TheJourney of a True

By Wayne Spooner

Every great and impactful journey in life includes a clear and visual understanding of the ultimate destination of the traveler. As a Speculative Freemason, what is your destination? Where are you going? What is the focus of your journey?

As we progress through the three degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry, we are provided with clues, tools and insights that begin to help us learn the answers to those questions. Much of the wisdom of Freemasonry is contained within its “mysteries” which must be unlocked and unpacked by investing dedicated time to study, contemplate and challenge ourselves in new ways. Though simply said, that work is not easy; however, it is a worthwhile and beneficial investment in yourself! It is some of the most rewarding work that we are expected to do during our lifetime. Also, realized or not, it is the work that we signed up for “of our own free will and accord.” Notably, those valuable insights help to inform the positive choices that we make now and into the future.

As Freemasons, we are all workmen in the quarries of life. Though we may have distinct roles and responsibilities, tenure in the fraternity, talents, and strengths, etc., we are all on the same level as Brethren. Each of us is given an equal opportunity to contribute as building blocks and quality material for the continued growth and development of our Lodges and grand jurisdiction. Can you see the designs on the Trestleboard and the section of The Architect’s plan that governs the portion of the work designated for you? The importance of that question is amplified by a profound quote from Brother Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) - “The two most important days in your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why.” What is your “why”? Quite seriously, why are you here? What is your purpose?

Our ancient and honorable fraternity provides the devoted student with the ability to answer all of the questions raised thus far and many more. As we travel the road to acquiring proficiency, we use three primary types of fuel — Study (acquiring knowledge), Practice (gaining experience and sharpening skills) and Feedback (obtaining detailed insights from a proven Master). Building a track record of success aids the confidence in your choices when the journey seems rough, and the road is not straight. Next, to begin purposefully unlocking the mysteries of Freemasonry requires an important mindset shift. Here is a cornerstone to lay in your mind — “Freemasonry is a way of life - a timeless approach to living, loving, learning, and inspiring the best in each other for the betterment of society.” Yes Brethren, Freemasonry and our individual Masonic Journey of Self-Improvement are furthered by all of the small actions and behaviors that we do every single day. We are expected to make well-informed and conscious choices about our future! It is not magic; it is like the action of putting one foot in front of the other or laying one brick upon another to build a beautiful edifice. Put in the work and the positive results will be realized. Remember, we are Builders; it is our heritage!

As well-informed Speculative Freemasons, we are True Travelers on the journey of our lives to become the absolute best version of ourselves — putting into magnificent bloom our “why” (unique gifts, talents, and strengths) to contribute meaningfully to Freemasonry, our families, friends, and communities. Fundamentally, it is completing the work set forth for each of us on the plans created by the Grand Architect of the Universe. Further, as Lodge members, we combine our strengths and amplify the positive activities done together to invoke pride, respect and admiration in the Lodge and Freemasonry overall. We embrace our shared role as “Caretakers of Freemasonry” and heed the unspoken admonition to pass it along in a condition better than we received it. Those actions and behaviors have fueled and propelled our ancient and honorable fraternity forward for centuries.

Finally, Brethren, as a True Traveler, be a beacon light and worthy example of this faithful motto, “Masons living

Masonry in their daily lives.” Be the Light for others which breaks through the darkness in their lives. Let our Light shine to confirm that good men do exist in the world, because we exist. Let the people around us know and feel that words like honor, integrity, freedom, equality, and tolerance are still alive. Let them see Brotherly Love in action, know how we help one another learn those valued Masonic truths that drive selfimprovement, and witness how we combine our capabilities to selflessly serve mankind. Lastly, always know that you do not travel alone and have a unique opportunity to help advance the positive legacy of our Speculative Craft of Builders!

R.W.B. Wayne Spooner Grand Lodge Membership Committee Chairman