Lloyd E. Meyer, 32°
14610 Garrett Avenue, Apt 306, Apple Valley, Minnesota 55124–7518

As Mother's Day approaches, my mind drifts back to the lessons our mothers taught us long ago. Among the first lessons were to say "please" and "thank you." At age five during my first day of school, I accidentally stepped on the teacher's foot. She chuckled as I looked up and said, "Thank you." It took me a long time to realize why she was amused.

Mothers share their hopes and visions with their little boys and girls, dreams of becoming president or a princess. When we became teenagers racing for the school bus, our moms stood in the doorway, a prayer in their hearts, "Lead them not into temptation and deliver them from evil." They cautioned that we would be confronted with good and bad days and meet good and bad people.

They explained that good character and respect are not gifts; they must be earned. Other lessons included the following.

	It matters not what a man's wealth may be. More valuable is the respect of his fellowman.
	Be not discouraged if you fail until you start blaming someone else for your own mistakes.
	Be just, fair, and honest with others.
	If you receive much, it follows that much is required of you.
	Resolve never to abuse your body that it may serve you for a long and useful life.
	Have the ability to see the good things in life. The bad can wait.
	If you plan to do something good, do it now, as your tomorrow may never come.
	Try a friendly smile to a stranger. It often brings rich rewards.
	Seriously consider the words of wisdom of your elders, schooled by hard labor and experience.
	As to unproved rumors and gossip, take Shakespeare's advice to Macbeth: "Lend thine ear, but hold thy tongue."
	Speak not unkindly of those who have been called to eternity. Let God be their judge.

Mothers impressed on us that there will be a time when we must give an account of life's labor, our successes and failures, deeds and misdeeds, that weigh in our balances. Be mindful that our years and days are numbered. In this universe we are likened unto a blade of grass that withers and fades at the close of a summer's day. I believe the lessons our mothers taught us earned them a seat in the Kingdom beyond the skies. God bless each one.

Lloyd E. Meyer became a Master Mason in Minnehaha Lodge No. 165 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1955 and a Master of the Royal Secret in the Valley of Minneapolis in 1959. Brother Lloyd celebrated his 100th birthday on October 10th last year.