Granted, I've just started my journey within the Blue Lodge, so I think I'll wait a few years before joining another...so much to learn and enjoy, so little time...
Ken
Ken
That is my recommedation.
I did the York Rite in my first year (a couple of months after being raised) and will do the Scottish Rite as some point when I am looking for a new experience. But I have only been to one commandery meeting since the festival, which was in August. I have put primary focus on the Blue Lodge, so I might have jumped the gun a couple of years. Based on my experience, I would encourage you not to rush to the appendant bodies.
Your Blue Lodge needs you and it will benefit you in your masonic career. During your fist couple of years, while the stuff is fresh on your mind, I think you should devote yourself to learning parts in the degrees (to me that is the most fun part of Masonry) and teaching candidates their work. This will solidify it in your mind. So that a few years down the road, if some candidate asks for help you won't have to say "let me get back to you on that". You will just know it.
At the end of the day, I had people telling me the same thing I just told you and I ran off and did the York Rite. If you choose to do the same as I did, I would recommend the York Rite first, just because it is a continuation of the Blue degrees, while the Scottish Rite takes a little bit different track (as I have heard and read on this board).
And if you don't consider yourself a Christian, you don't have to do the Commandery degrees. Just do the Chapter and Council. It will still be a wonderful experience without the Commandery.