“The Rose Above the Outer Door”
The point within a circle, square and compass, the all-seeing eye, the Letter G, the trowel, the beehive, the anchor, the acacia, the level, the plumb, the tessellated border, etc….
So many different symbols have meanings that can change or stay the same throughout our Masonic journey from one Brother to another. One symbol, a rose above the door of the Lodge Proper, was a reminder to me of what I loved about the craft.
The floral emblem adorning the doorway carries profound symbolism, embodying principles integral to Masonic teachings. Positioned above the threshold, it serves as a visual reminder of the Masonic journey towards enlightenment and moral virtue. Within this symbolism, the flower represents beauty, evoking the pursuit of truth and wisdom. Its delicate petals symbolize the fragility of life and the ephemeral nature of existence, urging us to cherish each moment and strive for inner illumination.
Moreover, the flower’s thorns speak to the potential for pain and adversity encountered on the path to enlightenment, emphasizing the need for resilience and fortitude. The presence of the floral emblem above the entrance signifies the threshold between the profane world and the sacred realm of Masonic knowledge, inviting us to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. Through contemplation of the floral symbolism, we are encouraged to reflect on the cyclical nature of life, the passage of time, and the eternal essence of the human spirit. Thus, the presence of the floral emblem above the doorway serves as a potent symbol of the Masonic ideals of beauty, enlightenment, and the pursuit of truth.
The next time you walk into Olive Branch Lodge #16 look above your head and tell me how you feel about “The Rose Above The Outer Door.”
My Brothers, I leave you with this…
“Find beauty in the smallest of things. It’s often the little moments that bring us the greatest joy.” – Brother Count Basie
Fraternally,
WM Maliek Olden