Question 2: Why are you so passionate about Masonry?
This is the easiest question to answer. And requires no build up, background, or research.
Because I want to wake up every day knowing that I can, have, and will continue to make a difference in this world.
I don't think I can possibly be the only one in the world who, when confronted with his own mortality, has wondered "if the powers that be saw fit to take me now, what would I leave behind?"
Me personally; a lot of Lego, Funko Pops, watches, a house, car, and many other material things that ultimately my wife would be left to deal with. But when someone is asked to eulogize me, do I want them to say "he left his wife with a lot of $#!t to clean up after"? Or do I want them to say "he left us with all that he could. And so long as we remember him, and remember him well, we will always have the man we loved". Do I want to leave my family and friends with memories of a man they loved, respected, and appreciated? Absolutely.
Because when we're gone, what is truly left behind is the memory of our lives. I, for one, want to leave them with memories they can be comforted by. I want to be that man for them.
Because I wear a fez, I’m fortunate enough that I get to wake up every day knowing that I’ve made a difference in a child’s life; even if I never meet them.
Because of Masonry, I’m fortunate enough that I get to wake up every day and have a dozen guys at my back, willing to throw down for me, support me in times of distress, and even kick my @$$ when the occasion has called for it. I’m fortunate enough that I have these men to teach me, guide me, grow with me, and even let me teach and guide them from time to time.
I am fortunate enough to be a brother. I am fortunate enough to be a Mason.