Ahh Summertime!
The Lodge goes on refreshment…
Most levels of schools are closed…
More people are on vacation…
The Highways are congested more often…
Late night little league games…
The smell of BBQ is in the air…
Do these statements make you think differently about what it is to be present and in the moment? What do they all have in common that so many people overlook? The tools given to us as Masons enable us to focus our attention and be more present in the moment during the summer. Keeping our passions within due bounds is almost a supernatural gift to guard ourselves against anything that isn’t aligned with your growth. It appears as if our time in the summer allows us to practice the tenets of our institution in a different way. Giving us the valuable opportunity of being present every day during this period. Summertime is a season that brings warmth, not only in temperature, but in the hearts of people, offering a perfect opportunity to spread kindness among family and friends. The long, sunny days invite us to slow down and cherish moments with our loved ones, creating memories that last a lifetime. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, can significantly enhance these experiences, fostering deeper connections and a sense of togetherness.
It’s a time for us as Masons to reflect on our values of integrity, charity, and fellowship, while also enjoying social activities and family-oriented events. Whether organizing fundraisers, participating in local parades, or simply sharing a meal, summertime allows us to visibly practice our commitment to bettering ourselves and our communities, embodying the principles of this ancient and honorable fraternity.
In essence, summertime offers countless opportunities to nurture relationships through kindness. By reaching out, being present, and giving back, we create a ripple effect of goodwill that can last far beyond the warm days of summer, enriching our lives and those of our loved ones.
My Brothers, I leave you with this…
“Neither a lofty degree of intelligence nor imagination nor both together go to the making of genius. Love, love, love, that is the soul of genius.” – Brother Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Fraternally,
WM Maliek Olden