THE BOOK OF MASONRY

The Book of Masonry has never been written. It has been passed along; discovered by some, learned by others unprotected from evolving cultural norms and morays.  Enough of the essence has been preserved, such that Masonry continues to thrive, as honoured in some corners as it is fraught in others.  Over the centuries, the way we think about secrecy changed. Our secrets conjure memories of journey and risk; the duel of Ajax with Hector; the anger of a church when meaning was tested by science; as we are not as we want to be. No longer having the perrogative of a gentrified mens social club, Masonry has stumbled through a period of materialism leaving it too often in doubt and confused. Our history is unfinished. Our hindsights are partial and unfolding. Until we connect, we externalize an everpresent dissonace. Until we understand the relationship between ideas and self, we walk alone, until we connect by accident with another traveller of similar experiences, confident enough to embrace humility. What we read and how we learn is less important than what we take away.  Masonry can slake thrist, but as we know one of us drinking does nothing for the next one until he kneels and sips.   So many metaphors colour our thinking as Master Masons. So many options to choose. Select one or some or pass by.  Eventually you will find what appeals; call it connecting, or understanding, or nothing at all, you will find what you wish for, perilous or otherwise- truths to live by.  Meanwhile, enjoy the tall tales and dreams. It all exists, various planes of masonry. The doing and being of a good man.