FAMILY AFFAIR

"As a young girl, my initial exposure to the Masonic movement inspired a feeling of awe at the pomp and circumstance, and the glorious banquets held to honour the ladies and guests at a Masonic Temple in India. (My uncle looked so impressive in his tux with many medals and a red sash along with many of his friends dressed in similar regalia. )

"On those occasions, and at his home, I saw the pure joy of brotherhood as my uncle and his friends shared happy moments together. My Grandmother pointed out an example of Masonic brotherhood. She said that Masons gave moral and financial support to someone we knew who had a large family and was experiencing ‘difficult times’. When he eventually passed away, a Masonic funeral service was held to respect him, after which the family funeral service was held.

HUSBAND KEPT OCCUPIED

"On coming to Canada you expressed your desire to join Masons, but we were caught up in our lives and the years slipped by us. After visiting the Grand Lodge Communication Event, you were hooked, and I was supportive of your joining the lodge. I knew it would keep you occupied, interested, and out of mischief. As the Worshipful Master explained to me, there is much more to Masonry than pageantry, drama, pomp, and circumstance that I was exposed to as a young girl. Masonry supports the principles of everything I strongly believe, attributes that make a good human being.

FOUR ATTRIBUTES

"The first is brotherhood. I witnessed things like your Brothers spending hours of their valuable time, helping you practice, and accompanying you to special nights at different locations. Others gave you advice and support, visited you in our home at high holy days, or invited you to participate in their functions. Today others have come great distances to honour your installation.

"The second is continuous learning. A number of times I heard loud whispering coming from another room. Either you had a girlfriend you were whispering sweet nothings to or you were talking to yourself. I couldn't resist my curiosity so I crept up to see what was going on. You know what I found? You were studying hard for a part for an upcoming lodge meeting. (I never witnessed this enthusiasm when you were studying at college.) As a rookie, you worked your way up through various levels, always coming back recharged with a sense of accomplishment. When you were elected secretary, you were busy again learning a computer program and different rules and regulations. Continuous learning is, I believe, what keeps you focused and gives a sense of purpose to your life, i.e., to learn to be a better Mason, your peers always there to listen and support.

"Charity and compassion are the third principle. I am aware of the charities you support, but I especially remember the joy I felt, accompanying you with those Christmas Poinsettias for the Widows of the Lodge. It demonstrated how critical it is to give comfort and remain connected.

"The fourth is pride, tradition, and dedication. I've seen you and your Brothers share all three, lighting up like a Christmas Tree when talking about Masonry. I was told that you are symbolically rebuilding King Solomon's Temple and I feel that this movement is steeped in ritual and tradition which binds you to faith in God.

POWERFUL EXAMPLE

"Masonry is a powerful example. It overcomes the barriers of religion and ethnicity and connects Brothers world wide. You and I have often met individuals we don't know, who have welcomed us in their midst in this same true spirit of Masonry.

The remarkable and concrete principles which symbolize the Masonic movement, as it has been demonstrated to me, are nourishment to my soul and it makes me hopeful that there are others out there in the world who have similar values and principles.

"I want to present you with this gavel. My personal message suggests that a good leader needs the Wisdom of Solomon, the patience of Job, and the intuition of a good woman. You need never feel that you are alone as you have the support of wonderful individuals—and I am always here if you need me."