It wasn’t till the passing of my father that it dawned on me of the importance of remembering. With all the Internal problems we face in masonry as well as the real life problems.. Such as the economy and world conditions in general, We often forget those around us. My mother may be fine.. She not only remarried but was lucky enough to be young enough to handle some of the mental stress that came along with the passing of her spouse.
I made me wonder about the ones that may not be so lucky. The ones that perhaps a few months after there loss fade away into the cracks of our fraternity. It made me think about the little things that could perhaps make a difference for that person. Such as a simple phone call.. Shoveling of the side walk in the winter. or even an invite for a free hot meal once in awhile.
Another brain fart involved me remembering my own obligation taken in the very first degree. It’s a simple duty that again I admit.. I’ve overlooked way to often then not. We are now heading into Holiday Season 2009. I’m beginning to do a bit of reflecting on myself. I’m not only realizing a number of my own errors. I’m going about ways of fixing them.
Life is too short to forget those who matter. Sometimes we need a battle plan or a pep talk to remember this…. Of course our organization has it’s own guidelines concerning Masonic Widows and what to do with them. But who can really say what each individual needs when it comes to masonic aid?
I’ve come up with a short 12 page report on the topic of our masonic widows. it’s purpose is to share the concept of simple remembrance. As well as a plan to jump start a widows program in a local masonic family.. So far the report has been received in good word.
This is what one Brother had to say about it.
“Superbly done, well thought out. I do like the handwritten invitation. You mentioned calling a few days later after the dinner, I would also recommend a “handwritten” Thank you The assistance with the social services can be tricky, but, when brought before the body of the Lodge, those brother’s who know, or know where to get help are invaluable.” - Michael T.Moon -Wasatch No. 1, Uintah No.7, and Camp Floyd Historic Lodge U.D., M.W.G.L. F. & A.M. of Utah
Alan Reeves…. A brother from the eastern united states wrote in with this wonderful comment - “A good Almoner or Charity Steward should look after the widows - organising birthday and Christmas cards and flowers, lunches and other social functions, and making sure they are escorted to Ladies Nights, etc. Our Almoner does a splendid job, working with the Almoners of several other Lodges, so that none are left out.”
And low and behold.. A non member’s opinion
“Because of this stigma surrounding masonry, I guess it is common for a woman to not get that involved with the lodge. But for any organization that normally doesn’t involve women where a member’s wife is left widowed. Not just for masonry. Which is why I think that proposal of yours is a great idea” - Gavin B.
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As of this time Brothers are encouraged to leave comments, pass it around and even initiate use of this report. I will be posting more infomation and reviews as they come in
This was written very well. I will share this with the brothers in my lodge. One of the things for people to remember is that sometimes it is those little things that can make all the difference in someone’s life.
Fraternally,
Thumper Pruitt
Argenta Lodge #3