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Early in our Masonic life we are told that it is founded on three great principles. Can any of our newer Brethren tell what those three great principles are? Thank you Bro......... you are quite right - they are BROTHERLY LOVE, RELIEF AND TRUTH. You notice I never direct any of these questions to our older, more experienced Brethren - perhaps I don't want to embarrass them.
It is all very well to learn what these three great principles are but doe it help us if we do not look around, not only at the Lodge but also at ourselves, and subjectively consider if we are actually putting these three great principles into practice.
Having directed the original question to the new Brethren, I now ask all Brethren present, if we are in fact practising BROTHERLY LOVE, RELIEF AND TRUTH?
BROTHERLY LOVE
Do we greet all the Brethren when we come to the ante room? Do we, particularly, make a point of greeting visiting Brethren? Do we look for strange faces and make a point of extending the right hand? Do we sit with new members and/or visitors at the festive board and show an interest in them, or do we make straight for that familiar chair next to 'good old Harry'. Do we think of our absent Brethren or attempt to visit them and find out why they don't come. Perhaps they only want the offer of a lift. When did we last visit the widow of a deceased member? Brethren - I wonder if I am giving you something to think about. Perhaps, Worshipful Master, the Brethren may care to ponder on these questions and make comments or suggestions at this same time at our next meeting.
RELIEF
I imagine we all remember the charity charge. That moment we are asked for a donation but had nothing to give. Now that we are restored to our personal comforts has that moment been so conveniently forgotten? Perhaps our financial circumrtances do not permit us to give in money teams - but we can give relief to others by our friendship, labour and our hearts. Think about it - CAN YOU OFFER MORE?
TRUTH
Is imaging by the truths expounded in the VSL. Are we doing this to the utmost of our power? It isn't easy and needs constant effort to live up to the ideals we espouse. We must be ever vigilant that we avoid the path of self interest which is so detrimental to mankind. Brethren, I am not just talking to you. These questions are also directed to me personally.
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