The Young Man Meditates

Masonry promised me nothing except opportunity for mental and spiritual growth and the opportunity to be serviceable to God and man.

I came of my own free will and accord as all men in all ages have done. I was received as all others have been received in the ages past.

I learned that Masonry is interested in the character of man in man as a thinking, feeling being.

I learned that Masonry is not religion in the sense that we think of the church but that it is a form of worship and the true ally of all religions. I found that one grows stronger in his own religion, whatever it may be, as the result of Masonry.

I learned the real meaning of moral and spiritual teachings of charity, and that one’s integrity of mind and soul is his most precious possession. All that I learned before was enhanced by the manner in which Masonry teaches sublime lessons.

About me I see brothers, some young in Masonry, others who have been Masons for many years. Toward all I feel a bond of friendship and fellowship which is indescribable. To have the confidence of such a group of brothers, and to know that you are joined to them by immutable bonds, as you are to every Mason in the world is indeed a priceless privilege.

All of this I learned; and I learned as well, that to maintain and to perpetuate all that I have received, I must give back my best to Masonry and to society.

--ANONYMOUS