HAUTS GRADES ACADEMY A Journey of 1,000 Steps

by Yasser Al-Khatib 33°, MSA, HGA Chairman of the Hauts Grades Academy Advisory Board

Many are familiar with Lao Tzu’s famous proverb: “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” The name Lao Tzu is translated in one iteration as the “Old Master” full of wisdom and knowledge. For his words to endure thousands of years across several cultures speaks to the universality of his ideals. And such is Freemasonry, full of allegories and moral stories that have proven endurance and utility over at least 300 years. Thus, our Masonic charges teach us that knowledge can only be attained in degrees, a real-life lesson in diligence and prudence.

The Hauts Grades Academy (HGA) was designed to encourage the progress and development of Scottish Rite Masons in the Northern Jurisdiction. I have often come across Brothers in Freemasonry who attempt to rush the joys of fellowship, progress, and education. It is almost like a race that never has a finish line—as if we are always on a quest for that which was not lost, but rather what lies beyond our current task. We do not travel to Disney, the Pyramids, or the Caribbean to get a picture to post on social media or to get a visa on our passport. We travel to these locations to create memories. And what are memories but moments in life that never desert us. Close your eyes and remember something from your favorite trip. I bet you are smiling!

As you embark on HGA or any Scottish Rite activity, please make sure that you are in the business of creating those moments that will make you smile in retrospect because you were filled with joy while doing them. Do not let perfect get in the way of your pursuit of happiness, and spread that energy to those around you. It is shameful when we hear about turmoil between friends and family, and while tensions arise, we must remember the joyful moments that will soften our hearts and bring us back to that temple built with brotherly love.

Do not let perfect get in the way of your pursuit of happiness.

In that light, when you embark on HGA, the journey may be rough, but as Victor Hugo wrote “tis noble to suffer.” No matter how hard it gets, remember what William Shakespeare wrote in Henry VIII that “action is eloquence.”

I urge you to take on the HGA journey. If you choose to, remember to enjoy and celebrate it. HGA is for every Scottish Rite Mason. It is a personal journey—as tedious as 1,000 steps. It will also be 1,000 enjoyable moments that will leave a print on you for life.

Sapere Aude!

To learn more about HGA and sign up for the waitlist, visit ScottishRiteNMJ.org/ hauts-grades-academy