The Working Tools Magazine “Light” Version - Hawthorne-Fortitude ...

“Humility as a Masonic Virtue” - Mascaro
(Continued from page 13) Furthermore, and most
importantly, when we do not
exercise reason, kindness and a calm demeanor when in
discourse with others we damage the reputation of our great
fraternity. This, more than any other consideration, must
guide our actions. When we act it is beneficial to always
examine our actions and, rather than think whether or not they
will benefit us personally, think instead whether or not they
will benefit the most Masons possible and, beyond even that,
the most human beings worldwide.
Does this mean we cannot assert our ideas? Certainly not, that
would be against the spirit of inquiry which we hold dear.
However, there is a marked difference between a reasonable
and level exchange of ideas and a rabid, chest thumping
debate. When we attempt to “win” an argument, proselytizing
and clinging to a desire to be correct rather than listening and
participating in a rational give and take, we do the very
didactic principles of discourse a disservice. The only time
there can be a “winner” in an argument of ideas is when both
participants leave feeling calmly educated, if on no other
subject than the opinions of a brother.
It is a sad day when one holds their own opinion above the
emotions and dignity of a Brother. Fostering fraternal bonds
and helping everyone you speak to on a daily basis to feel
respected, if not necessarily agreed with, is one of the greatest
forms of charity possible. Giving money or time to a worthy
cause is admirable and vital. However, fostering a feeling of
brotherly affection is also very important, and one of the most
mutually fulfilling, far reaching and lasting actions we can
take.
Of course, at Lodge, certain traditionally heated topics are
banned from the chambers where we Labor at our Craft. Yet
these topics, religion and politics, are not the only subjects
capable of inspiring rancor. It also bears consideration that we
should not only be concerned with proper behavior at lodge,
but when at labor anywhere on Earth, that great lodge
mortared in matter and tiled in time. This is certainly
something to remember during an election year such as this
one.
In the spirit of the gentle assertion I have made on the value of
humility I entreat you sincerely to reconcile any disharmony
between yourself and your fellows. Not just your fellow
Masons, but your fellow humans. If there is anger or unease
between yourself and another, reach out a hand, across
borders, across party lines, or maybe just across the living
room. It will ever be the aspiration and the domain of Masons
to be the bigger men. Understand that no disagreement, no
perceived slight or indignity, is worth a loss or lessening of
love between brothers. When you reach a hand out in
reconciliation, just as you do in giving to worthy causes, others
see the Masonic ring upon it. Then you have acted in a way
that honors not only yourself, but all Masons.
T W T
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