For the Benefit of our Young Masons
By Dewey H. Wollstein, PGM
Often we hear the criticism of a Mason, the recital of some act on the part of a brother, which reflects upon the craft as a whole.
For the most part, it seems to this writer that we are over-critical of our brothers, but perhaps in this way we have maintained a standard of moral excellence which is respected by almost the entire world, with the exception of those who bow to the dictates of tyrannical leaders, political or religious, and are not permitted to see any good in the Masons or Masonry. In these cases the critic does not own his own soul, so there is little that can be done except to offer pity.
However, many times, the young man will talk with a non-Mason, who is always willing to go to great effort to explain “why he will not become a Mason.†His purpose is to confuse the candidate or young Mason.
But note carefully. Generally, the person who makes such an effort to discuss a subject of which he knows nothing, is one who cannot enter the portals of our institution. Many times he is the fellow who judges according to standards which he cannot attain for himself.
Let us understand well that there are men in every community who represent in their lives the ideals and principles of Masonry, but have never taken the degrees of Masonry. These men, however, have the wisdom to refrain from discussing a subject with which they are not conversant.
The best suggestion we can make to the young Mason is this – look around you. Consider the character and lives of the men in your community who are Masons. Many have known you since your childhood days. Discuss Masonry with Masons.
By Dewey H. Wollstein, PGM
Often we hear the criticism of a Mason, the recital of some act on the part of a brother, which reflects upon the craft as a whole.
For the most part, it seems to this writer that we are over-critical of our brothers, but perhaps in this way we have maintained a standard of moral excellence which is respected by almost the entire world, with the exception of those who bow to the dictates of tyrannical leaders, political or religious, and are not permitted to see any good in the Masons or Masonry. In these cases the critic does not own his own soul, so there is little that can be done except to offer pity.
However, many times, the young man will talk with a non-Mason, who is always willing to go to great effort to explain “why he will not become a Mason.†His purpose is to confuse the candidate or young Mason.
But note carefully. Generally, the person who makes such an effort to discuss a subject of which he knows nothing, is one who cannot enter the portals of our institution. Many times he is the fellow who judges according to standards which he cannot attain for himself.
Let us understand well that there are men in every community who represent in their lives the ideals and principles of Masonry, but have never taken the degrees of Masonry. These men, however, have the wisdom to refrain from discussing a subject with which they are not conversant.
The best suggestion we can make to the young Mason is this – look around you. Consider the character and lives of the men in your community who are Masons. Many have known you since your childhood days. Discuss Masonry with Masons.
