall apart the same way. That one Brother can be the linchpin that brings and holds a Lodge together. So, eventually, their light can shine collectively. Freemasonry has a way of bringing men together and collectively accomplishing great things only made possible through individual efforts. We should treat every conversation with a Brother, every Lodge interaction, as if it will be the last time. Always do your best and make your last time a good time.