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The District Light
information and Masonic Education May 2018 ( Niagara B District ) bhodwitzgmailcom
A Recurring Theme
What can we do to attract good members What can we do to keep them interested
These two questions have been asked many times with the risk of us becoming desensitized and relying on the fall-back position of sayingldquoSomeone should do somethingrdquo
Yes someone should Are you a someone
On Reaching Out
The Friend toFriend MembershipProgram from GrandLodge promotesFreemasonry by havingfriends of Masons getto know us better
It has been developed to exhibit Masonry and its philosophy to the non-Masonic public especially those men considered to be potentialquality candidates
To start the program the first thing should be to appoint a Friend to Friend Chairman with acommittee of four to five of the Lodge memberswho are interested in the organization and executionof a Friend to Friend Event Each should view theFriend to Friend Video and review the suggestionsin the Manual which accompanies the Friend toFriend DVD The Committee should impress uponthe members of the Lodge the importance of theFriend to Friend Program to the long-term successof Freemasonry The lodge then can present a co-ordinated event or series of events to educate thepublic and possibly attract new members
Our Newest Members
Each new member to masonry comes with his own anxieties and expectations We want him to experience a positive outcome
Our Grand Lodge has many aids to accomplishthat result but most of the effect comes from theway we behave in lodge and how we associate withand instruct our candidates and members
We must be supportive and empathetic while promoting masonic doctrine and ideals
Any degree work and especially the initiationshould be memorable for the candidate
We must remember that our job is to provide himwith an experience not just a performanceAlthough we may look upon our parts as lsquoworkrsquo we must focus on communicating not justpresenting We are speaking to a brother not a witness or an audience
Here are short quotes that can be related to how a member experiences the lodge and how we can be instrumental in making his journey a positiveexperience (Pause after reading each one and apply the concept to the activity in your lodge)
What we learn with pleasure we will never forget Alfred Mercier
I am always ready to learn although I do not alwayslike being taught Sir Winston Churchill
(about criticising) Never castigate Babies learn to walk whileaccepting falling down If you beat a baby every time he falls down hersquoll never care much for walking Robert Townsend
Bear in mind that children of all ages have one thing in common they close their ears to advice and open their eyes to example
The Tablet
District Light May 2018 p2
On Retaining Members
Engagement is the key People need to feelwanted useful needed
Few things help an individual more than to place a responsibility upon him and to let himknow that you trust him Booker T Washington
No horse accomplishes anything until he isharnessed No steam or gas ever drives anythinguntil it is confines No Niagara is ever turnedinto light and power until it is tunnelled
No life ever grows great until it is focusseddedicated disciplined Harry Emerson Fosdick
Do You Lead or Manage[from a talk by Gareth Taylor]
The leader inspires the manager maintainsThe leader does right thingsrsquo the manager does
things rightThe leader is concerned with people
the manager with form and structureThe leader paints creatively the manager paints
by numbersDo you challenge the status quo or do you
accept it Are you causing others to want to do what you believe is necessary for the survival of Freemasonry
One of the bestexamples of leadershipwas immortalized inShakespearersquos Henry Vwhen King Henry rousedhis tired outnumberedtroops to fight theFrench
You can view it here or with the text here
On Having a Purpose ( Living your life)
In the animal kingdomindividuals survive longerif they are part of a group
It is the same with usLoneliness and lack ofpurpose can deplete ourenergy while friendships and associations bolsterour self-image
Our personalities and outlooks are the result ofa lifetime of reacting to the many stimuli we haveexperienced Here is a collection of quotes thatwill likely resonate with you
We act as though comfort and luxury were the chief requirements of life when all that we need to make us truly happy is something to be enthusiastic about Charles Kingsly
Live in the active voice not the passive Think more about what you make happen than about what happens to you
William Dewitt Hyde
ldquoI must do somethingrdquo will always solve moreproblems than ldquoSomething must be donerdquo
Direction is so much more important than speedMany people are going nowhere fast
Everything in your life is a reflection of a choice you have made
If you want a different result make a different choice
There are two primary choices in lifeAccept conditions as they exist or accept the responsibility of changing them
Denis Waitley
What we think or what we know or what we believe is in the end of little consequence The only consequence is what we do
John Ruskin
The highest reward for manrsquos toil is not what he gets for it but what he becomes by it
John Ruskin
Life ainrsquot for the faint of heart You have towake up each and every day and realize that youcan and will begin again It doesnrsquot matter if youhave screwed up or lost your way or made giantmistakes or failed or fallen you can always keep going forward Jann Arden
District Light May 2018 p3
Where Do You Stand
Robert Fulghum began sharing little stories andinsights in All I Really Need to Know I Learned InKindergarten See how these passages from thebook can relate to masonry
Mr Fulghum had to supervise a large group ofchildren seven to ten years old He created a gamewhich would create a lot of running and noise tochannel the kidsrsquo energy They were separated intogroups and first had to decide if they were giantswizards or dwarfs
He explains what he experienced next
While the groups huddled in frenziedconsultation a tug came at my pants leg A smallchild stood there looking up and asked in a smallconcerned voice ldquoWhere do the mermaids standrdquo
After a long pause I repeated ldquoWhere do themermaids standrdquo
ldquoYes You see I am a mermaidrdquoldquoThere are no such things as mermaidsrdquoldquoOh yes I am onerdquoShe did not relate to being a Giant a Wizard
or a Dwarf She knew her category Mermaid She was about to go over and stand against the wallwhere a loser would stand She intended toparticipate wherever Mermaids fit into the schemeof things without giving up dignity or identity She took it for granted that there was a place forMermaids and that I would know just where
Well where do the Mermaids stand ndash all thelsquoMermaidsrsquo ndash all those who are different who donot fit the norm and who do not accept theavailable boxes and pigeonholes
Answer that question and you can build a schoola nation a world on it
What was my answer at the momentEvery once in a while I say the right thingldquoThe Mermaid stands right here by the Kingof the Seardquo
So we stood there hand in hand reviewing the troops of Giants Wizards and Dwarfsas they roiled by in wilddisarray
It is not true that mermaidsdo not exist I know at least onepersonally I have held her hand
Without realizing it we fill importantplaces in each otherrsquos lives Consider theminister grocer mechanic doctor teacherneighbour co-worker ndash good people who arealways lsquotherersquo who can be relied on in smallimportant ways They teach us bless usencourage us support us and uplift us in the dailiness of life We never tell them that I donrsquot know why but we donrsquot
And of course we fill that role ourselvesThere are those who depend on us watch uslearn from us and take from us And wenever know Donrsquot sell yourself short you may never have proof of yourimportance but you are more important than you think
District Light May 2018 p4
Itrsquos Hard to Explain
Describing what I have gained from masonry is like explaining what I like in my choice ofmusic or books A person who enjoys westernmusic may not understand my appreciation of jazzSimilarly a person may not understand myattraction to science fiction literature So it isunderstandable that someone would be hesitant to accept that we benefit by our membership in masonry
Furthermore if they have any suspicion of fraternities or cults they would likely dismissour claims of wholesome growth through ourmasonic involvement
But we recognize the masonic spirit in ourbrothers and that same inner glow that we carryaffects the way we behave in the community If someone sees a character strength withing usthey may be more willing to accept the notion that masonry is and does good
Just as we preferhope to have a close family dynamic we would like masonry to become more accepted in our society
Explaining to the uninformed is difficult
The Millenial Generation
Seeking The Authentic by Todd E Creason
We arent exactly sure what to make of the millennial generation We think theyre not interested in what we have to offer We believe they would find our ritual too lsquoold fashionedrsquo and view our values as a relic left over from the long-forgotten past
But thats not true at all The millennialgeneration is searching for authenticity They are seeking authentic experiences
You can see the popularity of craft beers and home-brewing with millennials They appreciate hand-crafted items and live theatre They are seeking the real and the authentic ndash a quality some of us older guys remember but we realize that the quality has been degraded
Its not just products that millennials are seeking out to fulfill this desire for what is real and authentic They are looking forauthenticity in their life experience as well They are looking for real connections in theworld far beyond social media They arelooking for a better way to live and placeswhere they can belong--places where they can learn to become better men and they canlearn about values that will enrich their lives values that are genuine and applicable to theirdaily lives moral teachings that are authenticand time-honoured opportunities that offerthem the ability to grow as individuals as they get involved in their communities andlearn valuable skills in leadership
Is there a better description ofFreemasonry This is without question an opportunity for Freemasonry ndash but its also a challenge We have to be ready to meetthese expectations when these millennialspetition
In too many Lodges today this kind of teachingmentoring environment justdoesnt exist I know that many Masons can recall that young guy that joined their Lodge went through all three degreesseemed very enthusiastic came to a fewmeetings and then never came back It should be easy to understand why he didnt find what he expected to New member retention is a really good gauge of how your lodge is doing
Weve got to look at ourselves first What are we offering these young men What kinds of programs do we have that would appeal to them What is theirexpectation and are we prepared to meet it Are we ready to begin training and mentoringanother generation of men What do we needto do to get back to our mission of makinggood men better
It will take some effort to improve ourmessage and our delivery but it is well worthdoing We can be exactly what they arelooking for
District Light May 2018 p5
Blood Facts
Your body has around 60000 miles or 97000 kilometres of blood vessels
Blood type O is the most common blood type in the world
A drop of blood contains around 250000platelets
A man has approximately 68 liters of blood in the body while women have approximately 5 litres
The aorta has a diameter thats similar to that of a garden hose
Lips are reddish due to a large number of capillaries hidden under the skin
Your body contains enough iron to make a 3-inch nail
A simple moderately severe sunburn burns the blood vessels extensively
Womens hearts beat faster than mens
A short video explaining the components of blood can be found here
Diversions
This issue of the bulletin has presented several challenges on ways to improve our lodges Perhaps a break is in order
How much time do you need
2 minutes Rapid-fire images of Canada (here)
4 minutes The lsquoGreat Dictatorrsquo speech by Charlie Chaplin (still relelvant)( The original here or colourized here)
7 minutes Three rules to live by as explainedby Lou Holtz football coach Here
8 minutes Relax with quiet electronic music andwatch a captivating unworldly video Here
18 minutes Gershwinrsquos Rhapsody in Blue here
45 minutes the importance of the Spitfire aircraft to Britain during WW2 here
Be Prepared
Scouts and Guides prepare for eventualities by carryingthe tools they will need byhaving a first-aid kit and by being aware of theirsurroundings
Adults do the same We insure ourpossessions practice situational awareness and stock supplies in preparation for survivalafter a possible disaster
The slogan lsquoBe Preparedrsquo encompasses that attitude but is vague A more practical motto is the metaphor
ldquoBuy a plunger before you need a plungerrdquo
Explaining the value and significance of masonry to a possibly sceptical person might be made easier by comparing it to Scouting The Boy Scout movement is respected The 12 points of the Scout Law embody noteworthy social values which can be compared to the moral principles of masonry
This chart is based on information from the Boy Scout Handbook The masonic equivalents are provided by Gregory J Knott
A Scout is In Scouting In Masonry
Trustworthy A Scout tells the truth He is honest and hekeeps his promises People can depend on him
A Mason is a true and trusty brother His bond is his word and his brothers can count on him
Loyal A Scout is true to his family friends Scoutleaders school and nation
A Mason has a duty to God his countryfamily friends neighbours and himself
Helpful A Scout cares about other people He willingly volunteers to help others without expecting payment or reward
A Mason practices faith hope and charity
Friendly A Scout is a friend to all He is a brother to other Scouts He offers his friendship to people of all races and nations and respectsthem even if their beliefs and customs aredifferent from his own
A Mason is always ready to extend hishand in friendship to a fellow MasonA masonrsquos lodge accepts all races andfaiths
Courteous A Scout is polite to everyone regardless of ageor position He knows that using good mannersmakes it easier for people to get along
Mason exemplifies a demeanor of respecttowards his brothers
Kind A Scout knows there is strength in beinggentle He treats others as he wants to betreated Without good reason he does notharm or kill any living thing
A Mason shows brotherly love to hisbrothers and may gently correct their errant ways
Obedient A Scout follows the rules of his family schooland troop He obeys the laws of his communityand country If he thinks these rules and lawsare unfair he tries to have them changed in anorderly manner rather than disobeying them
A Mason is loyal to his country respects the rule of law and squares his actions by the square of virtue
Cheerful A Scout looks for the bright side of life He cheerfully does tasks that come his way He tries to make others happy
A Mason greets a fellow brother with a smile a firm handshake and a greeting
Thrifty A Scout works to pay his own way and to help others He saves for the future He protects and conserves natural resourcesHe carefully uses time and property
A Mason thrives to preserve the ancientusages and customs of the fraternity
Brave A Scout can face danger although he is afraidHe has the courage to stand for what he thinksis right even if others laugh at him or threatenhim
A Mason understands that wisdomstrength and beauty are the pillars of a well-governed lodge
Clean A Scout keeps his body and mind fit and cleanHe chooses the company of those who live by high standards He helps keep his home and community clean
A Mason is pure in thought words and deeds
Reverent A Scout is reverent toward God He is faithful in his religious duties He respects the beliefs of others
A Mason has a belief in God living his lifeby that Great Book and seeks the blessing of deity
District Light May 2018 p2
On Retaining Members
Engagement is the key People need to feelwanted useful needed
Few things help an individual more than to place a responsibility upon him and to let himknow that you trust him Booker T Washington
No horse accomplishes anything until he isharnessed No steam or gas ever drives anythinguntil it is confines No Niagara is ever turnedinto light and power until it is tunnelled
No life ever grows great until it is focusseddedicated disciplined Harry Emerson Fosdick
Do You Lead or Manage[from a talk by Gareth Taylor]
The leader inspires the manager maintainsThe leader does right thingsrsquo the manager does
things rightThe leader is concerned with people
the manager with form and structureThe leader paints creatively the manager paints
by numbersDo you challenge the status quo or do you
accept it Are you causing others to want to do what you believe is necessary for the survival of Freemasonry
One of the bestexamples of leadershipwas immortalized inShakespearersquos Henry Vwhen King Henry rousedhis tired outnumberedtroops to fight theFrench
You can view it here or with the text here
On Having a Purpose ( Living your life)
In the animal kingdomindividuals survive longerif they are part of a group
It is the same with usLoneliness and lack ofpurpose can deplete ourenergy while friendships and associations bolsterour self-image
Our personalities and outlooks are the result ofa lifetime of reacting to the many stimuli we haveexperienced Here is a collection of quotes thatwill likely resonate with you
We act as though comfort and luxury were the chief requirements of life when all that we need to make us truly happy is something to be enthusiastic about Charles Kingsly
Live in the active voice not the passive Think more about what you make happen than about what happens to you
William Dewitt Hyde
ldquoI must do somethingrdquo will always solve moreproblems than ldquoSomething must be donerdquo
Direction is so much more important than speedMany people are going nowhere fast
Everything in your life is a reflection of a choice you have made
If you want a different result make a different choice
There are two primary choices in lifeAccept conditions as they exist or accept the responsibility of changing them
Denis Waitley
What we think or what we know or what we believe is in the end of little consequence The only consequence is what we do
John Ruskin
The highest reward for manrsquos toil is not what he gets for it but what he becomes by it
John Ruskin
Life ainrsquot for the faint of heart You have towake up each and every day and realize that youcan and will begin again It doesnrsquot matter if youhave screwed up or lost your way or made giantmistakes or failed or fallen you can always keep going forward Jann Arden
District Light May 2018 p3
Where Do You Stand
Robert Fulghum began sharing little stories andinsights in All I Really Need to Know I Learned InKindergarten See how these passages from thebook can relate to masonry
Mr Fulghum had to supervise a large group ofchildren seven to ten years old He created a gamewhich would create a lot of running and noise tochannel the kidsrsquo energy They were separated intogroups and first had to decide if they were giantswizards or dwarfs
He explains what he experienced next
While the groups huddled in frenziedconsultation a tug came at my pants leg A smallchild stood there looking up and asked in a smallconcerned voice ldquoWhere do the mermaids standrdquo
After a long pause I repeated ldquoWhere do themermaids standrdquo
ldquoYes You see I am a mermaidrdquoldquoThere are no such things as mermaidsrdquoldquoOh yes I am onerdquoShe did not relate to being a Giant a Wizard
or a Dwarf She knew her category Mermaid She was about to go over and stand against the wallwhere a loser would stand She intended toparticipate wherever Mermaids fit into the schemeof things without giving up dignity or identity She took it for granted that there was a place forMermaids and that I would know just where
Well where do the Mermaids stand ndash all thelsquoMermaidsrsquo ndash all those who are different who donot fit the norm and who do not accept theavailable boxes and pigeonholes
Answer that question and you can build a schoola nation a world on it
What was my answer at the momentEvery once in a while I say the right thingldquoThe Mermaid stands right here by the Kingof the Seardquo
So we stood there hand in hand reviewing the troops of Giants Wizards and Dwarfsas they roiled by in wilddisarray
It is not true that mermaidsdo not exist I know at least onepersonally I have held her hand
Without realizing it we fill importantplaces in each otherrsquos lives Consider theminister grocer mechanic doctor teacherneighbour co-worker ndash good people who arealways lsquotherersquo who can be relied on in smallimportant ways They teach us bless usencourage us support us and uplift us in the dailiness of life We never tell them that I donrsquot know why but we donrsquot
And of course we fill that role ourselvesThere are those who depend on us watch uslearn from us and take from us And wenever know Donrsquot sell yourself short you may never have proof of yourimportance but you are more important than you think
District Light May 2018 p4
Itrsquos Hard to Explain
Describing what I have gained from masonry is like explaining what I like in my choice ofmusic or books A person who enjoys westernmusic may not understand my appreciation of jazzSimilarly a person may not understand myattraction to science fiction literature So it isunderstandable that someone would be hesitant to accept that we benefit by our membership in masonry
Furthermore if they have any suspicion of fraternities or cults they would likely dismissour claims of wholesome growth through ourmasonic involvement
But we recognize the masonic spirit in ourbrothers and that same inner glow that we carryaffects the way we behave in the community If someone sees a character strength withing usthey may be more willing to accept the notion that masonry is and does good
Just as we preferhope to have a close family dynamic we would like masonry to become more accepted in our society
Explaining to the uninformed is difficult
The Millenial Generation
Seeking The Authentic by Todd E Creason
We arent exactly sure what to make of the millennial generation We think theyre not interested in what we have to offer We believe they would find our ritual too lsquoold fashionedrsquo and view our values as a relic left over from the long-forgotten past
But thats not true at all The millennialgeneration is searching for authenticity They are seeking authentic experiences
You can see the popularity of craft beers and home-brewing with millennials They appreciate hand-crafted items and live theatre They are seeking the real and the authentic ndash a quality some of us older guys remember but we realize that the quality has been degraded
Its not just products that millennials are seeking out to fulfill this desire for what is real and authentic They are looking forauthenticity in their life experience as well They are looking for real connections in theworld far beyond social media They arelooking for a better way to live and placeswhere they can belong--places where they can learn to become better men and they canlearn about values that will enrich their lives values that are genuine and applicable to theirdaily lives moral teachings that are authenticand time-honoured opportunities that offerthem the ability to grow as individuals as they get involved in their communities andlearn valuable skills in leadership
Is there a better description ofFreemasonry This is without question an opportunity for Freemasonry ndash but its also a challenge We have to be ready to meetthese expectations when these millennialspetition
In too many Lodges today this kind of teachingmentoring environment justdoesnt exist I know that many Masons can recall that young guy that joined their Lodge went through all three degreesseemed very enthusiastic came to a fewmeetings and then never came back It should be easy to understand why he didnt find what he expected to New member retention is a really good gauge of how your lodge is doing
Weve got to look at ourselves first What are we offering these young men What kinds of programs do we have that would appeal to them What is theirexpectation and are we prepared to meet it Are we ready to begin training and mentoringanother generation of men What do we needto do to get back to our mission of makinggood men better
It will take some effort to improve ourmessage and our delivery but it is well worthdoing We can be exactly what they arelooking for
District Light May 2018 p5
Blood Facts
Your body has around 60000 miles or 97000 kilometres of blood vessels
Blood type O is the most common blood type in the world
A drop of blood contains around 250000platelets
A man has approximately 68 liters of blood in the body while women have approximately 5 litres
The aorta has a diameter thats similar to that of a garden hose
Lips are reddish due to a large number of capillaries hidden under the skin
Your body contains enough iron to make a 3-inch nail
A simple moderately severe sunburn burns the blood vessels extensively
Womens hearts beat faster than mens
A short video explaining the components of blood can be found here
Diversions
This issue of the bulletin has presented several challenges on ways to improve our lodges Perhaps a break is in order
How much time do you need
2 minutes Rapid-fire images of Canada (here)
4 minutes The lsquoGreat Dictatorrsquo speech by Charlie Chaplin (still relelvant)( The original here or colourized here)
7 minutes Three rules to live by as explainedby Lou Holtz football coach Here
8 minutes Relax with quiet electronic music andwatch a captivating unworldly video Here
18 minutes Gershwinrsquos Rhapsody in Blue here
45 minutes the importance of the Spitfire aircraft to Britain during WW2 here
Be Prepared
Scouts and Guides prepare for eventualities by carryingthe tools they will need byhaving a first-aid kit and by being aware of theirsurroundings
Adults do the same We insure ourpossessions practice situational awareness and stock supplies in preparation for survivalafter a possible disaster
The slogan lsquoBe Preparedrsquo encompasses that attitude but is vague A more practical motto is the metaphor
ldquoBuy a plunger before you need a plungerrdquo
Explaining the value and significance of masonry to a possibly sceptical person might be made easier by comparing it to Scouting The Boy Scout movement is respected The 12 points of the Scout Law embody noteworthy social values which can be compared to the moral principles of masonry
This chart is based on information from the Boy Scout Handbook The masonic equivalents are provided by Gregory J Knott
A Scout is In Scouting In Masonry
Trustworthy A Scout tells the truth He is honest and hekeeps his promises People can depend on him
A Mason is a true and trusty brother His bond is his word and his brothers can count on him
Loyal A Scout is true to his family friends Scoutleaders school and nation
A Mason has a duty to God his countryfamily friends neighbours and himself
Helpful A Scout cares about other people He willingly volunteers to help others without expecting payment or reward
A Mason practices faith hope and charity
Friendly A Scout is a friend to all He is a brother to other Scouts He offers his friendship to people of all races and nations and respectsthem even if their beliefs and customs aredifferent from his own
A Mason is always ready to extend hishand in friendship to a fellow MasonA masonrsquos lodge accepts all races andfaiths
Courteous A Scout is polite to everyone regardless of ageor position He knows that using good mannersmakes it easier for people to get along
Mason exemplifies a demeanor of respecttowards his brothers
Kind A Scout knows there is strength in beinggentle He treats others as he wants to betreated Without good reason he does notharm or kill any living thing
A Mason shows brotherly love to hisbrothers and may gently correct their errant ways
Obedient A Scout follows the rules of his family schooland troop He obeys the laws of his communityand country If he thinks these rules and lawsare unfair he tries to have them changed in anorderly manner rather than disobeying them
A Mason is loyal to his country respects the rule of law and squares his actions by the square of virtue
Cheerful A Scout looks for the bright side of life He cheerfully does tasks that come his way He tries to make others happy
A Mason greets a fellow brother with a smile a firm handshake and a greeting
Thrifty A Scout works to pay his own way and to help others He saves for the future He protects and conserves natural resourcesHe carefully uses time and property
A Mason thrives to preserve the ancientusages and customs of the fraternity
Brave A Scout can face danger although he is afraidHe has the courage to stand for what he thinksis right even if others laugh at him or threatenhim
A Mason understands that wisdomstrength and beauty are the pillars of a well-governed lodge
Clean A Scout keeps his body and mind fit and cleanHe chooses the company of those who live by high standards He helps keep his home and community clean
A Mason is pure in thought words and deeds
Reverent A Scout is reverent toward God He is faithful in his religious duties He respects the beliefs of others
A Mason has a belief in God living his lifeby that Great Book and seeks the blessing of deity
District Light May 2018 p3
Where Do You Stand
Robert Fulghum began sharing little stories andinsights in All I Really Need to Know I Learned InKindergarten See how these passages from thebook can relate to masonry
Mr Fulghum had to supervise a large group ofchildren seven to ten years old He created a gamewhich would create a lot of running and noise tochannel the kidsrsquo energy They were separated intogroups and first had to decide if they were giantswizards or dwarfs
He explains what he experienced next
While the groups huddled in frenziedconsultation a tug came at my pants leg A smallchild stood there looking up and asked in a smallconcerned voice ldquoWhere do the mermaids standrdquo
After a long pause I repeated ldquoWhere do themermaids standrdquo
ldquoYes You see I am a mermaidrdquoldquoThere are no such things as mermaidsrdquoldquoOh yes I am onerdquoShe did not relate to being a Giant a Wizard
or a Dwarf She knew her category Mermaid She was about to go over and stand against the wallwhere a loser would stand She intended toparticipate wherever Mermaids fit into the schemeof things without giving up dignity or identity She took it for granted that there was a place forMermaids and that I would know just where
Well where do the Mermaids stand ndash all thelsquoMermaidsrsquo ndash all those who are different who donot fit the norm and who do not accept theavailable boxes and pigeonholes
Answer that question and you can build a schoola nation a world on it
What was my answer at the momentEvery once in a while I say the right thingldquoThe Mermaid stands right here by the Kingof the Seardquo
So we stood there hand in hand reviewing the troops of Giants Wizards and Dwarfsas they roiled by in wilddisarray
It is not true that mermaidsdo not exist I know at least onepersonally I have held her hand
Without realizing it we fill importantplaces in each otherrsquos lives Consider theminister grocer mechanic doctor teacherneighbour co-worker ndash good people who arealways lsquotherersquo who can be relied on in smallimportant ways They teach us bless usencourage us support us and uplift us in the dailiness of life We never tell them that I donrsquot know why but we donrsquot
And of course we fill that role ourselvesThere are those who depend on us watch uslearn from us and take from us And wenever know Donrsquot sell yourself short you may never have proof of yourimportance but you are more important than you think
District Light May 2018 p4
Itrsquos Hard to Explain
Describing what I have gained from masonry is like explaining what I like in my choice ofmusic or books A person who enjoys westernmusic may not understand my appreciation of jazzSimilarly a person may not understand myattraction to science fiction literature So it isunderstandable that someone would be hesitant to accept that we benefit by our membership in masonry
Furthermore if they have any suspicion of fraternities or cults they would likely dismissour claims of wholesome growth through ourmasonic involvement
But we recognize the masonic spirit in ourbrothers and that same inner glow that we carryaffects the way we behave in the community If someone sees a character strength withing usthey may be more willing to accept the notion that masonry is and does good
Just as we preferhope to have a close family dynamic we would like masonry to become more accepted in our society
Explaining to the uninformed is difficult
The Millenial Generation
Seeking The Authentic by Todd E Creason
We arent exactly sure what to make of the millennial generation We think theyre not interested in what we have to offer We believe they would find our ritual too lsquoold fashionedrsquo and view our values as a relic left over from the long-forgotten past
But thats not true at all The millennialgeneration is searching for authenticity They are seeking authentic experiences
You can see the popularity of craft beers and home-brewing with millennials They appreciate hand-crafted items and live theatre They are seeking the real and the authentic ndash a quality some of us older guys remember but we realize that the quality has been degraded
Its not just products that millennials are seeking out to fulfill this desire for what is real and authentic They are looking forauthenticity in their life experience as well They are looking for real connections in theworld far beyond social media They arelooking for a better way to live and placeswhere they can belong--places where they can learn to become better men and they canlearn about values that will enrich their lives values that are genuine and applicable to theirdaily lives moral teachings that are authenticand time-honoured opportunities that offerthem the ability to grow as individuals as they get involved in their communities andlearn valuable skills in leadership
Is there a better description ofFreemasonry This is without question an opportunity for Freemasonry ndash but its also a challenge We have to be ready to meetthese expectations when these millennialspetition
In too many Lodges today this kind of teachingmentoring environment justdoesnt exist I know that many Masons can recall that young guy that joined their Lodge went through all three degreesseemed very enthusiastic came to a fewmeetings and then never came back It should be easy to understand why he didnt find what he expected to New member retention is a really good gauge of how your lodge is doing
Weve got to look at ourselves first What are we offering these young men What kinds of programs do we have that would appeal to them What is theirexpectation and are we prepared to meet it Are we ready to begin training and mentoringanother generation of men What do we needto do to get back to our mission of makinggood men better
It will take some effort to improve ourmessage and our delivery but it is well worthdoing We can be exactly what they arelooking for
District Light May 2018 p5
Blood Facts
Your body has around 60000 miles or 97000 kilometres of blood vessels
Blood type O is the most common blood type in the world
A drop of blood contains around 250000platelets
A man has approximately 68 liters of blood in the body while women have approximately 5 litres
The aorta has a diameter thats similar to that of a garden hose
Lips are reddish due to a large number of capillaries hidden under the skin
Your body contains enough iron to make a 3-inch nail
A simple moderately severe sunburn burns the blood vessels extensively
Womens hearts beat faster than mens
A short video explaining the components of blood can be found here
Diversions
This issue of the bulletin has presented several challenges on ways to improve our lodges Perhaps a break is in order
How much time do you need
2 minutes Rapid-fire images of Canada (here)
4 minutes The lsquoGreat Dictatorrsquo speech by Charlie Chaplin (still relelvant)( The original here or colourized here)
7 minutes Three rules to live by as explainedby Lou Holtz football coach Here
8 minutes Relax with quiet electronic music andwatch a captivating unworldly video Here
18 minutes Gershwinrsquos Rhapsody in Blue here
45 minutes the importance of the Spitfire aircraft to Britain during WW2 here
Be Prepared
Scouts and Guides prepare for eventualities by carryingthe tools they will need byhaving a first-aid kit and by being aware of theirsurroundings
Adults do the same We insure ourpossessions practice situational awareness and stock supplies in preparation for survivalafter a possible disaster
The slogan lsquoBe Preparedrsquo encompasses that attitude but is vague A more practical motto is the metaphor
ldquoBuy a plunger before you need a plungerrdquo
Explaining the value and significance of masonry to a possibly sceptical person might be made easier by comparing it to Scouting The Boy Scout movement is respected The 12 points of the Scout Law embody noteworthy social values which can be compared to the moral principles of masonry
This chart is based on information from the Boy Scout Handbook The masonic equivalents are provided by Gregory J Knott
A Scout is In Scouting In Masonry
Trustworthy A Scout tells the truth He is honest and hekeeps his promises People can depend on him
A Mason is a true and trusty brother His bond is his word and his brothers can count on him
Loyal A Scout is true to his family friends Scoutleaders school and nation
A Mason has a duty to God his countryfamily friends neighbours and himself
Helpful A Scout cares about other people He willingly volunteers to help others without expecting payment or reward
A Mason practices faith hope and charity
Friendly A Scout is a friend to all He is a brother to other Scouts He offers his friendship to people of all races and nations and respectsthem even if their beliefs and customs aredifferent from his own
A Mason is always ready to extend hishand in friendship to a fellow MasonA masonrsquos lodge accepts all races andfaiths
Courteous A Scout is polite to everyone regardless of ageor position He knows that using good mannersmakes it easier for people to get along
Mason exemplifies a demeanor of respecttowards his brothers
Kind A Scout knows there is strength in beinggentle He treats others as he wants to betreated Without good reason he does notharm or kill any living thing
A Mason shows brotherly love to hisbrothers and may gently correct their errant ways
Obedient A Scout follows the rules of his family schooland troop He obeys the laws of his communityand country If he thinks these rules and lawsare unfair he tries to have them changed in anorderly manner rather than disobeying them
A Mason is loyal to his country respects the rule of law and squares his actions by the square of virtue
Cheerful A Scout looks for the bright side of life He cheerfully does tasks that come his way He tries to make others happy
A Mason greets a fellow brother with a smile a firm handshake and a greeting
Thrifty A Scout works to pay his own way and to help others He saves for the future He protects and conserves natural resourcesHe carefully uses time and property
A Mason thrives to preserve the ancientusages and customs of the fraternity
Brave A Scout can face danger although he is afraidHe has the courage to stand for what he thinksis right even if others laugh at him or threatenhim
A Mason understands that wisdomstrength and beauty are the pillars of a well-governed lodge
Clean A Scout keeps his body and mind fit and cleanHe chooses the company of those who live by high standards He helps keep his home and community clean
A Mason is pure in thought words and deeds
Reverent A Scout is reverent toward God He is faithful in his religious duties He respects the beliefs of others
A Mason has a belief in God living his lifeby that Great Book and seeks the blessing of deity
District Light May 2018 p4
Itrsquos Hard to Explain
Describing what I have gained from masonry is like explaining what I like in my choice ofmusic or books A person who enjoys westernmusic may not understand my appreciation of jazzSimilarly a person may not understand myattraction to science fiction literature So it isunderstandable that someone would be hesitant to accept that we benefit by our membership in masonry
Furthermore if they have any suspicion of fraternities or cults they would likely dismissour claims of wholesome growth through ourmasonic involvement
But we recognize the masonic spirit in ourbrothers and that same inner glow that we carryaffects the way we behave in the community If someone sees a character strength withing usthey may be more willing to accept the notion that masonry is and does good
Just as we preferhope to have a close family dynamic we would like masonry to become more accepted in our society
Explaining to the uninformed is difficult
The Millenial Generation
Seeking The Authentic by Todd E Creason
We arent exactly sure what to make of the millennial generation We think theyre not interested in what we have to offer We believe they would find our ritual too lsquoold fashionedrsquo and view our values as a relic left over from the long-forgotten past
But thats not true at all The millennialgeneration is searching for authenticity They are seeking authentic experiences
You can see the popularity of craft beers and home-brewing with millennials They appreciate hand-crafted items and live theatre They are seeking the real and the authentic ndash a quality some of us older guys remember but we realize that the quality has been degraded
Its not just products that millennials are seeking out to fulfill this desire for what is real and authentic They are looking forauthenticity in their life experience as well They are looking for real connections in theworld far beyond social media They arelooking for a better way to live and placeswhere they can belong--places where they can learn to become better men and they canlearn about values that will enrich their lives values that are genuine and applicable to theirdaily lives moral teachings that are authenticand time-honoured opportunities that offerthem the ability to grow as individuals as they get involved in their communities andlearn valuable skills in leadership
Is there a better description ofFreemasonry This is without question an opportunity for Freemasonry ndash but its also a challenge We have to be ready to meetthese expectations when these millennialspetition
In too many Lodges today this kind of teachingmentoring environment justdoesnt exist I know that many Masons can recall that young guy that joined their Lodge went through all three degreesseemed very enthusiastic came to a fewmeetings and then never came back It should be easy to understand why he didnt find what he expected to New member retention is a really good gauge of how your lodge is doing
Weve got to look at ourselves first What are we offering these young men What kinds of programs do we have that would appeal to them What is theirexpectation and are we prepared to meet it Are we ready to begin training and mentoringanother generation of men What do we needto do to get back to our mission of makinggood men better
It will take some effort to improve ourmessage and our delivery but it is well worthdoing We can be exactly what they arelooking for
District Light May 2018 p5
Blood Facts
Your body has around 60000 miles or 97000 kilometres of blood vessels
Blood type O is the most common blood type in the world
A drop of blood contains around 250000platelets
A man has approximately 68 liters of blood in the body while women have approximately 5 litres
The aorta has a diameter thats similar to that of a garden hose
Lips are reddish due to a large number of capillaries hidden under the skin
Your body contains enough iron to make a 3-inch nail
A simple moderately severe sunburn burns the blood vessels extensively
Womens hearts beat faster than mens
A short video explaining the components of blood can be found here
Diversions
This issue of the bulletin has presented several challenges on ways to improve our lodges Perhaps a break is in order
How much time do you need
2 minutes Rapid-fire images of Canada (here)
4 minutes The lsquoGreat Dictatorrsquo speech by Charlie Chaplin (still relelvant)( The original here or colourized here)
7 minutes Three rules to live by as explainedby Lou Holtz football coach Here
8 minutes Relax with quiet electronic music andwatch a captivating unworldly video Here
18 minutes Gershwinrsquos Rhapsody in Blue here
45 minutes the importance of the Spitfire aircraft to Britain during WW2 here
Be Prepared
Scouts and Guides prepare for eventualities by carryingthe tools they will need byhaving a first-aid kit and by being aware of theirsurroundings
Adults do the same We insure ourpossessions practice situational awareness and stock supplies in preparation for survivalafter a possible disaster
The slogan lsquoBe Preparedrsquo encompasses that attitude but is vague A more practical motto is the metaphor
ldquoBuy a plunger before you need a plungerrdquo
Explaining the value and significance of masonry to a possibly sceptical person might be made easier by comparing it to Scouting The Boy Scout movement is respected The 12 points of the Scout Law embody noteworthy social values which can be compared to the moral principles of masonry
This chart is based on information from the Boy Scout Handbook The masonic equivalents are provided by Gregory J Knott
A Scout is In Scouting In Masonry
Trustworthy A Scout tells the truth He is honest and hekeeps his promises People can depend on him
A Mason is a true and trusty brother His bond is his word and his brothers can count on him
Loyal A Scout is true to his family friends Scoutleaders school and nation
A Mason has a duty to God his countryfamily friends neighbours and himself
Helpful A Scout cares about other people He willingly volunteers to help others without expecting payment or reward
A Mason practices faith hope and charity
Friendly A Scout is a friend to all He is a brother to other Scouts He offers his friendship to people of all races and nations and respectsthem even if their beliefs and customs aredifferent from his own
A Mason is always ready to extend hishand in friendship to a fellow MasonA masonrsquos lodge accepts all races andfaiths
Courteous A Scout is polite to everyone regardless of ageor position He knows that using good mannersmakes it easier for people to get along
Mason exemplifies a demeanor of respecttowards his brothers
Kind A Scout knows there is strength in beinggentle He treats others as he wants to betreated Without good reason he does notharm or kill any living thing
A Mason shows brotherly love to hisbrothers and may gently correct their errant ways
Obedient A Scout follows the rules of his family schooland troop He obeys the laws of his communityand country If he thinks these rules and lawsare unfair he tries to have them changed in anorderly manner rather than disobeying them
A Mason is loyal to his country respects the rule of law and squares his actions by the square of virtue
Cheerful A Scout looks for the bright side of life He cheerfully does tasks that come his way He tries to make others happy
A Mason greets a fellow brother with a smile a firm handshake and a greeting
Thrifty A Scout works to pay his own way and to help others He saves for the future He protects and conserves natural resourcesHe carefully uses time and property
A Mason thrives to preserve the ancientusages and customs of the fraternity
Brave A Scout can face danger although he is afraidHe has the courage to stand for what he thinksis right even if others laugh at him or threatenhim
A Mason understands that wisdomstrength and beauty are the pillars of a well-governed lodge
Clean A Scout keeps his body and mind fit and cleanHe chooses the company of those who live by high standards He helps keep his home and community clean
A Mason is pure in thought words and deeds
Reverent A Scout is reverent toward God He is faithful in his religious duties He respects the beliefs of others
A Mason has a belief in God living his lifeby that Great Book and seeks the blessing of deity
District Light May 2018 p5
Blood Facts
Your body has around 60000 miles or 97000 kilometres of blood vessels
Blood type O is the most common blood type in the world
A drop of blood contains around 250000platelets
A man has approximately 68 liters of blood in the body while women have approximately 5 litres
The aorta has a diameter thats similar to that of a garden hose
Lips are reddish due to a large number of capillaries hidden under the skin
Your body contains enough iron to make a 3-inch nail
A simple moderately severe sunburn burns the blood vessels extensively
Womens hearts beat faster than mens
A short video explaining the components of blood can be found here
Diversions
This issue of the bulletin has presented several challenges on ways to improve our lodges Perhaps a break is in order
How much time do you need
2 minutes Rapid-fire images of Canada (here)
4 minutes The lsquoGreat Dictatorrsquo speech by Charlie Chaplin (still relelvant)( The original here or colourized here)
7 minutes Three rules to live by as explainedby Lou Holtz football coach Here
8 minutes Relax with quiet electronic music andwatch a captivating unworldly video Here
18 minutes Gershwinrsquos Rhapsody in Blue here
45 minutes the importance of the Spitfire aircraft to Britain during WW2 here
Be Prepared
Scouts and Guides prepare for eventualities by carryingthe tools they will need byhaving a first-aid kit and by being aware of theirsurroundings
Adults do the same We insure ourpossessions practice situational awareness and stock supplies in preparation for survivalafter a possible disaster
The slogan lsquoBe Preparedrsquo encompasses that attitude but is vague A more practical motto is the metaphor
ldquoBuy a plunger before you need a plungerrdquo
Explaining the value and significance of masonry to a possibly sceptical person might be made easier by comparing it to Scouting The Boy Scout movement is respected The 12 points of the Scout Law embody noteworthy social values which can be compared to the moral principles of masonry
This chart is based on information from the Boy Scout Handbook The masonic equivalents are provided by Gregory J Knott
A Scout is In Scouting In Masonry
Trustworthy A Scout tells the truth He is honest and hekeeps his promises People can depend on him
A Mason is a true and trusty brother His bond is his word and his brothers can count on him
Loyal A Scout is true to his family friends Scoutleaders school and nation
A Mason has a duty to God his countryfamily friends neighbours and himself
Helpful A Scout cares about other people He willingly volunteers to help others without expecting payment or reward
A Mason practices faith hope and charity
Friendly A Scout is a friend to all He is a brother to other Scouts He offers his friendship to people of all races and nations and respectsthem even if their beliefs and customs aredifferent from his own
A Mason is always ready to extend hishand in friendship to a fellow MasonA masonrsquos lodge accepts all races andfaiths
Courteous A Scout is polite to everyone regardless of ageor position He knows that using good mannersmakes it easier for people to get along
Mason exemplifies a demeanor of respecttowards his brothers
Kind A Scout knows there is strength in beinggentle He treats others as he wants to betreated Without good reason he does notharm or kill any living thing
A Mason shows brotherly love to hisbrothers and may gently correct their errant ways
Obedient A Scout follows the rules of his family schooland troop He obeys the laws of his communityand country If he thinks these rules and lawsare unfair he tries to have them changed in anorderly manner rather than disobeying them
A Mason is loyal to his country respects the rule of law and squares his actions by the square of virtue
Cheerful A Scout looks for the bright side of life He cheerfully does tasks that come his way He tries to make others happy
A Mason greets a fellow brother with a smile a firm handshake and a greeting
Thrifty A Scout works to pay his own way and to help others He saves for the future He protects and conserves natural resourcesHe carefully uses time and property
A Mason thrives to preserve the ancientusages and customs of the fraternity
Brave A Scout can face danger although he is afraidHe has the courage to stand for what he thinksis right even if others laugh at him or threatenhim
A Mason understands that wisdomstrength and beauty are the pillars of a well-governed lodge
Clean A Scout keeps his body and mind fit and cleanHe chooses the company of those who live by high standards He helps keep his home and community clean
A Mason is pure in thought words and deeds
Reverent A Scout is reverent toward God He is faithful in his religious duties He respects the beliefs of others
A Mason has a belief in God living his lifeby that Great Book and seeks the blessing of deity
Explaining the value and significance of masonry to a possibly sceptical person might be made easier by comparing it to Scouting The Boy Scout movement is respected The 12 points of the Scout Law embody noteworthy social values which can be compared to the moral principles of masonry
This chart is based on information from the Boy Scout Handbook The masonic equivalents are provided by Gregory J Knott
A Scout is In Scouting In Masonry
Trustworthy A Scout tells the truth He is honest and hekeeps his promises People can depend on him
A Mason is a true and trusty brother His bond is his word and his brothers can count on him
Loyal A Scout is true to his family friends Scoutleaders school and nation
A Mason has a duty to God his countryfamily friends neighbours and himself
Helpful A Scout cares about other people He willingly volunteers to help others without expecting payment or reward
A Mason practices faith hope and charity
Friendly A Scout is a friend to all He is a brother to other Scouts He offers his friendship to people of all races and nations and respectsthem even if their beliefs and customs aredifferent from his own
A Mason is always ready to extend hishand in friendship to a fellow MasonA masonrsquos lodge accepts all races andfaiths
Courteous A Scout is polite to everyone regardless of ageor position He knows that using good mannersmakes it easier for people to get along
Mason exemplifies a demeanor of respecttowards his brothers
Kind A Scout knows there is strength in beinggentle He treats others as he wants to betreated Without good reason he does notharm or kill any living thing
A Mason shows brotherly love to hisbrothers and may gently correct their errant ways
Obedient A Scout follows the rules of his family schooland troop He obeys the laws of his communityand country If he thinks these rules and lawsare unfair he tries to have them changed in anorderly manner rather than disobeying them
A Mason is loyal to his country respects the rule of law and squares his actions by the square of virtue
Cheerful A Scout looks for the bright side of life He cheerfully does tasks that come his way He tries to make others happy
A Mason greets a fellow brother with a smile a firm handshake and a greeting
Thrifty A Scout works to pay his own way and to help others He saves for the future He protects and conserves natural resourcesHe carefully uses time and property
A Mason thrives to preserve the ancientusages and customs of the fraternity
Brave A Scout can face danger although he is afraidHe has the courage to stand for what he thinksis right even if others laugh at him or threatenhim
A Mason understands that wisdomstrength and beauty are the pillars of a well-governed lodge
Clean A Scout keeps his body and mind fit and cleanHe chooses the company of those who live by high standards He helps keep his home and community clean
A Mason is pure in thought words and deeds
Reverent A Scout is reverent toward God He is faithful in his religious duties He respects the beliefs of others
A Mason has a belief in God living his lifeby that Great Book and seeks the blessing of deity
