Both farmers and Freemasons plant good seeds. Because of their tender care, both will reap a harvest, be it food in agriculture or knowledge for the betterment of our fellowmen in Freemasonry.

The farmer knows from his personal knowledge and the sweat of his brow that his piece of terra firma will bear good grain, fruit, or produce. His harvest is a witness to his care for the land. The farmer is well aware that he must never fault in his obligation today, for tomorrow his land must be as bountiful for the generation following him.

The Freemasons of today can learn a lesson from the farmer. We also, with tender care, must plant good seeds. If we do, the result will be a harvest of Masonic Brethren who will pass on to the next generation the same principles which have fed our hearts, minds, and spirits since we entered the Lodge. These new, good members become better men because we care enough to plant and nurture the seeds of Freemasonry in them.

Sadly, modern times have placed in the minds of men too many things of no value. Yet Masonry offers ideals beyond price. We who claim to be loyal Masons must demonstrate that we, too, are caretakers of high principle just as farmers are stewards of the land they tend. We must continue to cultivate the knowledge given to us by our Masonic mentors and, also, pass this wisdom on to others so that Freemasonry can prosper for generations to come. This is our duty, our mission, our honor.

Leo J. Ghirardi was raised in Doric Lodge No. 205, Morgan City, Louisiana, and became a 32° member of the Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Scottish Rite Bodies in 1960. He has conducted some 76 Masonic memorial services for his Lodge. A veteran of World War II, he first saw frontline duty at the Battle of the Bulge. He is retired from the paint business and has applied for patents on several inventions.