From the East – February 2024
Greetings Brethren,
February includes many important dates to remember such as: President Washington’s Birthday, Presidents Day, Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday among others. As a nation we owe much to our first President and can learn much through his examples which embody the Masonic principles. One of the best known Freemasons, a leader and patriot without equal, George Washington was a surveyor, farmer, reluctant leader of the Continental Army and first President of the United States.
Throughout his life Washington was ambitious yet reluctant and humble. He achieved many successes through strength of character, determination, and persistence. He was quoted as saying “Masonry is founded in justice and benevolence.” And he believed “the grand object of Masonry is to promote the happiness of the human race.”
As we consider our first President let’s also consider the four Cardinal Virtues of Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence and Justice. Temperance is the use of restraint by controlling desires, whereas fortitude is the strength to withstand pressure and maintain secrecy. Prudence is wisdom and Justice is adherence to law, as well as personal judgement in our actions. These virtues and others were embraced and applied by Brother Washington throughout his life and are valuable lessons to each of us.
A final note on Washington is that the tradition of reciting the Pledge of Allegiance in the Lodge has been attributed to him.
Source: Creason Todd, Famous American Freemasons Volume 1, Moon and Sun, 2011
Short Talk Bulletin, Vol XXVIII, August 1950, No. 8.
Fraternally,
WM Hugh Christine