i am a new FC and was having a good discussion about this with a brother yesterday.
one thing that was pretty much blown by in the lesson, seems to be the foundation of the entire lesson.
after being asked by what ****** ***** ** ******* *** ******* **** ****** ******, the first part of that answer is the entire basis of what masonry is becoming to me...
By being * ***.
* *** to me embodies the very core of masonic values.
* ***, <to me>
aids the needy
stands up for his beiliefs
is responsible
takes care of his family <and brothers>
has the moral fortitude to do what is right instaed of what is always easy
is a good citizen
etc...
that entire line seems to just be blown by in the lesson as just another thing you are told to memorise. there is more to being a man than having the proper plumbing.
An individual that is found lacking in these qualities can not and should not be initiaited, those qualities being necessary to build upon by the lessons of freemasonry.
i took my time <almost a year> to contemplate and learn what i think this degree had to offer me. to me it taught me to hold secret what i was about to be shown and told me what i need to be in possession of before earning my next degree.
in my lodge there seems to be a eagerness to push new candidates through the 3 degrees as quickly as possible. the rational being that once a MM you can go back and study what you missed. i feel this is a mistake. the wording and ceremony of each degree is there for a reason and should be studied in depth before moving on IMHO.
i understand the brothers want to get us there quickly as they are as eager to share as we are to learn, that said this is a journey, it should take time to earn the right to have the next degree given to you.
just some ramblings from a new FC
-- edited by Administration for content