reply to post by MagesticEsoteric
I am also struck by your description of 'silent and introspective'. This characteristic is one that has been taught and emphasized in almost all
spiritual traditions.
It may just be his personality but in general people who go about their lives with this personality have mastered what many others strive a lifetime
for.
One verse that pops into my mind when I get all anxious and frazzled about life is, "Be still and know that I AM"
I hope these observations are relevant to him. I hate generalizations and stereotypes, and I hope you don't feel that I am generalizing him, (and I
know he is family) but it's quite remarkable for someone who isn't a Freemason to observe qualities that all masons strive for.
As far as power or influence I think this is a misconception that non-masons have about us. Even when George Washington was President the Master of
his lodge was a servant at his house. Brother Washington would have sat attentively in the meetings and followed the directions of his servant during
that meeting. The Master has discretion over all lodge matters, but he only sits in the chair for a year and he is democratically elected.
The Grand Lodge of each state is the sole authority over all lodges in the state. That is where masonic authority ends (at least in the US). A Grand
Lodge in another state cannot govern a lodge that is in a different state. In the US we recognize no authority above the Grand Lodge as far as
Freemasonry lodge business.
Many men are attracted to Freemasonry because of a perception that it confers power. The opposite, though, is true. No matter what lodge or country
a true Freemason is from there are certain common threads that bind us together.
Without getting into specifics, when we first become an Entered Apprentice we must divest ourselves of all metals and anything of monetary value
before entering the lodge. This teaches that temporal wealth has no value in the Lodge.
We are taught not only the importance of Charity, but also that true charity occurs when it is selfless, anonymous and given without condition.
well.. as the ATS folks know I could go on forever but for myself I think you are very fortunate to know your grandfather.
