FROM THE EAST - JUNE
This is my last From the East message, and I thought I would share with you what I learned over the last 12 months. I eagerly entered the position of Worshipful Master with a grand plan full of events and programs that would continue Hillcrest’s Masonic traditions. I thought it quite likely we could sell our building and have a new home before Christmas. I looked forward to welcoming at least half a dozen new Masons to our lodge, having several skilled “A” certificate teachers, a history of Hillcrest members, and degree teams where everyone knew several parts. It didn’t take long to be reminded of the old joke, “How do you make God laugh? Tell Him your plans!”
Needless to say, most of what I wanted to do from the East never got off the ground. Before the end of the calendar year I was going through a divorce, and soon after that my company, like so many others, took a crippling financial hit where I was faced with losing just about everything I have ever worked for. My personal priorities shifted a bit in 2009, and I regret that I did not give Hillcrest the attention and effort I had intended. But all of that was necessary for me to learn the real lesson of Freemasonry.
When I was at my lowest point, where it seemed that everything I had done had failed or was about to fail, I learned where courage comes from and the meaning of real friendship. I realized I couldn’t achieve anything without the Divine Guidance of the Creator, so the past few months have strengthened my faith in Him, trusting Him with my life to serve His purpose. We may not always understand the reason for the events in our lives, but if we put our trust in the Supreme Architect of the Universe, we will find the courage to live out His purpose for us, even if we do not know what that purpose is. The constant support and love the Hillcrest Brethren showed me many, many times over the last few months renewed my strength and made me realize that no matter how bad I thought my situation was, I have friends to lean on for guidance, counsel, and cheer. We Freemasons are so fortunate to have each other.
Freemasonry is dedicated to the Brotherhood of Man under the All-Seeing Eye of God. My year as Worshipful Master proves that that principle is a reality to Masons. No matter where life takes us in our individual journeys, no matter what the Supreme Architect has in store for us, He has blessed us with each other. Friendship and Brotherhood are epitomized by the men of Hillcrest. I pray all Masons have the same spirit of brotherly love.
God Bless you and your families, Brothers. Thank you for one of the most wonderful years of my life. I feel truly blessed to have been your Worshipful Master, but more so to be your friend and brother. Thank you for sharing the true nature of Freemasonry.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Stuart Mason
Worshipful Master