My dear Scottish Rite Brother,

Welcome back! Thank you for taking the time to write to me. I was saddened to receive your first brief letter informing me of your decision to terminate your membership in Scottish Rite. Unfortunately, your story is not unique, but we are working every day, confident in the hope that fewer men like you will feel compelled to submit a resignation to their Grand Commander.

You have been very successful in your professional and personal lives. As an attorney—still in active practice at ninety-plus years, you have served your profession with integrity and distinction and serve on the boards of your local bar associations. As a citizen, you have been honored in recognition of your civic-minded spirit and of your dedication to making your community a better place to live and work. As an alumnus, you serve on the board of your law school. As a husband and father, your family has been central in your life.

While I was still in elementary school, you became interested in Masonry and joined your Blue Lodge. Thereafter, you decided that perhaps Scottish Rite held the promise of additional Light. And so, while JFK yet occupied the White House, you continued your Masonic journey by becoming a member of the Scottish Rite.

A span of forty plus years passed, a lifetime for some, between the time you affixed your signature on your petition and the time you submitted your resignation. What happened? Well, we—not you—dropped the ball.

You waited all those years to be included, to be given a responsibility, a role to fulfill or something to do for our organization. But we never called. To be sure, we were glad to see you at the Reunion as a candidate because your presence added to our large class and thus made us feel secure. But we never called. Never wondered where you were or, more importantly, why you weren’t with us. And the years passed. With each passing year it became harder for you to take the initiative and return. And harder for us, because, to be sure, we forgot who you were.

As Sovereign Grand Commander, I apologize to you for our neglect. We were content to make you a member, not a brother.

Fortunately, upon further reflection and conversation with well-informed brethren, you let us know that you decided to stay and continue your Scottish Rite membership. Thank you for giving us another opportunity! Second chances are redemptive, and I know that your trust will not be misplaced. I look forward to hearing from you after your next visit to your valley. Tell them I sent you.

Fraternally,