For individuals or nations, the light of Freemasonry has brought hope
and guidance into the darkest of times.

Photo: Valley of the Craftsmen, Supreme Council, 33°, S.J., USA, 2001

We used to call this lantern "the light." For some, it is only an emblem now, a relic. It has a place, as a decoration, on their shelf among other souvenirs to remind them of things long past. It is almost forgotten and, to a younger generation, unknown. But for many of us it remains, and its presence still enriches our lives. It has a sturdy candle to feed the flame and a shield to protect the flame from rain and wind. Careful openings permit fresh air to feed the flame and allow fumes to escape so that the light may continue to shine.

The lantern could be lighted, but it is seldom used nowadays, for other more efficient and convenient lights have taken its place. Some say it is not really needed anymore. It never was a very brilliant light, and its rays did not reach out very far. But it has been carried-and it could be again-to places where there is no light and where there is great need of light. For many, it has guided the way to wholesome pleasures and pastimes which wiped away cares and troubles. This light was never able, nor was it ever intended, to lead a massive demonstration or the noisy crowd. Rather, it has shown the way for the discerning few and could do so again, one step at a time.

Why do we keep this light, alleged to be a relic, and reminisce about its gentle aid? It is because, as we have read, "the greatest forces in the universe are never spectacular. Summer showers are more effective than hurricanes, but they get no publicity. The world would soon die but for the fidelity, loyalty, and consecration of those whose names are unhonored and unsung. It is easy to exaggerate the importance of the important and to underestimate the importance of the unimportant."1

Thus, although it may seem strange, we today cherish this lantern we called "the light." We will be guided by it and will work to bring others to its enriching glow once more.

1Kleinknecht, C. F. and sons, Kenneth S., C. Frederick, and Robert M. The Kleinknecht Gems of Thought Encyclopedia (Vol. 6, p. 194) Roberts Publishing Co., Washington, D.C. 1960.

Edgar C. "Ed" Wilson was raised a Master Mason in November 1962 in Masters Lodge No. 244, Knoxville, Tenn., and became a Scottish Rite Mason, Valley of Knoxville, in 1963. He was coroneted a 33° in 1971. Ill\ Wilson has the distinction of being the only Mason to sit in the Master's chair of two Bodies in the Valley of Knoxville, where he currently serves as General Chairman for Reunions. An active Mason, he has also served in leadership capacities in his Lodge, the York Rite, York Rite Sovereign College, Red Cross of Constantine, Royal Order of Scotland, Knight Masons, and National Sojourners Inc. The above article was adapted from a speech Ill\ Wilson gave to a Scottish Rite Toastmaster's Club in 1967, and it remains as appropriate to Freemasonry today as it was then.