Craft Meets Clinician

by Midnight Freemason Guest Contributor
Bro.Steve Leapman


The following discussion originated at South Bend, IN’s Council Oak # 745 in DEC 2019. The compiler of this Lodge Education delivered ”On Yonder Book” at a Master Mason’s Raising. Parallels between themes revealed here and the work of Dr. Erik Erikson are distinct. Both psychoanalyst and Craft poetry address human growth phases from womb to tomb. The reader is directed to two sources as we commence:

https://counsellingtutor.com/eriksons-stages-of-human-development/   and

https://www.simplypsychology.org/erik-erikson.html (Dr. Saul McLeod)

Erikson delineates eight stages through which a healthy individual develops during life.

  • Stage 1: Trust versus Mistrust

  • Stage 2: Autonomy versus Shame and Doubt

  • Stage 3: Initiative versus Guilt

  • Stage 4: Industry versus Inferiority

  • Stage 5: Ego Identity versus Role Confusion

  • Stage 6: Intimacy versus Isolation

  • Stage 7: Generativity versus Stagnation

  • Stage 8: Ego Integrity versus Despair

Optional Charge for The Master Mason Degree:

1: 

In Mason’s Lodge with darkened eyes / With cable tow about me, I swore to hale all mysteries, / That Masons keep, and Masons prize, All brothers’ secrets whispered low, / All words they speak, all things they do, In Mystic manner taught me.


On yonder Book that Oath I took, / And will I break it? Never! But stand by this, and this, and this, / Forever and forever. (Giving D-G and S. on the step of E.A. Degree)

2:

I swore to answer and obey, / All summons sent me duly, By Brothers’ hand or Lodge array, / I swore that would never stray, From Ancient laws and rules that bound, / Freemasons in days renowned,            But would observe them truly. (On Yonder Book that Oath I took, etc. … as above and giving D-G and S. on the step of F.C. Degree)                                                                                  

3:

I swore to lead with generous care, / All those in sorrow hidden, A brother on the darkened square, / the mourners with disheveled hair,  The orphan doomed alas to stray, / Upon a rough and rugged way,           While tears gush forth unbidden. (On Yonder Book, etc. … giving D-G and S. on the step of M.M. Degree)

4:

The swore to deal in honesty, / With each true heart around me, That Honor … bright should ever be, / Unbroken bond ‘tween him and me, Nor wrong, nor guile, nor cruel fraud, / Should ever break the sacred cord, By which my vows have bound me.  (On Yonder Book, etc. … giving D-G of all three Degrees – one with each “this”)  

5: 

I swore the Portals close to guard, / Of the Masonic Temple, To rid the quarries of their dross, / To build each mystic wall across, With body perfect, upright heart, / And mind mature in moral art, In Precept and example.(On Yonder Book, etc. … pointing to Greater and Lesser Lights and letter “G” at each “this”)


6:

In swore the Chastity to guard, / Of woman, true and tender, Of Mason’s widow, wife or child, / His mother or sister, undefiled. To them I pledge a brother’s love, / By Him who rules the Lodge above,           To be a true defender.  (On Yonder Book, etc. …  giving Distress sign and one motion with each “this”)

7:

My Brother (or Brothers): / They are your Vows, be they your cares.  And may such aid be given, / In answer to your earnest prayer, That you may ever do and dare, / All that God’s gracious Laws enjoin.On yonder Book these Oaths we took, / And will we break them? Never! But stand by this, and this, and this, / Forever and forever. (Have candidates join with you in giving D-G and S on the step of all three degrees – one with each “this”) 

(Indiana Monitor and Freemason’s Guide, pp. 105-107)          

Life can often seem haphazard. Our limited perspective is illuminated by a concept in Christian scripture: "While we are on this side of the sun, we see dimly" (1 Corinthians 13:12). Perhaps one day we will expand our gaze beyond the limitations of the present. However, what we don't plan and what we don't expect may lead us precisely where we need to be. Action leads to clarity. Make a decision and take a step forward. Each day, diligently consult your personal "trestle board" - a list of tasks or goals. Labor is a form of prayer that reveals your true identity.

Floor work undeniably displays Masonic identity. As an eager Senior Steward at the time of these reflections, I sought guidance from an insightful Brother. "What could I do to support Lodge ritual?" I inquired. Council Oak Lodge #745 Past Master Mike Koziel directed me to "On Yonder Book."

My faith tells me such counsel was not a coincidence. Brother Mike is a serious man who cherishes Freemasonry. Did I know what was intended when I requested his advice? Of course not! But I am responsible for following such direction. Why else waste this good Brother's valuable time?

And so, I was given the honor of delivering "On Yonder Book." What lessons did this opportunity offer? I explored the verses and their imperatives. As a mental health professional, I was reminded of Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, which maps stages of human growth along a "Level of Time." These stages are examined alongside Jewish liturgical passages. Prior to moving to Texas, I was an Indiana Mason and utilized the Indiana Ritual. I eagerly traversed Erikson's understandings applied through a fascinating Masonic lens and the insights of Dr. Saul McLeod.

Recall Stanza One. A new arrival encounters our Craft rather young in his Masonic journey. He faces "Trust vs. Mistrust." Here, child and candidate begin to develop and establish the ability to determine if they are safe or best be cautious. "Am I safe within myself and amongst others?"

As youngsters of age and Craft, we learn the ways and wiles of speech. Our focus is quite significant: "How shall we speak to others, more so, how do we speak to ourselves?" We recognize the tension and uncertainty beneath silence. Entered Apprentices have a new yet timely style of language to learn. Through delivery and acceptance of speech, we build community and hopefully, fraternal bonds as well. We move beyond self and self-absorption. The words of Arthur Schopenhauer resonate: "Everyman takes the limits of his own vision for the limits of the world." (Studies in Pessimism, Quotes by Arthur Schopenhauer)

According to Dr. McLeod's understanding, the child emerges from this stage with "Hope." This is what we intend for all new Brothers. Hope will inspire him to construct that unique Temple which is his best self. Likewise, the dutiful Mason claims a role in those domains which deserve and thus acquire his loyalty.

Stanza Two depicts tasks arising between candidate and Craft. We arrive at "Intimacy vs. Isolation." Civic consciousness is not a flaccid admission that others have needs. Civic accountability has no roots in mood nor its perpetuity maintained by opinion. Good men uphold citizenship as a duty. Obligations are avenues of opportunity. We embrace the world within. We discover zeal to participate in all that each sunrise reveals on a man's Trestle Board. Masons at Labor are Brothers at worship.

Freemasonry proclaims that to build within is to contribute outwardly. Chasidic Rabbis taught, "Human beings are God's language!" Divine Revelation may be as simply stated as honest professional duty buttressed by humane conduct.

While Speculatively Masonic by title and pronouncement, we possess an elaborate Operative heritage enshrining work as service and a way of life. One cannot be a Mason only in his head or his heart. Deeds are sacramental.

Through Dr. McLeod's insights, Erikson shapes authentic "Love" as a noun and verb. Masonry teaches that "Love" is not simply sentimentality. We are Brothers who gather through Divine injunctions expressed allegorically through Fellow Craft tools. We meet upon each Level. We act by every Plumb. We part upon our Square. Further, when the Lodge is dark, the Warden in the South keeps watch.                                   

Much in life appears haphazard. Our limited view is clarified by a notion in Christian Holy Writ for we read while this side of the sun we see but dimly. Perhaps one day we shall expand the gaze finitude restricts. However, what we do not plan and all we do not expect may lead us precisely where we need to be. Action leads to clarity. Make a decision and find a mirror. Duly search each day’s Trestle Board. Labor is prayer which discloses identity. 

Floor Work undeniably displays Masonic identity. As an eager Senior Steward at the time of these thoughts, I sought guidance of an insightful Brother, “What could I do to support Lodge Ritual?” Council Oak # 745 Past Master Mike Koziel directed me to “On Yonder Book.” 

My faith tells me such counsel was not happenstance. Brother Mike is a serious man who cherishes Masonry. Did I know what was intended when I requested his advice? Of course not! But I am response-able to such direction. Well else why waste this good Brother’s valuable time? 

And so, I was given the honor of delivering “On Yonder Book.” What lessons did this opportunity offer? I explored the verses and their imperatives. As a mental health professional, I was reminded Erikson plotted a trajectory of development along the Level of Time. These Stages are examined alongside Jewish liturgical passages. Prior to moving to Texas, I was a Hoosier Mason and drew upon Indiana Ritual. I eagerly traversed Erikson’s understandings applied through a fabulous Masonic reflection and the insights of Dr. Saul McLeod. 

Stanza Three confronts the inevitable: life's impermanence. Death is uncompromising; its arrival is certain. Masons model steadfastness in the face of this reality, honoring the fallen and supporting the bereaved. Erikson's "Integrity vs. Despair" challenges us to consider how our lives will be remembered.

Will our years intertwine like pillars supporting a grand structure? We hope wisdom characterizes our later decades. We strive to avoid the regret of wasted time. Erikson's "Generativity vs. Stagnation" prompts us to assess the meaningfulness of our actions. Have we lived with purpose or merely existed? This stage teaches the importance of care and compassion. By living fully, we avoid the bitterness of a life deemed insignificant.

"Care" and "Wisdom" echo Masonic and Biblical principles: support for widows and orphans. Selfishness is shortsighted. Egotism undermines true fulfillment. Wisdom, rooted in eternity, shapes character. It encourages selfless acts, transforming the rough edges of our being into a refined stone fitting within the eternal structure. The focus shifts from "me" to something greater.

Stanza Four emphasizes morality as society's binding force. The engaged Mason is no passive observer of others' behavior. Such a Mason shudders at indifference, recognizing it as a moral failing. He must actively participate in his community, a worthy member capable of offering a helping hand. To paraphrase a familiar Masonic saying, "Don't just talk about it; be about it!"

As young Masons, we learn that words have consequences. Our speech reflects our character and commitment to others. Can we truly trust those with whom we gather? Skillful rhetoric alone does not guarantee integrity. Actions, marked by decency, patience, and respect, are essential.

Erikson, as interpreted by Dr. McLeod, calls this "Fidelity." It arises from a conscious choice to live with integrity amidst life's challenges. Honor is Fidelity in action. Masonic life demands more than intellectual assent; it requires embodied practice. Stagnation occurs when we fail to translate thoughts into actions.

Meaningless years result from a lack of purpose and identity. Our response to adversity shapes our character and future actions. The Masonic principle "As Above, So Below" reminds us that our inner world reflects our outer life.

While often associated with adolescence, "Identity vs. Role Confusion" is a lifelong challenge for Masons. Honor is not a fleeting moment but a consistent choice. It requires commitment, maturity, and ethical behavior. Without honor, fidelity becomes mere pretense.

The military values of "Honor, Courage, and Commitment" align with Masonic ideals. These principles apply to all branches of the armed forces and their families. As Masons and citizens, we strive to embody fidelity as taught in the Entered Apprentice Degree. Through character and craft, we rise above our base instincts. 

Stanza Five tackles "Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt." Shame loses its power when we embrace truth, regardless of age. Masonic autonomy is not anarchy. Our Book of Genesis depicts the triumph of order over chaos, the healing of a broken cosmos.

Our status as God's children is validated by using our compasses to restrain desires and channel passions. Through honest work, we become worthy citizens. We remove emotional hindrances that impede our growth and talents.

As Masons of faith, we acknowledge our Grand Benefactor and uphold freedom of conscience. Each Mason has the right and duty to deepen their connection with the divine. Neglecting this covenant weakens our skills and can harm others.

These abilities emerge under the guidance of our Grand Architect. Stanza Five emphasizes self-governance over mind and body. We hone our skills to navigate life's journey. We follow the admonition to walk uprightly through life's various stages.

Even in private struggles, our choices reveal the core of our character. Every Mason is obligated to build their own inner sanctum, a source of strength for themselves and those who rely on them. This duty applies to all roles we play, be it father, spouse, brother, businessman, coach, parishioner, or volunteer. We are constantly observed in these civic duties.

Our choices, big or small, point to our "Will." We harness this will to overcome hidden pain and face our inner demons. For the Mason, Freemasonry is more about self-reflection than social status or grandeur. "Worldly wealth and honors" do not reveal the essence of a soul.

Judaism's morning liturgy, Asher Yatzar, views the human body as architecture. As Masons bound by scripture, we can learn from how Jeremiah begins his writings: God shapes us, just as Freemasonry shapes character.

Before birth, each life is conceived with intention. We enter this world to contribute meaningful deeds and leave it a better place. We are heirs to Hiram Abiff, whose station in the Grand South represented beauty. We emulate him for our own spiritual benefit.

Our morning prayers express gratitude for health and acknowledge our civic responsibilities. One phrase suggests: without order and purpose, we wouldn't be able to stand before God. This translates to communal accountability and personal decency.

Physical well-being supports spiritual and emotional strength. We strive to be humble workers on projects that transcend our lifetimes. Though impermanent, our service has meaning. We don't need to know the ultimate outcome of serving a higher power.

Antigonus of Socho teaches us to serve not for reward, but out of a sense of duty and reverence. We are called to act, regardless of the outcome. We serve a boundless purpose. This is our "Will," our intention.

Modern culture often fails to cultivate the three human dimensions that Freemasonry emphasizes: Will, Intention, and Purpose. Trite distractions and entertainment can lead to complacency. As Masons, we seek meaning beyond fleeting amusement. This must be our unwavering commitment.

Scottish Rite terminology, with its "Lodge of Perfection," can be misleading to modern ears dulled by superficiality. How can a Lodge claim "perfection" yet require a pledge of fidelity?

Let's use history to move forward! Hebrew sheds light on the concept of "perfection." Unlike English, it allows for a more nuanced understanding. In older languages, "perfection" is closer to "wholeness" or "completion." As Masons, we strive to attract God's attention to our endeavors, inspired by the divine presence within each of us. Freemasonry upholds freedom of conscience in this pursuit.

These attributes – zeal of mind, body, and morality – combine in our service to God. We admire not the "perfect" ashlar, but the process of transforming a rough stone. Freemasonry values artisans who see their work not just as production, but as a transformative journey.

Stanza Six emphasizes truthfulness. Courage falters without honesty. Just as Pharaoh's heart hardened, so too can ours when we prioritize social acceptance over integrity. Empty popularity offers no true reward. Do we seek the approval of Caesar or Heaven? What does our Masonic level truly symbolize?

A life built on sacrificing self-respect for fleeting approval leads to regret. Temporary fame provides no lasting foundation for pride. While chivalry might seem outdated, it embodies essential virtues. Erikson's "Industry vs. Inferiority" challenges us to build a strong sense of self. Strong values guide our actions and lead to fulfilling work. Those who choose otherwise risk a life of mediocrity.

True manhood requires fortitude, not force. Masons are present and engaged, but sometimes silence is the best response. Circumstances may demand action over words. Authentic competence protects the dignity of all.

It is not enough to simply speak out against abuse; we must actively prevent it. Women deserve true brotherhood from all men, especially Masons. A good man upholds the principles of Stanza Six. I embrace this traditional ethos as essential.

Upright Masons experience courage as more than mere strength. It arises from overcoming self-centeredness and embracing intimacy. We prioritize the well-being of others. Our enemies are those who undermine democracy and oppress the innocent. Masonic love transcends mere physical attraction. It is a commitment to the sanctity of others.

This stanza's core is love, as taught by Erikson. We move beyond self-focus and dedicate ourselves to the well-being of others. Defending innocence may risk our reputation or even our lives, but true worth is measured by immortality, following the example of Hiram Abiff.

Stanza Seven highlights the importance of purpose. We gather to support our newly raised Brother, recognizing the significance of every life. Erikson's "Initiative vs. Guilt" encourages us to take action and contribute to worthy causes. Hesitation and inaction lead to regret and self-doubt.

The Master Mason degree marks a soul's journey toward fulfillment. While the newly raised Mason may not fully grasp this transformation, it occurs within the sacred space of the Lodge. We support this growth, witnessing a rebirth of sorts. The focus remains on the individual and their personal journey.

We may wonder about the ultimate outcome of our efforts, but self-centeredness hinders our progress. Hiram Abiff's legacy exemplifies the importance of character over fame. Our Masonic journey may not yield immediate recognition, but our actions lay the foundation for future generations.

Can our work impact those who come after us? Can our daily actions resonate through centuries? While these possibilities are inspiring, our primary focus is the work at hand. Serving for the sake of serving is its own reward. We must overcome childish impulses and climb the Masonic ladder, even when it is challenging.

Self-discovery emerges as we face life's challenges. Doubt and indecision may arise, but perseverance is key. Like our Grand Master, we may encounter setbacks, but we press forward. Our actions contribute to a better society and a stronger self. Freemasonry lifts the human spirit, regardless of external rewards. Our "secrets" protect the sacredness of our inner journey. True recognition comes from within and from a higher power.

Our Craft guides us toward a fulfilling life. We must act, not just think or feel. As builders, we use the tools provided to create a life of meaning and purpose. Our efforts may face challenges, but they ultimately lead to a richer existence. We are called to inspire noble deeds and greater achievements. So Mote It Be!

~SP

Steven M. Leapman was raised in 1996 at what was then Blackmer # 442 in San Diego, CA when serving as a Navy Chaplain. He sees himself as a “returned Mason” come home to active participation in Masonry through MW John R. Heisner Lodge #442. He joined Council Oak Lodge # 745 in South Bend, IN serving as Junior Warden when in 2021 he and his wife moved to San Antonio, TX. There he was warmly welcomed into the Masonic community once again and has become a member of Davy Crockett # 1225 where he serves as Lodge Chaplain. He also serves as Senior Deacon at Antonio’s Triune # 15. He is a member of Northern Masonic Jurisdiction and Southern Masonic Jurisdiction as a 32d Degree Mason. As a member of the San Antonio Scottish Rite community has served as Degree Master for Prince of The Tabernacle 24th Degree and supports the presentation of other degrees during Reunions. He actively attends monthly Continuing Masonic Education Zoom sessions and hopes to write deserving reflections on our beloved Craft. Brother Steve attended American University in Washington, DC in 1981 and 1984 earning degrees in Literature. He attended Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion where in 1990 he graduated with a Master’s in Hebrew Letters (MHL) and was ordained a Rabbi in Cincinnati, OH in 1991. Brother Steve served in the US Navy/ USMC Chaplaincy from 1993-2000. Later he returned to the military community as a mental health professional with the Veterans Administration in Indiana and Texas. He graduated from Indiana University South Bend in 2008. He has been involved with Civilian and Military/Veterans’ Care since then.

Masonic Illini Nation

by Midnight Freemason Guest Contributor
WB Vance Martin



Illini Grotto and its home lodge, Mahomet #220, were honored to welcome their newest member: Head Coach Brad Underwood of the Illinois Fighting Illini men’s basketball team. It seemed only fitting, given our Illini pride. 

It all started a few months ago when the college basketball season was heating up. Before the NCAA tournament, we (Vance Martin and Joe Turngren) were talking about the Illini team. It came up that Coach Underwood was a Mason and about a year before had received his 25-year certificate from the Grand Lodge of Kansas, presented by the Grand Master of Illinois.  We decided to reach out and offer him a membership in the still rather new Illini Grotto, and in Mahomet Lodge because of its connection to the grotto.  After several discussions on how we might do this, we brought it before the grotto and the lodge.  Unsurprisingly both bodies voted unanimously in favor of this idea, so we had to work on details and logistics.

We each worked on letters from our respective bodies, offering Brother Underwood membership in Illini Grotto and honorary membership in Mahomet Lodge.  We also reached out to those involved in his 25-year certificate presentation for guidance on contacting such a public figure.  Through those channels, we contacted the coach’s assistant with our offer and waited.  She responded a few days later that the coach was willing.  The next step was to work with Grand Lodge and Supreme Grotto to get everything in place.  Secretary Steve Rinkel worked with Grand Lodge for the honorary Mahomet membership.  Vance worked with the fez company and Supreme Grotto to have everything in hand.  

We were excited to set up an appointment to present Brother Underwood with his membership certificates.  We all got there early and waited until the appointed time.  We spoke with the coach’s assistant, who went to get him.  We were all rather nervous, as we wanted to present him with several things and have him sign the lodge registry and the grotto charter.  We relaxed when he came out with a friendly greeting, and invited us all back to his office.  We all chatted for a few minutes, and then Steve and Joe had him sign the Mahomet Lodge membership register, which goes back to 1877.  They presented him with his certificate, card, and a Mahomet 220 apron.  Vance and Joe had him sign the Illini Grotto charter, then presented him with his Illini pin, grotto pin, the immediate Past Monarch’s pin, an Illini decal, his certificate, and fez.  They made sure he was a prophet in due form.  

Coach Underwood was very appreciative and kept looking at everything we presented him as his assistant took pictures.  We spoke about masonry and basketball.  He told us about his father-in-law in Kansas who got him into Freemasonry.  We can also expect him to appear at some of our Illini Grotto tailgates this fall.

Masonry is the mystic tie that binds us, allowing brothers who have never met to have a bond.  This was evident as we celebrated our Masonic Illini fraternity.      

~VM


Vance S. Martin is Past Master of Mahomet No. 220 in Mahomet (IL).  He is the current and charter Monarch of Illini Grotto and 1st Vice President of the Illinois State Grotto Association.  Currently, he is working on forming a grotto association for those who play Dungeons and Dragons.  Vance holds various offices in Champaign Chapter 50, Urbana Council 19, Urbana Commandry 16, and Eastern Illinois AMD 356.  He is a member of East Central York Rite Sovereign College 81. 


Troward:The Hidden Power - Part 2

by Midnight Freemason Guest Contributor
Bro. Mark St. Cyr



Part 2: **The Central Principle of Life  

What is the central principle at the root of all things? It is Life. But not just the life we see in different forms; it’s something deeper and more unified. This "unity of the spirit" is pure and undivided because it hasn't yet diversified. This might seem abstract, but it's the foundation of all scientific understanding of spirit.  Without it, we can't explain the countless forms that spirit takes. 

Life, in this sense, is the sum of all its manifestations. It isn't any one thing specifically, but it holds the potential for everything. This is a highly abstract concept, but it's about the core from which growth happens, expanding in every direction. This core is "the unknowable" – not because it can't be thought of, but because it can't be fully analyzed. It's something we perceive rather than understand through relationships and comparisons. We've moved beyond questions of relationships and are faced with the absolute. 

At its innermost, this is absolute Spirit. It's Life that hasn't yet differentiated into  any specific form; it's the universal life at the heart of all appearances.  Understanding this is key to unlocking the true power and accessing the core of the Living Spirit. Some might argue it's contradictory to call this "the unknowable"  and then talk about understanding it. Yet, even St. Paul wrote about exploring the depths and heights of the inner side of things to attain the knowledge of love that surpasses understanding. If he could embrace such seemingly illogical  phrasing, we can also speak of knowing "the unknowable." This knowledge is the foundation of all other knowledge. 

This undifferentiated universal life is the ultimate fact that all analysis must lead to. Regardless of the level of analysis, it must always come down to pure essence, pure energy, pure being – something that knows and recognizes itself but cannot be broken down into parts because it is fundamentally whole. Pure  Unity. Analysis without synthesis is destructive; it’s like a child pulling a flower to pieces and discarding the fragments instead of understanding the flower's construction and appreciating the vast synthesis of nature's power that the flower represents. The value of analysis is to lead us back to the original point of what we study and teach us the laws that guide its formation. 

Understanding the construction's laws, we can reverse our analysis to gain the  power to build, always reaching beyond the limits of those who see "the  unknowable" as synonymous with “nothingness." 

This idea of the unknowable is the root of all materialism. Yet, no scientist,  regardless of their materialistic tendencies, treats the unanalysable residue in their experiments as nothing. Instead, they use this final unanalyzable fact as the basis for their synthesis. They find that in the end, it is some form of energy,  whether as heat or motion. They don’t abandon their scientific pursuits because they can't analyze it further. Instead, they embrace it, understanding that energy's conservation, indestructibility, and the impossibility of adding or subtracting from the world's total energy are the unchanging facts on which physical science is built. They base all their knowledge on their understanding of  "the unknowable." And rightly so, for even if they could analyze this energy  further, they would encounter the same problem of "the unknowable." Our progress involves continuously pushing the boundaries of the unanalysable,  always a step further back. But the idea that there could be no ultimate unanalysable residue is inconceivable. 

By realizing the undifferentiated unity of the Living Spirit as the central fact of any system, whether it be the entire universe or a single organism, we follow a  strictly scientific method. Our analysis leads us to this final fact, and then we accept it as the basis for synthesis. The Science of Spirit is just as scientific as the Science of Matter. Both start from the same initial fact: the fact of living energy, which defies definition or explanation. However, the Science of Spirit considers this energy under the aspect of responsive intelligence, which is outside the scope of physical science. The Sciences of Spirit and Matter are not opposed; they complement each other. Neither is fully comprehensible without some knowledge of the other, and they merge into one another in a borderland where no arbitrary line can be drawn. True scientific study reveals the dual aspect of things: the inner and the outer. Only a truncated and incomplete science refuses to acknowledge this. 

Studying the material world is not materialism if it progresses to its legitimate end. Materialism is the limited view that denies the existence of anything beyond mechanical effects and causes. A system that recognizes no higher power than physical force will ultimately resort to physical force or fraud as its highest appeal. I speak of the system's tendency, not the morality of individuals, who often surpass the systems they profess. History shows us the dangers of materialistic thought, whether in the Italy of the Borgias, the France of the First  Revolution, or the Commune of the Franco-Prussian War. To avoid these destructive tendencies, we must embrace the study of the inner and spiritual aspects of life, which leads to truth and love instead of deceit and violence. Some may wonder why the New Jerusalem is described in the Book of  Revelations as a cube, with "the length and the breadth and the height of it  equal." This is because the cube represents perfect stability, with all sides balanced. It signifies the manifestation of that central life-giving energy, which is not any one plane but generates all planes. It is the above and below and all four sides. At the same time, it is a city, a place of habitation, because the "within" is  Living Spirit, which resides there. 

Just as one plane of the cube implies all other planes, any manifestation implies others and the "within" that generates them. To progress in the spiritual side of science – and every science has its spiritual aspect – we must focus on this  "innermost within" that generates the cube. Our common language reflects this intuitive understanding. We speak of the spirit within, the spirit of a thing, the spirit of the times, and so on. Recognizing this animating spirit, we should understand it from within, rather than from without, to grasp its true nature. Thus, every symbol of a spiritual fact has its foundation in living reality, the same principle that flashes upon us intermittently and vaguely. We may realize that this universal and unlimited power of the spirit will manifest individually when we are attuned to the whole. Regardless of how far we go in our studies of spiritual science, we will find only particular expressions of this one universal life. The  "Unity of the Spirit" is the key. 

By understanding and embracing this unity, we unlock the deeper truths that lie at the heart of all existence, guiding us toward a more profound and comprehensive understanding of life and the universe.

**Denotes a subtitle added for a more contemporary feel that was not included or used in the original work. 

Adapted from the original work: Troward, T. (1921). The Hidden Power, and other papers upon Mental science. Robert M. McBride & Company.  All Material Cited is Free Use within the Public Domain.


~MSC

Masonic Travel & Living a Masonic Life


By Midnight Freemason Emeritus Contributor
R.H. Johnson


Well, I’m writing this while on the last leg home from a trip to Eugene Oregon, where I was humbled to present and overjoyed to share in fellowship with Eugene Lodge No. 11


I arrived Friday and had dinner with Worshipful Brother Andre Cvitanich. I ate, probably the best burger I’ve had in years— so let’s say the trip would have been amazing even if it were just that conversation over lemonade and burgers. 


As the late Billy Mays always said, “But wait, there’s more!”


After dinner, WB Andre took me on an evening tour of Eugene Lodge No. 11 


The building itself was their third home. The first, a glorious purpose-built giant white mansion of a lodge, was taken by the government under eminent domain laws. Their second home, a smaller, yet still magnificent building, was also eventually taken under the same laws. 




Finally, Eugene Lodge found a permanent home in their third building, all three mind you, were purpose-built for Masonry. 


An amazing artifact the lodge had was a Trestle Board or Carpet made by John Sherer. It had recently needed some TLC, so it was laid out while a new frame was being custom-built by WB. Andre. The carpet itself is a rare item. There’s a lot to, “geek out on” with this item, and I could, but I’ll let Chad Kopenski of OH do that eventually. 



WB. Andre was humble about what he said was their small lodge. It wasn’t small. It was exactly right. A wonderful atmosphere, where care and thought was evident in just about every part of the building. After the tour, I checked into the hotel and went upstairs for some writing before heading to bed. 


The next day started at high noon when we arrived back at the lodge. I met a Past Grand Lodge Historian, Michael. He was a wealth of information and to be honest, a damn inspiration. He’s written a bunch books on local history, biographies on men of Oregon AASR who’ve had honors and high honors, and a bunch more. He was gracious enough to give me a copy of one of his books—autographed of course!


After some great conversation, we had an awesome lunch. As masons, we love to fellowship and that happens over food. But I’ve often wondered why we don’t have more healthy options. WB Andre put out a spread of breads, fruits, lunch meats, and cheeses. I know some of you might think, “Yeah yeah—sandwiches.” But guys, I mean it. It was a welcomed, wholesome, and blessed meal. I rarely eat before doing a talk. I ate. 


After the talk, we all engaged in discourse, and midway through, it was discovered that about an hour away, there was going to be an outdoor EA degree on a ranch owned by a Past Grand Master of OR. And you know what? We went. In my home jurisdiction of IL, I’ve been a part of, and sat on the sidelines of several annual outdoor degrees, but it’s always a Master Mason degree. I’d never seen an Entered Apprentice degree. 


The windshield masonry on the way to the ranch was outstanding. I think WB. Andre and I solved about every problem there is. Notably, I think we solved all the problems related to the Royal Arch system. ;)


Once we arrived, all I can say is, “Wow.” The land was lush. The surrounding forest, yeah I said forest, was green and mysterious. The birds were singing and the wind was blowing. The trees swayed above and the weather was 70 degrees. Perfect? By all accounts, it was as close as I could imagine to perfection. 


The degree was wonderful. Spoiler alert—the Oregonian work is SUPER SIMILAR to Illinoisan work. There are some significant chunks here or there that were added or removed but the work I heard, I could lip sync to. I have to give a shoutout to a Brother I met named Brian Tipsword. He gave the EA lecture and he did it with such care, meaning and intent, that I was able to witness the candidate make connections during the lecture. It’s what we all hope to accomplish when doing these lectures and Bro. Brian did just that. A different Brother, Mike, did the charge to the candidate and again, care and intent led to a meaningful connection by the candidate. 


After the degree, the fellowship began again! Would you believe they grilled everyone's steaks? Yeah. Delightful cuts of choice beef and served with beans, slaws, salads, and watermelon— it was just wholesome. 


After all that, more windshield Freemasonry. WB. Andre and I reflected on intentional and meaningful masonry in our conversations and we also had some great comparisons of rituals. They did this, and we do that. But we figured out that both our dispensation grants for IL and OR came from MO. So is it any wonder why our ritual was so similar? Oh yeah, and if that wasn’t enough - we got a rainbow on the way home :)




I got back to the hotel about 10 PM. No writing to do, so I sat back reflected on the weekend, and went to bed. The next day, I was traveling home. 


Truly, there is nothing better than getting out there and visiting other lodges for fellowship and education. It feeds the soul. It reinvigorates your call to the Craft. You just feel good. This trip to Eugene was wonderful. May the Brothers of Eugene No. 11 continue to grow, to teach, to lead by example. Eugene No. 11 wasn’t the only lodge in the area making waves that will lead to this Fraternity becoming better. Pearl Lodge and McKenzie River are all making strides. Thank you, Brothers!!  


~RHJ


RWB Johnson is an Emeritus Managing Editor of the Midnight Freemasons blog. He is a Freemason out of the 2nd N.E. District of Illinois. He currently serves as the Worshipful Master of Spes Novum Lodge No. 1183. He is a Past Master of Waukegan Lodge 78 (and sitting Secretary) and a Past District Deputy Grand Master for the 1st N.E. District of Illinois. He is the current V:. Sovereign Grand Inspector for the AMD in IL. Brother Johnson currently produces and hosts weekly Podcasts (internet radio programs) Whence Came You? & Masonic Radio Theatre which focuses on topics relating to Freemasonry. He is also a co-host of The Masonic Roundtable, a Masonic talk show. He is a husband and father of four, works full time in the executive medical industry. He is the co-author of "It's Business Time - Adapting a Corporate Path for Freemasonry", "The Master's Word: A Short Treatise on the Word, the Light, and the Self - Annotated Edition" and author of "How to Charter a Lodge: A No-Nonsense, Unsanctioned Guide. More books are on the way.