VWB C. Blair Leckie Deputy of the Grand Master in District 4 of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Washington for 2005-2007 Mailto: cblairl@excite.com

 (February 2007)

As a charter member of the first generation of humanity since the deployment of the atomic bomb, I have grown up in an atmosphere of repressed anxiety and fatalistic acceptance of the potential for imminent catastrophe.  This isn’t to say that mine and successive generations are bereft of hope and joy and meaning – quite the contrary.  But, somewhere in the miasma of our collective sub-conscience, cynical and pessimistic forces are at work.  Perhaps this is why, when I became a Mason, it came as no surprise to me that the first voices I heard, other than those expressing the wisdom and unerring counsel of our Craft, were the voices of doom.  “Unless we do something to attract new members, Masonry will cease to exist, ” these voices would say.  They would speak of ever diminishing numbers of men wishing to join our Fraternity and Masonry’s inability to compete with television, fast paced, instant entertainment and short attention spans for the time of young men.  “Too many distractions,” they would say.  Doom, doom, doom.

Up until a couple of years ago, I bought in to these dire pronouncements.  Like many well-intentioned and concerned Masons, I was losing faith in the basic belief that, no matter what the tyranny, goodness endures.  The fact that we project fears and doubts about Masonry’s ability to survive in these fast paced times of technology and rapid change, has absolutely nothing to do with the truth.  It is true that membership numbers are down and from a young person’s perspective, Masonry, at first glance, has very little to offer.  But, young men are seeing, or at least sensing, what the prophets of doom are missing.  Goodness endures.  They see that Masonry offers them an inroad to goodness.

Human beings are easily confused.  Consequently, anything that encourages us to follow our natural path, that helps to clear the confusion and contributes to the development of who we are striving to become, is joyful and good.  To those who are open to it, Masonry provides instruction and guidance to goodness.

I have begun to realize that young men of good character always have and will continue to join our fraternity.  I am no longer so much bothered that there are fewer of them in number as I am impressed with their commitment and diligence. They are respectfully taking their rightful places in our lodges, assuming responsibilities and energizing our Craft with enthusiasm.  Their presence creates a synergism and revitalizes in established Master Masons the meaning and intention of our Obligations.  As a result, I have observed an increased proficiency in the ritual work of every lodge in our district, albeit some more than others.  I have noticed an increased effort to give to the community through Grand Lodge programs, service and financial contribution.  The fellowship between lodges and within our own lodge appears warmer and more robust. It is obvious, at least to me, that we are gaining a renewed appreciation for the need to prepare, to be accountable and to be dedicated to doing the work.  In short, my Brothers, regardless of any resident subconscious pessimism, I am encouraged and hopeful. Masonry prospers.  Goodness endures.

Thanks to both the District Deputy of the Grand Master in District 4, and the Masonic Monitor which publishes his articles for allowing us to reprint them.  The Masonic Monitor is published monthly (except August) under approval of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Washington.  The Masonic Monitor can be contacted at: 6619 132nd Avenue NE, PMB 237, Kirkland, WA, 98033-8627, USA.  Phone: (425) 822-4605 - FAX: (425) 822-2535 - Email: masonicmonitor@earthlink.net.