from curiosity to Worshipful Master by W. Bro. Peter Gartenberg
Some eight years ago a close friend suggested I consider becoming a Mason. Despite being retired, I was busy … but curiosity attracted me.
It was all a bit of a mystery at the start but my mentor explained that it needs to take time. My interest was primarily in aspects relating to morality, personal development and charity. Friendship is part of the package and, of course, one needs fun as well as serious purpose. We call it ‘Brotherhood’, as it is more than just being social but being supportive: a real bonus.
Our main ‘work’ is preparing for four ritual meetings each year, taking different roles. There is some learning but only really when one becomes Worshipful Master is it onerous. By then it is much more familiar territory – before, it is fitting it together that is the challenge.
But one cannot rest on one’s laurels, as there are plenty of ‘party pieces’ to present at meetings. It is different from most other activities and develops one’s confidence and presentation skills. And we are always supportive when bloopers occur or someone forgets their lines. There are even roles to play at the meal after each meeting at the Festive Board. So, for some of us there is not such a thing as a duty-free dinner, free though the drink may flow.
We have recently introduced more aspects of learning into our ‘training sessions’. That will involve everyone in simple research to help us all understand what lies behind our rituals.
Outside the more serious stuff, I enjoy our charitable exploits, and not just giving monetary support. It is especially gratifying when we find an activity to take part in together and make a tangible difference. We also have social gatherings, often food-related but other ideas are in the offing, and welcome.
I am a dutiful Freemason – I learn my stuff, seek to understand it, give to charity, attend regularly. So, I feel I have gained more from it by putting in something, as is often the case. I know there is far more to learn, to explore, to take part in, to do – Masonry is justifiably for life!
