From the East
My Brothers, I was under the mistaken impression that Freemasonry builds character. I should have remembered Freemasonry's universal credo, "Freemasonry makes good men better"....nothing about character. Webster defines character as, " One of the attributes or features that make up and distinguish an individual". Therefore, character, or more pointedly, a character trait can be good or bad. Individuals determine their own character whether they are likeable, trustworthy, honest, giving, hard working or the exact opposite of each of these. The nineteen century evangelist, Dwight L. Moody, might have said it best,
"Character is what you are in the dark." This might be a good time for each of us to look at the "character" we have nurtured and put on display whenever we come in contact with any one else's character. Masonry is not the mechanic that can help us re-build the image we portray. We must each do that for ourselves. Is it time for a tune-up?
I was very pleased with our proficiency at last Saturday's Wade Landrum Outdoor Degree. A special Thanks to Sam and Steve for going above and beyond the call of duty! I also want to thank Gordy, Clay, and all the Brothers that filled in for those that couldn't be with us. One last Thanks to the nine "volunteer" FC's
From the West
Greetings Brothers, we had an outstanding turnout for the Master Mason degree and we thank each and everyone for the participation, support and attendance. It appears that the outdoor degree is growing every year with this year being on the largest turnouts in recent years. I believe it is due to the hard work and dedication of all those who where involved with the planning and degree work. Let’s keep up the good work and shoot for one hundred or more next year.
In my recent request for coaches I have had several brothers agreeing to help. Thank you for volunteering! We will be getting together to appoint a lead coach to help organize and help the less experience coaches in their duties. If anyone else would like to help coach we always can use you, call me at 707-3252.
Brothers let us not forget the food barrel, it is only half full and we need it completely full before we take it to the Rescue Mission. If you would rater make a cash donation see me before or after a meeting and I will see that the money is used to purchase additional food.
Finally, we have had several meetings this year with many brothers on the sidelines. Many of these brothers are from up north or visiting from other countries. It would be nice to have more Tropical Brothers attend and support our Lodge and Officers. We have a line that is doing outstanding degree work come out and watch or better yet get involved.
In Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth,
Sam Bissell,, Senior Warden
From the Secretary
Brethren, there are still quite a number of members who need to get their 2008 Dues Cards. With summertime and vacations coming up, you might want to visit other Lodges. You must have a current dues card to do this.
Send your dues in right away and I will send your 2008 Dues Card to you by return mail.
Have a happy summer.
Ron Frieden, Secretary