Grand Master Hiram Abif's lectures were attended not only by Masons but also by persons of all crafts and trades. He never quoted scripture at length or went on and on with sophisticated arguments. Instead, his words were spoken directly from his heart to the hearts of his listeners.
His large audience angered a young teacher of woodcraft because his students had left to hear about Masonry. The self-centered teacher came to the lodge, determined to have a debate with Hiram.
"Hey, Master Mason!" he called out. "Wait a minute. Whoever respects you will obey what you say, but a man like myself does not respect you. Can you make me obey you?"
"Come up beside me and I will show you," said Hiram.
Proudly the teacher pushed his way through the crowd.
Hiram said. "And please come over to my left side."
The teacher did just that.
"No," said Hiram, "perhaps we could talk better if you are on the right. Please step over here."
The teacher resolutely strode over to Hiram’s right side.
"Well now," said Hiram, "you are obeying me after all, and I think you are really a very good person. Now please sit down and listen."