York Rite College

Illinois York Rite College #15

Last night I was inducted into the Illinois York Rite College #15.

It was an amazing night.  When I walked into the room, it was filled with many of the Masons whom I have come to respect and admire.  Whom I consider to be most of the movers and shakers of Masonry in the Metro area.

The degree itself was quite amazing, but the most important thing is that it really made me reflect on my journey in Freemasonry.  We hear over and over in our obligations about how we are supposed to live our lives, but how many of us, truly live by those words that we hear.  One thing that was mentioned a number of time is, "remember, you are obligated ... "

I have written before in the past about this, but for the first time, I had it pointed out to me at a masonic meeting that this was a fact.  I am obligated.  Perhaps, because I do take my obligations seriously, I am asked to become a part of these esteemed organizations.

I desire light in Masonry, I truly do.  I want to live my life according to the obligations which I hear and swear to.  I want to conduct my good works, for the mere reason that it is the good and right thing to do.

Due to an incident that took place that evening, I was reminded by several brothers, that this is a volunteer organization.  We do what we do for fun and pleasure, fellowship and community, patriotism and personal pride.  But there are those who do not always see things that way.  They do things for the name on the certificate, the new pin, the colored hat, the new title, seat on a line, the pat on the back and they expect others to be motivated by that same desire.

I do things because I want to do them and if no one noticed, It would not change what I did or how I do it.  I do things to help true and trusted Brothers in their laudable undertakings, in hopes that they would do the same for me some day.  I do things because it is fun and feels good to see other people get enjoyment out of my works.  I do things because I am obligated to do them for the good of the Craft and my fellow man.  I am motivated by knowing I did the right thing.

That same night, I was reminded of that very concept in my degree.  I am amazed at how circumstance or fate or whatever it is that brings those things together at just the right time, to add to my life long journey of learning.  I hope to continue that journey and see what amazements will present themselves to fill my life.