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most worshipful grand lodge - Louisiana State University

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12 SPECIAL COMMUNrOATION OP THE GRAND LODGEAnd while we recognize this ; while our hearts are expandedby the consciousness of the infinite <strong>grand</strong>eur and immeasurablescope of the spiritual essence of Freemasonry, we must feel thatour work is but half done if we stop at theoretical success andemotional enthusiasm. By thy work shalt thou be judged. Freemasonry,though springing from the spirit-promptings of divinetruth, is yet a human institution. The happiness of man is itsaim and mission. Shall we pause to consider for a moment howall-embracing this simple proposition is? Can we be happywithout the love of God? Can we be happy without the companionshipof man! Impossible! We can not conceive a stateof happiness which does not rest on the conditions here implied.Masonry rests upon the logic of these conclusions, and erectsupon them its edifice of human progress, in the domain of moraland social aspirations, which determine the conditions of happiness.It does not flatter man, nor does it tend to make him arrogant,assuming or vain-glorious. Quite the reverse: its first andnever-forgotten lesson is to teach him humility and vividly recallhim to the consciousness of his utter helplessness. Out ofthis state of depression he soon rises to know that his weaknessis his strength ; his dependence, the strong link in the chain ofour brotherhood. Faith rivets the bond, and makes it universaland everlasting.To make this bond worthy and permanent, it must rest onindisputable premises; these are, the adoration of truth and thepractice of virtue. Masonry combats not only the grosser evilsof active wrong, injury or injustice; it aims at the exterminationof vice, by teaching us to control every evil propensity orpassion which may bring disorder or unhappiuess into the world.Hope lights us in our work, and ever whispers the promise of aglorious consummation.Lastly, Charity, the ever-present inspiration of sympathy andbeneficence, scatters her heavenly bounty to cheer the sorrowingand relieve the distressed.These elements and factors combined, strengthening man inhis confidence in God, in himself and in his fellow-men ; elevatinghis thoughts and aspirations towards an ideal, where vice,and selfishness, and inhumanity are powerless, if not extinguished;prompting and scattering deeds of sympathy and benevolencewherever sorrow needs a comforter or want relief,—make effect-

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