A workman from the Temple was carrying his tools to a new worksite. On
his way, he passed by Grand Master Hiram Abif, who was seated at his trestleboard and drawing designs.
Spotting the Grand Master alone and sensing an opportunity to question the Grand Master, he came to him and said, “Master Hiram, ever since I was made a Mason, I have followed the instructions of our ritual. I have spent my leisure hours conversing with learned brethren. I have spoken with the older Masons. I have spoken with the officers. I have spoken with the Worshipful Master. I have spoken with the Past Masters. Yet still I do not understand. What am I to do?”
Without looking up from his work, Hiram said, “Set your tools down for a moment.”
The Mason set down his tools and said, “Thank you, Grand Master! These
are heavy and I have been carrying them for a long while to a site of new construction for the Temple and it is so hot today.”
Without looking up from his work, Hiram said, “Have a seat under that tree for a moment.”
The Mason sat and said, “Thank you again, Grand Master! It feels so nice to take a break from the work here in the shade. I am weary and, as I said, my mind has been struggling with the meaning of our ritual. Can you help me?”
Without looking up from his work, Hiram said, “Be quiet for a moment.”
And the Mason was quiet.