Brethren:

My curious little sister recently asked me to teach her the “secret” handshake of a Mason. It was cute and endearing, and after I told her no, I explained that it would do her no good anyway. Not only would she not be able to use it to enter a Lodge, but if she DID use it on a brother Mason, they would instantly become wary of her having knowledge she shouldn’t have. And, wouldn’t that defeat her original purpose?

I find it interesting that people are so attracted to secret information, and are so eager to be exclusive, be elite, and otherwise know things that other people don’t know. I am no exception. I’ve dreamed of working for the CIA, or being a computer hacker extraordinaire. Even my original pull toward Masonry was partially due to the lure of secret knowledge and information.

Yet, I am chastised by the explanation of the beehive in the third degree lecture. I am informed that I should be endeavouring to add to the common stock of knowledge and understanding. I realized that I can never be adding to society’s knowledge base if I am only seeking out existing knowledge. Instead, I should be endeavouring to create something. Exploring the world to make a new discovery, perhaps. Or, writing a dissertation which gives people new insights into the world around us. Or, studying science, nature, or history enough so that I can make a connection no one else has made before.

I suddenly feel a little guilty for wanting to get and have knowledge for my own personal gain. This is a selfish motive for a self-serving act, which does not benefit my fellow man, or the world at large. Whereas, creating something, discovering something, or otherwise giving something to society is a selfless act. It is an act that requires more work, certainly. But, if I cringe at that thought, then I am lazy AND selfish. The whole point of being a Master Mason is that we have achieved a level of proficiency in observing and learning from the world around us, and have achieved mastery in the use of the tools we have been given by the Supreme Grandmaaster, as well as Master Masons before us. Now, it is our turn to use these tools and expertise to give instruction to those around us. To give back to society, and to improve the base of knowledge from which mankind draws in order to advance itself.

And, in a twist of irony, I discover that fulfilling this act would make me far more exclusive and elite. So few are revered for their contributions to society and the world. Wouldn’t I much rather be known for my contribution to society than simply being full of myself for knowing a secret?

Fraternally,

David Sylvester
Master

slyman007@aol.com