Thanks for submitting this link, Brother.
This is such a firebrand topic which generates passionate responses and opinions. I am not certain of my feelings on this particular topic. I will never be able to imagine myself walking in the shoes of someone who has spent their life identifying themselves as a sex opposite to what they were born. The physical and psychological toll of 'knowing' they are trapped in a body of the wrong sex is unfathomable to me...but it must be a supremely difficult life, and it is fortunate that they live in an era where there are both options and acceptance (in general) of their condition. The UGLE is taking the approach which is extremely compassionate and accepting. I personally do not know how the general opinions around this topic will evolve.
I believe that the many MM's will be challenged by UGLE's approach, especially from those who take a strict interpretation of their obligation. In truth, I tend to be pretty draconian in my views. Maybe it's my strict upbringing, military, etc. Also, the older I get, the less I tend to see subtle shades of grey in many an issue. My views on the world are not that complicated.
So, I have to question myself:
I have to consider a transgender woman, who became a man, then petitions and is balloted clear to receive the degrees in my lodge. Would I, as a MM, taking to heart my oath, be able to sit in lodge with this person or witness their raising without conflict and with a clear conscience? Conversely, would I, as a MM, be able to sit in lodge with a transgender brother MM who recently became a woman ?
In truth - those are very difficult questions to me to answer. I hope that I can evade such situations. Simply put, there isn't much room for me to challenge my own interpretation of my obligation - in my heart, I already know which direction my heart would be leaning.