Why I Give

For most of us, our idea of reality comes from our own small world experience. That is not a bad thing – the closer we are to a problem, the more personal and important it becomes. Over my 40-year Masonic journey I have had the opportunity, through my Lodge and Valley, to assist Brothers in need. Let me share with you why I give to the Scottish Rite Grand Almoner's Fund.

I am privileged to serve the Scottish Rite as a member of this jurisdiction’s Path Forward team and director of our Media Services. Several years ago, our team was asked to create a new film highlighting our Grand Almoner’s Fund. When we produce charitable giving videos, we share the sad and personal stories of a Brother or his family and how the generosity of others can ease their pain.

For this project we selected several stories connected by the same tragic circumstance, Hurricane Sandy. In 2012, Sandy slammed the East Coast of the United States with wind, rain, and record-setting storm surge. One of the hardest hit areas was New Jersey, and our film told the story of several Masonic families devastated by that storm. We called it “Three Stories,” and being a member of that film crew changed me forever.

My “behind-the-scenes” experience to share with you is that the raw emotion and tears in that film were not only from those who shared their story, but all of us on the crew who struggled with our assignments. We were overwhelmed with sadness, yes, but also overwhelmed with pride, knowing as Freemasons we were there in time of need to reach out a hand to a fallen Brother.

I find it inconceivable that any Freemason seeing that sadness is not compelled to help. The Grand Almoner’s Fund allows me to help others far beyond my own world, meeting a larger need and serving a greater good.

James O. Dill, 33° Valley of Boston