Master's Message - October 2016
Brethren: What a great start to our Masonic year –thank you again Bro. JW and team. It was nice to see several of our Past Masters, our DDGM on his fraternal visit, as well as “new”, current and past Grand Lodge Officers with us. W. Bro. Pogue’s family and our invited guests certainly added to our Festive Board. In October, we will Initiate Mr. LaVaughn Adderly according to our ancient customs and traditions, and at our Emergent meeting, we aim to confer the Degree of Fellowcraft. As is our usual custom, practices will be held for both ceremonies.
Most DIY’ers agree that drywalling and painting can be messy and frustrating : cutting and the mounting of gypsum board; taping, mudding, sanding and painting are tedious. Even in new construction, walls are not always plumb, square nor level; perfect cuts and measurements aren't always spot on; and despite best efforts, making seams disappear can take just a bit more time and effort. Taping and drop-cloths not always not fool-proof either-- just check my shoes! Over several weekends, I’ve tackled such jobs at our cottage with the goal of completing them by Fall. Experience has taught me that it’s all about the planning and preparation. Acquiring materials, using the right tools, and careful attention to “next steps” can save a lot of time, grief ,effort and money, never mind the time to enjoy a swim, kayak, or campfire.
Many coaches remind players that games are won at practices. Good results are a product of a series of small, well-planned and deliberate actions. Such it is in our jobs, hobbies and Masonic labours my brothers. Regular practices have served us well, and attention to detail make our ceremonies meaningful and memorable for ritualists and candidates alike. Clear and competent transmission of the material is for the benefit of the recipient, not the ritualist alone. The First Degree reminds us of the fundamentals, and I invite you to pay special attention to the exhortation of the ideas and concepts contained there-in. The FC Degree builds on the experiences of the Apprentice: instruction and education are key elements of it’s teachings. Such is the progressive nature of our Masonic Art & Science.
My late neighbor V.W. Bro Gordon Hutchison built his cottage over three decades: hewing logs from the property, tackling foundation, roof-trusses, walls and windows with a careful and deliberate approach. He tested and practiced his craftsmanship, especially when applying a new technique. There was a lot of trial and error, as well as much consultation with builders, contractors and purveyors. Reams of sketches, drawings and manuals are a testament to his planning and preparation. His beautiful cottage stands as his legacy: a place that his widow, family and grand-children will enjoy for years to come. While planning our building, he reminded me to be prepared for the “labour” required for such an undertaking; that I should balance leisure & relaxation with the work ; and be sure to take mistakes in stride: as learning opportunities; to ask questions at the hardware store, talk to the inspectors, and research options and techniques employed by those with relevant experience. “ If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well”. Solid advice indeed from a Builder, Craftsman, Brother and friend.
In this month of Thanksgiving, amidst all its abundance in this great nation called Canada, be mindful of the needs of others. Let us also express our gratitude to those who have left us this gift called Freemasonry, a legacy of Builders, of Craftsmen who have laid a foundation for us all to magnify and enjoy.
Fraternally, Charles Singh W. M.