my journey so far

[kudos100]

after almost 2 yrs i have just become a master mason and would like to share my journey with any one who has just joined or thinking of joining us. i am a normal working class man aged 47 my proposer very sadly past away a few mths ago but i have had every help and support from my fellow bros . from the start every body in the lodge without exception has been welcoming and very friendly ive never been left standing feeling the odd one out quite the opposite and although i always take part in the festive board [have a meal] and a few drinks plus the dreaded raffel i normaly spend under £25 and have never felt any pressure to contribute financially to anything although im comfortably off i guess . dont be put of if when u 1st enter the lodge u r greeted by a sea of gray 2 thirds of the bros in my lodge r over 60 but all seem to be very young at hart and willing to share there wisdom with the younger guys as well as being a great laugh at the festive board . the ritual can be confusing and a bit daunting at 1st but the more u see the more it makes sense and the more i have found it to be enlightening . i myself joined as a route to personal improvment but i have realized that everyone is in the lodge for there own reasons but also for the same reasons the least of which is we r all like minded men who enjoy eachothers company and hope to improve ourselves and contribute to others and the community by way of the many good causes supported by the masonic charities . the last thing i think it is very important to share is that there is a great feeling of equality amonst masons no matter what rank thay hold thay have all been in your position in the past and if you r looking a bit nervous befor a ritual many bros will put an arm on your shoulder and say the reassuring phrase every body here has been though this so theres nothing to worry about. i feel my journey is just starting so if your in a hurry thats not what its about but i dont see that as a negertive hope this helps anyone whos finding it hard to make senes the masses of info on line cheers and hope to see you soon

[Janner]

Excellent posting, you seem to have a cracking lodge and have settled in well. It is also a gentle reminder for us who have been in a while what we need to say and do to ensure we make new members welcome. Thanks.

[Lloyd Wiebe]

Welcome, and enjoy.