Celebrating Success

by Michael C. Russell, 32˚, Executive Director

From our earliest years of tee ball to sitting on the couch watching the Big Game on a beautiful Sunday afternoon in February, every season has its cinematic culmination. The pièce de résistance for Scottish Rite in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction is June 16 of each year. This is the official end and beginning of a new Valley year.

In 2020-2021, the unthinkable happened. Freemasonry and the world were shut down in nearly every town and every city in our jurisdiction. Who knew we would be sitting here on June 16 celebrating some great successes—successes not seen in many years!

Some may see this as “just another day.” I want you to see June 16 as a time of reflection, of enthusiasm, of excitement for where you have been and a target for where you want to be. Take time to CELEBRATE YOUR SUCCESS! Send a letter to your members about how excited you are for their membership. Think on and enjoy the little things— things like burnt coffee, stale donuts, and that feeling of a sore hand after a good Masonic handshake.

Once you have taken the time you need to celebrate your Valley accomplishments, then and only then should you start working toward that feeling of success once again.

The upcoming Supreme Council Session in Cleveland is a great time to praise and raise up those who won big. And celebrate we shall!

Know that your Supreme Council is proud of your work. We will all soon be back–sleeves rolled up, ready and willing to win in 2022!