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Freemasonry is a very human institution
in that it rewards merit, ability, and even long service.
The real rewards of the Craft are, of course, the knowledge
of tasks well done, of fraternal relations well maintained,
and the consciousness of the well-earned respect of
one's fellows. These realities are illustrated by symbols,
by medals, jewels, collars and chains of office and
long service badges. Each has its peculiar significance,
and each is valued by the recipient according to the
circumstances in which he gained it and in which he
wears it.
Those who learn, submit and obey must
do so with a good grace, for Freemasonry is a constituted
organization, with grades and ranks of officers, with
peculiar rights, duties and authorities pertaining to
each. Respect and deference are due to one's superior's
courtesy and in the old pompous word, none the less
telling for that, condescension to inferiors. There
is nothing servile in bowing to constituted and accepted
authority for the common good. Every brother may have
his say in the Lodge; it is the Master who rules, and
even he must submit to higher authority.
Humility is an essential characteristic'not
only in 'those who learn, submit and obey, but also
in those who rule and teach. They must realize that
their authority is but for a day, and is ah authority,derived
not from the Craft. It is an authority held in trust,
not to be used capriciously, not to be abuse?;i8ut to
be exercised in accordance with certain well-known principles,
in the common good.
All our ranks are temporary and our
offices are rea.lly opportunities for the service of
the Lodge, not for self-aggrandisment. Our past rank
is simply a dignity with which our Brethren invest us
as a memento of our period of service, not as a passport
to further authority. It is the representing of the
Lodge that is important. As a Master stands before his
Lodge he is less its Ruler than it's Leader and the
leader should be glad to exercise the authority his
Brethren have for the llme being vested in him.
Courtesy - "The IndiacMasonic
Journal" - August,1956
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