Let me take this opportunity to reset the thread as it has gotten off topic and off attitude.
My advice if you are looking to join, is to be able to take a long hard look at yourself and realize that there is plenty to be improved upon. Any man who thinks himself perfect will not benefit, conversely a wicked man who is not able to be improved would likewise gain nothing. Being able to stop, take a breath and objectively evaluate his character, moral makeup, temperance, and fortitude is often the crux of what makes Masons better men. You may see some of the responses harsh, but learning to take away grains of goodness from even the most staunch of views opposed to yours will surely sharpen your mind and soften your heart. Do not feel as though the men here want to play you as the "bad guy", but also do not consider yourself a victim for both are fruitless thoughts.
As for the ring... Most, if not all, Freemasons are cognitively aware of the change that has taken place in their lives as a result of Freemasonry beginning with the ritual degrees and continuing with self evaluation. For them, it is quite like a trial by fire in the mind and heart. Such a transformation for us is symbolized by the square and compass or other symbols wrought into rings and other such. To the lot of us, the regalia we sport represents a very personal journey that should not be taken lightly. Also picture yourself should you one day become a master, that ring will mean something wholly different. Why wear it when the true meaning (not in the texts) must be revealed to yourself by yourself at the appropriate time.
My advice to you is to take a step back and realize that this is the Internet and men are men, however Freemasonry is unlike the rest of society. When we admonish you to stop and evaluate yourself or your statements, we are not simply trying to stifle you, but to literally attempt to get you to take a hard look at how you interact with the world as it will surely change over time with experience.
Seriously though, slow down and state plainly your questions so they are not misconstrued (which is easy to happen on a forum). I myself am only 32 and I have learned that humbleness and humility go a long way to developing into greatness.
DQ
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