My Brother, You Are Not Alone
Freemasonry unites good men from different economic, professional, social, ethnic, religious, and geographic backgrounds. We look for and value the quality of a man’s character - those internal attributes that empower our ability to live a moral and virtuous life. By living our Shared Values like honor, integrity, freedom, equality, brotherly love, learning, and service to mankind, we see the genuine good in one another. That perspective supports how our union can make a positive impact on our families, friends, workplaces, and communities. We literally are stronger together and provide a constant reminder that “good men do exist in the world.”
As Freemasons, we gather as Brothers and friends during many fellowship and learning activities. During these quality times, we talk and share stories about our lives. We socialize and have fun; we champion each other’s well-being and success. Also, we applaud the personal celebrations that we enjoy along life’s journey together like the birth of a child or grandchild, getting a promotion at work, receiving an award, or achieving a significant Masonic Anniversary milestone. Next, as we connect with a broader group of Brothers, we embrace the opportunity to befriend men whom we might otherwise never meet, if not for Freemasonry. In many of those instances, we learn about another Brother’s perspective or way of living which enriches our understanding of the world around us.
As a fraternity, we are first and foremost a brotherhood of men. We care about one another and know that our Brotherly Love is real. We witness it constantly through the many acts of compassion demonstrated by our Brothers towards one another and our families. The sons and daughters of our Brothers have plenty of “uncles” who care about them and whom they can learn from. For example, it has been common for a Brother who is dropping off his daughter at college for the first time to make a special detour to drive by the local lodge building and point out its location; then he would kindly inform her that if she ever needed help or assistance, then “go to that building, tell them who you are and who I am, and they will take care of you.” The phrase “peace of mind” gains deeper meaning for our Brother who is about to leave his “baby girl” out in the world. Rest assured that our Masonic Square and Compasses insignia is a beacon light for all of our family members.
The Mystic Tie of knowledge, love, caring, and compassion that forms the unbreakable bond among Freemasons is the foundation of our exceptional and unique fraternal experiences. We take pride in being useful to a worthy Brother and his family whether with a kind word, a joyous hug, or support in times of need. Fundamentally, our assistance and affection for one another are time-tested. Though our lives can feel hectic in this accelerating Digital Age, we have something special to help us cherish the precious and valuable aspects of life; we have millions of Brothers and friends around the world through our amazing fraternity. No matter where you are on life’s journey, “My Brother, you are not alone.” When you are traveling on vacation or business, “My Brother, you are not alone.” When your family is at home without you, “My Brother, they are not alone.” When the challenges of life happen and all may seem lost, “My Brother, you are not alone.” And lastly, when your working tools are finally laid down and we help cherish your memory with a heartfelt farewell, “My Brother, your widow and family will not be alone.”