Diversity - A strength or weakness


Yesterday I wrote about a page where I saw some very questionable content. Well, in my opinion. It was asking about allowing membership in our Fraternity based on a medical condition.

Masonry has a lot of beautiful things attributed to it. Our Landmarks, Rituals, Lessons, etc. But one of the things I find the most beautiful is our diversity.

Red and yellow, black and white. They are precious in His sight. Let me say before I continue, and I have said it before. I do not believe in “White”. Caucasian, yes. White, No.  I used to work as an orderly at a medical facility. I have seen “white people” they were on a gurney covered with a cloth.  We are all different shades of brown.

I believe in the Grand Artificer, the true Master Craftsman that with time, love, and patience put all of this together.  Are we perfect? Oh, far from it. He made us of different races, political ideals, even spiritualities.  I wonder why he did that? Maybe, we could have the opportunity to learn about the Creator, and Creation from different points of view?

Each living stone is special. Each living stone is unique. Each living stone has value. Because each living stone is a reflection of their creator. Some just may not realize that.

Is Masonry for everyone? No, it is not. There are some that for some reason cannot wrap their head around this idea. A shame really, but true.

I have sat in Temple rooms with Christian Brothers, Pagan Brothers, Muslim Brothers, Jewish Brothers, Republican Brothers, Democrat Brothers, Independent Brothers, Gay Brothers, Straight Brothers, and Brothers of many different nationalities and creeds.

What were the common ideas and goals? There were three. The first knowing we are all Brothers, and the first part of our description does not matter. The second was we honestly do not deserve to be there but honored we are. The last is that we are all working on our imperfections and hope that mine fits with yours, for the builders use.

It is my hope that we are Brothers lean on each other. I help you with your stone as you help me with mine. We might as well start now and get used to the idea. As the Craftsman will place our stones one on top of the other, we will lean on each other anyway, right?

When erecting a building you use different substances. Cement, Mortar, Stones are placed in order and in the end you have a beautiful building.  So, it is with our Craft.

I honestly believe it is our diversity that is a part of our strength.

I love you and may we govern ourselves accordingly.

 


 

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