The Masonic Trowel

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WHO ARE THE MASONS?

by A. F. Melchers
THE MASONIC CHRONICLE -1888


According to the profane world, all who belong to the mystic crew are denominated as Masons, but within the privacy of its sacred circle, a line is drawn not observable to the common populace. A true Mason is one who abides by its principles, its tenets, and strives to unfold himself in accord with the moral that exists in connection with, or arises from them. These morals are often enough elucidated to be known by heart, as it were, if the members would but attend regularly and give an "attentive ear" to the lectures and charges propounded to the newly initiated, and in the event of knowing them, analyze their true significance.

The Lord's Prayer, for example, is a formulated supplication known to the entire civilized world, and yet how few, comparatively, ever analyze it, or think over what they are uttering. So the formulae and expressions used in Masonry are known, and capable of being repeated mechanically, but their true meaning is seldom cognized, even by the "brightest." To follow these morals blindly is very well, when followed out, and in which respect the laborer and mechanic deserves the most credo; but the would-be-more-enlightened members of the craft, in a large measure, overlook this as an unnecessary obligation. Not that they disregard its tenets as unworthy, or as something beneath them, but due rather to the atheistical tendency of the age, which, in discovering a superior intelligence, also belittles the method of elevating man through moral culture, and thereby contaminates many who would otherwise be more conscientious in their Masonic behavior. But there are some who allow self-sufficiency to step between them and their Masonic principles, and such we would denominate the really would-be-more-enlightened ones, because a true perception of morality would never allow itself to be governed by any outside pressure, however universal it may become for a period of time. Thus a little earnest reflection is in order by this class, for, as well as catching on to the prevailing ideas that are afloat in the profane world, they can comprehend some of the truths existing in Masonry, and by a little mental exertion, or an earnest desire, will find much that is in favor of Masonry over many of the popular ideas of the day. Simply believing that the tenets are very well for some one also to follow out, practically is not Masonic. Every member must constitute an example himself, and especially if he imagines himself to be superior to another. The en- lightened ones should lead the wary, as it is in their power to do so. Having a clearer insight into the Masonic teachings, they should become the teachers and not the revilers in heart, as many appear to be on certain occasions, and occasions which should be regarded as the most sacred moments in the life of every true Mason, and for the simple reason that he thought it such at one time himself. The more earnestness that a candidate displays, the greater will be the reaction when his eyes are opened to the truth that frivolity exists in conjunction with Masonry. It is true that such cases are rare, but one fool makes many where conditions are favorable for this effect, and irreparable damage is done - the ignorant very easily imitating the example of those above him intellectually, and under which conditions he fools that ho has a right to join in. And when the unenlightened accompanies his superior, it is a well known fact that he over does it - carrying ridicule to the other extreme, and becoming emotional or enthusiastic on anything that has an opposite tendency, both often deviating from reason and doing more harm than good. Thus a leader should always act cautiously and with foresight, and handle the reins with due judgment and perspicuity; and every intelligent Mason should regard himself as a leader in the above named instance, by conducting himself in a manner worthy of imitation by his supposed inferiors or unenlightened brethren, intellectually considered. As a brotherhood, of course, there is no distinction - neither rank, station nor wealth ever being taken in consideration in Masonic affairs. But intellectual distinction cannot be amalgamated, nor is it demanded, for this asserts itself unwillingly and governs unconsciously, as it were. Only, where it does exist, it should be well guarded by the possessor and used for a good purpose on the moat trivial occasion; and when arrogated it should at least be kept up by a sober exterior (which offer passes for wisdom) and not expose the really earnest ones to the disrespect of the ignorant by their folly.

But we are not fault finding, only we cannot help from observing facts that come under our notice at times, and by calling attention to them it may lead to good results - many of the above probably being unconscious of their little unwilling inconsistency, or folly, either. However, Masons understand us, and will pardon us for calling attention to the same, for we feel assured that all who have the welfare of the Order at heart will approve of what we've said. We regard Masonry as a sacred trust, and only desire that all should think as we do in this respect, even if they do not agree with us in our other little observances. But to be a Mason, man should be one at heart as well as at the head, i.e, give himself out for one. The outside world has a good opinion of the craft, and every member should endeavor to substantiate this belief by his acts and the expression of his thoughts, and prove himself to be a true Mason within its ranks by following out its tenets and principles conscientiously and without fear of the world's opinions, whichever direction they may be temporarily wafting. Morality will triumph in the end, and whatever strife or mutual warfare may exist outside, Masonry will hold its own, as it has done throughout the past. When discord swayed without, harmony reigned within; and as it was in the past, so let it be in the present. Peace is our desire, so let it be the aim of the individual; and when meeting on this level the brotherhood is perfected - this being the precursor to that universal brotherhood to which the world at large is aiming, but as yet only attained by Masonry; and therefore let brotherly love prevail, that the world may know by this who are the Masons.

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Last modified: March 22, 2014