November always brings thoughts of the past. Our Remembrance Day observances remind us to be both thankful and vigilant: thankful for the many freedoms that we enjoy in our daily lives and vigilant against the forces that would undermine these freedoms.
The school where I began my teaching career was home to a nationally catalogued memorial gallery created by students after 29 of their classmates were killed during World War I. I had opportunity to work in beta phase on a book about the gallery and the students for whom the paintings were acquired. I was struck by their youthfulness (several lying about their age so they could enlist) and how many of them died within days of arriving on the battefields, especially at Passchendaele. Their sacrifice, and the sacrifice of all who have been involved in that and subsequent wars, must never be forgotten. We honour their lives and memories each November 11. I know that many lodges also hold moments of remembrance to recognize our veterans, both fallen and living, and I commend all who do. No matter where we are on November 11, let us take a moment of silent reflection to express our gratitude for the freedoms that their sacrifice has given us.
As Freemasons, we are likewise called to remember the foundation laid by our brethren who have gone before, but we also honour their work by continuing to build and not remaining stagnant. Getting to a lodge meeting is far easier now than relying on a train schedule, horse cart, or the light of the full moon to illuminate the trip (sometimes on a hand car in winter weather). There are other obstacles, though, and we must find ways to overcome them.
Speaking of that freedom, we must always be grateful that we can meet in our communities without having to skulk around. Similarly, with that freedom comes an obligation to further the life of each lodge. Just as our fallen helped to make our way of life safe, let us express our thanks in exercising the freedom to gather with like-minded men in our lodges. When you are received into a lodge, you become part of a vibrant and exciting group. Your time and energy is the true expense asked of you, so please give generously. The best way to honour our fallen is to live the life that they were unable to enjoy.
As a member of your lodge, consider how you can serve it best. Arrive at the meetings early. Help set up the lodge room and arrange the furniture. Coach a younger brother through these arrangements so that he learns how our lodges are formed and how each officer fits into that larger scheme. Plan interesting meetings that involve education. How many times have I and others heard that education is desired by so many? Stay for the festive board after meetings and share in that social interaction that deepens our attachment to both our lodges and our fellow brethren. Help a brother get to lodge by offering a ride. A quick text message or phone call to simply check in can be appreciated more than you know. Don’t wait for it to happen to you – make it happen for others.
I hope that your lives are filled with mirth more than sorrow. Being a Mason does not mean that there will not be struggles, but it does mean that you do not have to face those struggles alone. Blaze a trail that others will want to follow. Offer the hand of friendship and brotherly love. Be the Mason that you want to see filling your lodge room. Find your centre.
MW Bro. Patrick Davis
Grand Master 2024-25