THE PROPER GENTLEMAN

If you came into the order having me taught your manners, the refinements and etiquettes of court will be quite simple. If you are fortunate, you had been carefully chosen, compared to your betters.  As we walk passed, we will notice a guide explaining works of various artists to an eager knot of patrons until we find what we search for. Where we linger, moving closer, then back, examining, questioning, satisfying single minded pursuit. What emotion? What point? A transcription of noble gestures? The shortcomings of mankind? Devotion? Tragedy? Look around? We only imagine we know when we quietly pass bye, so not to disturb his revery. Art can be atmospheric, soothing, transformative. Private. An experience made by you, for you. What swirls in your mind? The essential inner experience of von Gothe? The distinctions of deCarte? Impressions? No one else knows the experience as well or in as much detail as you. Bringing your ideas to mind becomes easier when pressed by a good trusted friend, always the dialogue. You and your book. You and your music. You and your art. You and your conscience. You and your creator. And if you have the gift of second sight, your experience will be enhanced in a masonic lodge.  Not a panacea for strife, but knowing the truth as far as you can take it, is far better than guessing.  Pity those unable to find the justification, the ethic to deal with pain and loss who do not know how to let the self die.  Such contemplation, you find takes you farther away from the madding crowd.