Donald E. Lavender, 33°
2913 49th St., Des Moines, Iowa 50310–2550

When speaking of Freemasonry, we frequently state "Masonry makes good men better." In truth, there is no certainty that a man will be improved through Masonry, but the possibility that he will be better is greater with the Craft than without it. Also, Masonry lays no claim to originality or superiority in this achievement. Its teaching and precepts, however, are gleaned from the noblest thinkers and greatest teachers of the ages. In addition, though it professes no particular creed, it teaches an unwavering belief in God and looks hopefully to the day when all humankind will live together in universal Brotherhood.

Masonic philosophy has been spelled out for us by Brothers like Albert Pike in Morals and Dogma (1871) and Joseph Fort Newton in The Builders (1916). Albert Pike wrote: "Let the Mason never forget that life and the world are what we make them by our social character.... We are members of a civil community. The life of that community depends upon its moral condition. Public spirit, intelligence, temperance, and kindness will make it a happy community and give it prosperity and continuance. Selfishness, dishonesty, intemperance, and corruption will make it miserable and bring about dissolution and ruin."

Similarly, Joseph Fort Newton wrote: "At bottom, a man is what his thinking is, thoughts being the artists who give color to our days. Optimists and pessimists live in the same world, walk under the same sky, and observe the same facts. Skeptics and believers look up at the same great stars. Clearly, the difference between them is a difference not of fact, but of faith, of insight, of outlook and point of view, a difference of inner attitude and habit of thought with regard to the worth and use of life."

This is the kind of philosophy that brings to Masons a greater purpose in life and a clearer understanding, thus encouraging us to be better, to make the most of ourselves and our lives. Whatever our place in life, Freemasonry provides something for each of us, and for that we are all truly grateful.

Donald E. Lavender is a former Secretary Registar (1974–1979) of the Des Moines, Iowa, Scottish Rite Bodies. He is retired from the City of Des Moines Engineering Department and enjoys the hobbies of instrumental music and photography.