My dear Brethren:

While studying story telling and character development, Joseph Campbell's Hero's Journey (the standard literary formula for the stages that a hero must go through to tell a complete story) has been a common influence and framework for me to reference. I realized this morning, however, that like most things, I had only applied this framework to stories, and never carried it over to examine my own life, or try to improve myself with the deeper understanding of human nature which it affords.

As the hero of my own life's story, I have had numerous calls to adventure, pulling me out of ruts, or stretching me beyond the realm of the comfortable, not the least of which is being Master of our Lodge, a task that seemed far beyond my abilities seven years ago. Along the way, I've met mentors: wise men who have given me just enough encouragement and help to guide me through unfamiliar territory. I've met antagonists, as well. People, who, at first glance, may appear to hinder my journey, but taking a step back, I realize they are simply testing me, and providing me with obstacles to overcome in a grand test of my will, and an overarching series of character building exercises, for growth comes from tackling adversity, not coasting placidly through success.

And, today, as I worried about a couple large problems in my life, I suddenly considered this time in my life "Act 2:" the time when all seems darkest for the hero, just before he triumphs. I laughed to myself, thinking of all the times when I stretched my creativity to come up with horrible ordeals with which to inflict upon characters in my stories, only to worry and complain when the great author of my existence has done the same unto me. I realized that any problem or issue is my ordeal, and the opportunity for me to prove how I've grown, conquer the adversity, and seize my sword of victory.

Applying one framework to another situation is a fundamental idea behind Freemasonry; we use tools and implements, stories and rituals as our frameworks. And, Masonry has taught me to see patterns,and relate insights from one area of my life to another. Joseph Campbell's storytelling device is not only handy for writing stories, but an inspirational guide for living my life. Just as the symbols of Masonry are not only handy for building cathedrals, but can be inspirational tools for building our lives.

Fraternally,

David Sylvester
Master

slyman007@aol.com