Angelo G. Coppola, Sr., 32°
1940 Waterside Drive, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72116

Life gives back to you whatever you give to it.

I was only 16 when my dad left us to be with the Lord, but in the 16 years he was with us, he taught his three boys more than most people ever learn in a lifetime. He was the type of father who would use stories to make us understand the many aspects of our lives. We planted trees, and he would tell us the mystery behind their growth. He would save a plant or animal and make us understand the importance of life. So it was not surprising when we were visiting in Washington, D.C., one summer and stopped by a fountain only to see our reflection in the water that he had a message for us.

He told the story of a boy who was hiking in the mountains. The boy fell, hurt himself, and began screaming angrily. Every time he yelled, an echo filled with anger came back. Finally, his dad came and shouted, "You are a champion!" The echo answered: "You are a champion!" Then the father explained: "People call this an echo, but really this is life. It gives you back everything you say or do."

Our life is simply a reflection of our actions. If you want more love in the world, create more love in your heart. If you want more competence in your organization, improve your competence. This relationship applies to all aspects of live. Life will only give back to you whatever you give to it.

Scottish Rite is the same way. For those who take an active role in the Scottish Rite, there are many rewards. For others, it is only the privilege of carrying a membership card. Scottish Rite, like other Masonic Bodies, continues to hold to the basic tenets that have made it so strong throughout its existence, but it is up to us to live them.