I have been reading these topics in here the past couple days. I have always been interested in the craft, mainly because of the secrecy behind it. I have realized though after reading these topics, and many other websites that I was interested for the wrong reasons. I have ALWAYS knew in my life that I was going to do something great, I think this might be it.

My question is How do I know what to believe? Do I trust the people that are saying all the negative things, or the Freemasons on this site?

From what I hear in these topics it sounds like something I would love to be a part of! Then I see all these people bad mouthing the craft. Just a little confused right now. Any guidance would be very much appreciated! Thank you for your time.

Respectfully, Blue

A valid question. Before proceeding with any serious undertaking, a man should approach the undertaking with seriousness and reflection.

One thing you should realize: Masonry is NOT a Secret! Everything in masonry is plastered all over the internet, and in books, available in any library and from amazon.com. Our goals and objectives, and the charitable work that we do, are clearly listed and explained for all the world to see. Members wear rings, basecall caps, belt buckles,etc. I got the state legislature to pass legislation to authorize Masonic vehicle license plates. Masonic buildings are clearly marked, most have internet web sites. All of the Grand Lodges in the USA have web sites. No attempt is made to keep Masonry secret.

True, there are a number of individuals who are opposed to Freemasonry. You should not trust what anti-Masons say about this fraternity, these people have an agenda, and they will promulgate any lie in order to further their goal of tearing down this craft. See:

See:

http://www.masonicinfo.com/objectors.htm

for more information about this topic.

If you want the straight information about Masonry, ask your Grand Lodge, or your local lodge. Better yet, ask a Mason!

I will be more than glad to answer any question you have about Masonry. I have been in this organization for 25 years, and my only regret, is that I did not join the fraternity when I was on active duty.

Remember, you will never be asked to join. The decision must be yours alone, without outside influence or pressure. If you decide that Masonry is right for you, I will be more than glad to assist you in locating a lodge, and getting a petition (application) submitted.

Welcome aboard!

Check out:

http://www.srmason-sj.org/web/SRpublications/DeHoyos.htm

Blue,

I applaud you for doing some soul searching and realizing that you were interested in Masonry for the wrong reason.
It takes a true man to look inside himself and turn his opinion around on an issue completly.

As for what to belive, I cannot tell you that. I can only tell you my feelings, and that is that people fear what they do not understand. Masonry has been "secret" for so long that it has been subject to speculation since before biblical times. No other organization on the planet can lay claim to such a statement.

That being said, many things have been said about Masonry. The Craft however has not chosen to defend itself against those claims, mainly because we had no reason to. We have nothing to hide, with the exception of our modes of recognition which are not so much hidden as they are cherished.

Believe what you wish, but I will tell you this: ANY organization which can bring together men from all different walks of life, races, religions, and cultural backrounds to meet upon the level together for fellowship & to accomplish great works of charity has no reason to worry about any speculation from the general public. Nor does the general public have anything to fear.

.....that's my .02

Thank you for the links cemab4y, they were very helpful and extremely informative! Thank you as well Sig for the kind words.

After reading through all these topics and the links posted here I think as soon as I get a few things in line I am going to petition.

I do not know what it is, every time I think about being a member I get this overwhelming sense of joy, and purpose, almost like I cannot wait to be a Freemason. Sometimes it is so strong that it nearly gives me the chills.

Do you guys remember what it felt like when you were thinking about joining? Then what it felt like when you finally made it?

I want to say thank you again, and have a good weekend!!!

Respectfully, Blue

I congratulate you on your decision. Are you in VA as your profile says?

If so, I can put you in touch with some brothers up there when you are ready.

Good luck, and oh yeah, it's a good feeling.

Yes I am in VA, But I will not be here very much longer. Moving to MD in a couple months.

Respectfully, Blue

quote:

Originally posted by NavyBlue27:
I have been reading these topics in here the past couple days. I have always been interested in the craft, mainly because of the secrecy behind it. I have realized though after reading these topics, and many other websites that I was interested for the wrong reasons. I have ALWAYS knew in my life that I was going to do something great, I think this might be it.

My question is How do I know what to believe? Do I trust the people that are saying all the negative things, or the Freemasons on this site?

From what I hear in these topics it sounds like something I would love to be a part of! Then I see all these people bad mouthing the craft. Just a little confused right now. Any guidance would be very much appreciated! Thank you for your time.

Respectfully, Blue

Masonry is not a secret society. Everybody knows that the Masonic fraternity exists and no effort is made to hide the fact. It is only the wisdom of Masonry which is hidden, not because it is subtle, but because it is simple. Its secret is profound; not obscure.

In the quiet of the lodge, in an air of reverence and friendship, it teaches us the truth that makes us men, and upon which faith and character must rest.

What is secret in Freemasonry? The method of its teaching, the atmosphere it creates, the spirit in our hearts and the ties it weaves between men. The secret of Masonry, like the secret of life, can only be known by those who seek it. It cannot be uttered, it can only be felt and acted. For that reason no one need be alarmed about any book written to expose Masonry. It is utterly harmless.

The real secrets of Freemasonry cannot be learned by prying eyes or by curious inquiry. The secrets of Masonry can be known only by those who are ready and worthy to receive it. Only a pure heart and honest mind can know it.

If Masonry uses the illusion of secrecy, it is because it knows that it is the nature of man to seek what is hidden. We are seekers after truth and God has so made us that we cannot find the truth alone, but only in the love and service of our fellow man.

Here is the real secret and to learn it is to have the key to the meaning and joy of life.
Author Unknown

This piece was originally shared by Norm Leeper, Editor of Southern California Research Lodge F & AM.It is, now, shared with you by Bro. Ivan D. Lancaster of Trafalgar Lodge #413 and myself.

Fraternally,
/s/
Terry, PM
Freemason
Hot Topics Moderator

I know exactly what you mean. The sense of participation is quite a thrill. One of the most profound experiences I ever had in Masonry, is when I attended Fredericksburg lodge #4, in Fredericksburg VA. It is the lodge where George Washington was made a mason. It was quite an experience, to be in an assembly of men, who had met continuously for hundreds of years, and who had once contained our first President.

I cherish Freemasonry, it is my hope that you will too.

Get to know the Masons in your area, and use your own judgment if they would engage in the activities alleged.



My question is How do I know what to believe? Do I trust the people that are saying all the negative things, or the Freemasons on this site?

I cannot tell you what or whom to believe. This is left to you, and your own discernment.

I can tell you, that Masons are enjoined to practice brotherly love, relief, and truth. Masons are required to practice the highest standards of personal morality, and ethical conduct. You can count on masons, to tell you the truth.

You can learn a great deal about Masonry, through the various websites, and books that are published about the Craft. However, you will never know what it means to be a Mason, until you walk the walk. You must make the decision on your own, without outside influence, or mercenary motives, to petition to learn the arts, parts, and points of Masonry.

You should realize, that Masonry stresses free will and free association. Once you are a Mason, and you find that it is not for you, then you are free to leave the organization. You may resign Masonry anytime, for any reason, or for no reason.

I do not know you, and I do not know your mind. I cannot tell you whom to believe, or whom to trust. This is a journey, that you must make alone.

One way, that you can determine the character of an organization, is by examining the men who belong to the organization. You should view:

http://www.2b1ask1.info/famous.html

and see who is on this roster. 14 Presidents of the USA, patriots, and philosophers, actors, and military heroes; all have been masons.

If participating in this organization is what you want to do, then I encourage you to proceed forward. If you choose to believe the lies and scurrilous propaganda that the anti-masons dish out, then masonry is not for you, and you should just leave it alone, and walk away.

The journey is yours to make. No one can make this decision for you.

I wish you all the best, regardless of your decision.

quote:

Originally posted by cookslc:
My question is How do I know what to believe? Do I trust the people that are saying all the negative things, or the Freemasons on this site?

A wise Mason and retired police officer of my lodge, (Bro. Tom) Centre No. 23 F&A.M., once told me something I will never forget. Brother Tom told me to be a fair judge of people, you must not believe anyone if you never met them in person or know them personally. Brother Tom also said as a police officer, he never believed anything anyone said and about half of what he seen in writing. My words to you is to not take what you see in writing on the internet, and/or hear from those you don't know, or never met. Go out and conduct your own inquiry / investigation in person. Get the facts and then draw your own conclusions and make your own decisions.

As Freemasons, we take good men and make them better, we cannot take a bad man and make him good. This is why we investigate candidates we accept into our fraternity. We just don't accept anyone. If someone asked me for a petition for the degrees of Freemasonry via the internet and email I did not know him personally, he would not get one or my endorsement until I know him, or those who recommended him. This is why Freemasonry is the oldest and largest fraternity in the world. So Mote It Be.

Fraternally,
/s/
Terry, PM
Freemason
Hot Topics Moderator

Footnote: Here is our membership video if you are interested.
http://www.tryfreemasonry.com/video.php

The one thing that I've learn about mason's, from the time that I've been in the military and from all of my friends and associates that are masons, is that they have very special treatment. Mason's definitely take care of their own; after all, they are brothers. Mason's get jobs over non-masons, they get promoted over non masons and they get away with things that non masons can't get away with. This of course happens when mason's with authority are in a position to influence the process.

The army worked very hard on not letting this influence the promotion process by not allowing mason's to wear their ring in their DA photo and later to just the upper portion of the body being photographed. I'm sure some of you veterans can remember this big problem back in the 80s and 90s. It was all over the news about unqualified mason's being promoted ahead of their peers.
It still happens today, throughout the military and civilian world.
Let the truth be told, this is an organization built on the same fundamentals as any other organization or gang (I know I'll get a lot of flack about this one, but it is what it is)When an affiliation gets so strong that they can influence and control the actions of others and control the due process, then we have to call it what it is.
Sure they do charitable work, but all the other things they do border on pure evil hatred toward non participants. I'll stick with the Salvation Army and the Red Cross.

As I said in my previous posts, if you find anything in Masonry that is a problem to you, then just leave it alone, and walk away.

I have been a Mason for 25 years, and I have never received any special treatment of any kind. This does not include, the kindness and friendship, that I have been shown by brother Masons worldwide.

The average age of Masons is up in the mid-60's and these old guys do not have the influence to promote or hire; they are all retired.

I have never gotten out of a speeding ticket, or been given any special consideration in such things.

I cannot speak for all of Masonry. But I do not "hate" non-Masons. I do not hate the children that I transported to the Shriner's hospitals. I do not hate the children, whom my contributions support, in the Scottish Rite Children's speech clinics.

All mankind has a claim upon my good offices. Charity, forebearance, justice, morality, are all to be practiced towards all Mankind, regardless of masonic affiliation.

SO MOTE IT BE!

I can only speak what I have been exposed to. I'm glad to know that it's not all like that. I work for a contracting firm that is totally controlled by the mason's, they do not deny it one bit. I just recently applied for another higher position and I made the comment that I won't get it because I'm not wearing the ring and the response was, you're probably right. It happened to me a few months ago so I'm testing the waters again.
As far as being older to be a manager; we have managers in their 20s and 30s, nothing says that you have to be in your senior years to manage.
In fact our HR manager is around 35 and yep, you guessed it, he's a mason. I could tell you stories about what he has done, but I won't bore you with that.

Alot of the masonic smear campaigns are not intentional lies (some are). Their just words from people who don't know. I was on the Q&A section of a church web site the other night. They state that masons teach salvation by works ( good deeds). When i petitioned the lodge, they told me " you will not find salvation within freemasonry. If you want salvation, go to church". The fact is, masons do good works for the betterment of man, not salvation. The website goes on to say that the masons don't accept jesus as the son of god and savior. The fact is, going to lodge is not like going to church. Mason respect all faiths whether your a muslim, jewish,christian, ect. You personal religious beliefs are just that, personal.The website does however state that it's members are allowed to accept the services and good works of masonry. Kind of contradicting isn't it?

I for one am not a member of some Masonic Mafia.

All of us who are, or have been, active duty know that with the current state of affairs in the military that there are not any "good ol boy network" promotions anymore. Hadn't been for a long time, that stuff only happens in Washington.

Promotions in the military are all merit, education, and preformance based. Period.

As for looking out for one another, heck yes we do. ANY organization would do the same for it's members whether it be a college fraternity, a high school football team, a military unit or division.

I would hire someone I had been going to church with for 20 years over someone with the same qualifactions that just applied. Same goes for my neighbors, or someone I coached ball with. For no other reason than I know them.

The simple fact is that people in close association with one another go the extra mile for each other, that's all we do Masonically. We go the extra mile for our brothers and their families.

We do not however break the rules to extend that curtosy.

quote:

I'm sure some of you veterans can remember this big problem back in the 80s and 90s. It was all over the news about unqualified mason's being promoted ahead of their peers.

No. I don't remember it. Do you have a citation?

quote:

Originally posted by map3923:
The one thing that I've learn about mason's, from the time that I've been in the military and from all of my friends and associates that are masons, is that they have very special treatment. Mason's definitely take care of their own; after all, they are brothers. Mason's get jobs over non-masons, they get promoted over non masons and they get away with things that non masons can't get away with. This of course happens when mason's with authority are in a position to influence the process.

I'm sure some of you veterans can remember this big problem back in the 80s and 90s. It was all over the news about unqualified mason's being promoted ahead of their peers. It still happens today, throughout the military and civilian world.
Let the truth be told, this is an organization built on the same fundamentals as any other organization or gang (I know I'll get a lot of flack about this one, but it is what it is). When an affiliation gets so strong that they can influence and control the actions of others and control the due process, then we have to call it what it is.

I'll stick with the Salvation Army and the Red Cross.

This reminds me of a story. In an old western town, a criminal was being taken to the gallows. He said, everyone out to get him was a Mason including the judge. At the hangman's noose, the hooded sheriff at the gallows said, "I am sorry to hear that, now take one step with your left foot, bring the heel of the left to the heel of the right, stand erect."

The only thing I can say is if Masonic rings are not allowed in official military photographs, then the same should apply to Salvation Army and Red Cross rings. My brothers, what do think of this poster and what he has to say about our fraternity? I won't let my Masonic affiliations influence anyone.

Fraternally,
/s/
Terry, Past Master, 2004, 2005, 2008
32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason
Past Illustrious Master, Cryptic Masons
High Priest, York Rite Chapter No. 96
Generalisso, Knights Templar Commandry No. 39
Past President, Masters and Wardens Association
Special Deputy, Grand Council of Cryptic Masons
Hot Topics Moderator
"Proud to be a Freemason"

This message has been edited. Last edited by: TerryTCT,

Believe nothing you hear
Only half what you see
Do it on the fly
An' think on your feet.

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