Due Form
One of the principles we consider paramount is "due form".
In Freemasonry, one of the principles we consider paramount is "due form". This phrase, rich with Masonic resonance, is more than mere words; it is a beacon guiding our actions, decisions, and interactions. It represents a holistic concept, one that carries deeper and broader implications beyond merely following a proper process.
By observing "due form," we are not merely going through the motions; we are engaging with a principle that holds centuries of accumulated wisdom. It encourages us not to reinvent the wheel but to learn from the wisdom of those who have come before us. Our interactions in the Lodge, at home, and in the workplace, under the guidance of "due form," imbue our actions with the kind of respect, integrity, care, and shared responsibility that is the bedrock of any harmonious community.
The values, norms, and ethics that "due form" encapsulates act as unwritten rules that serve as guiding principles in our daily conduct. These guidelines, derived from the heart of Freemasonry, provide the cornerstones of order, consistency, and structure that permeate our lives, fostering stability and integrity both in the Lodge and beyond.
Etymology of “Due Form”
The phrase "due form" traces its roots back to Old French and Latin. "Due," a term borrowed from the Old French "deu," conveys the sense of that which is owed or fitting. "Form," on the other hand, stems from the Latin "forma," which embodies the idea of shape or structure. Hence, "due form" implies an appropriate or owed structure, indicating the correct and traditional manner in which an act should be carried out.
But why should you be intrigued by the concept of "due form"? What's in it for you, the individual engaged in the dance of daily life, and why should you take up the challenge of integrating this Masonic philosophy into your personal and professional spheres?
The rewards of understanding "due form" are manifold and profoundly transformative. By grasping the nature of "due form," you acquire a tool for creating structure and order in your life, fostering a sense of predictability and stability. It instils a robust sense of discipline and responsibility and, under its auspices, you become equipped to act ethically and justly, championing values that serve not only your interests but the interests of your wider community.
"Let us raise a standard to which the wise and honest can repair; the rest is in the hands of God."
- Bro George Washington, Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4
President, United States of America 1789-1797
Regrettably, despite its multifaceted benefits, "due form" is often neglected or misunderstood in the broader world.
This is predominantly due to a lack of awareness.
Many individuals are unaware of the profound significance of "due form" and fail to recognise its relevance to their daily lives.
A widespread misunderstanding of what "due form" encompasses
The misconception that "due form" is applicable only within the Masonic domain
A failure to perceive the potential benefits in their personal and professional lives
A belief that embracing "due form" necessitates drastic alterations to lifestyle or mindset
However, despair not. By delving deeper into the essence of "due form" and understanding its application, you can begin to weave this invaluable principle into the fabric of your existence.
1. Understand and Acknowledge the Concept
The first stepping stone towards embracing "due form" is to grasp its significance. This sentiment is mirrored by the words of MW Bro Benjamin Franklin PGM, who said:
"A place for everything, everything in its place."
This phrase encapsulates the essence of "due form": structure, order, and propriety.
To understand this, immerse yourself in the rich world of literature, engage in enlightening discussions, and, if possible, interact with Freemasons to gain firsthand insights. Reflect upon the rituals in your own life: be they family traditions, work routines, or even your morning coffee ritual. Each of these reflects elements of "due form."
Consider the story of John, a teacher who once grappled with disorganised classes and haphazard lesson plans. By understanding and integrating the concept of "due form," he began to structure his classes and plan his lessons with meticulous attention to detail. As a result, his classroom management improved, and his teaching became more effective, underlining the benefits of introducing "due form" into his professional life.
2. Integrate "Due Form" into Daily Life
The second step in embracing "due form" might seem daunting to some, as they perceive it to be a dramatic transformation in their lifestyle. However, it's not about completely revamping your way of life. Rather, it involves refining your daily activities and interactions with a heightened understanding and appreciation for time-tested wisdom and processes.
One potential pitfall in this journey is to 'reinvent the wheel' – to dismiss established processes without first understanding why they were designed the way they were. This can often lead to a misguided quest for change, rather than progression. It's crucial to remember that processes, like the circular design of a wheel, are often the way they are due to centuries of refinement and improvements. The key is to weave "due form" into your life in ways that uphold these valuable, time-tested wisdom and avoid unnecessary or uninformed changes.
3. Cultivate Consistency and Commitment
With a clear understanding of "due form" and its practical integration into your everyday routine, the transformative power of this concept starts to unfold. Yet, the journey isn't over. The essence of "due form" truly comes alive through consistent practice and unwavering commitment to these time-honoured principles.
Embarking on this journey brings you into a life of structure, order, and integrity.
"The price of greatness is responsibility."
- Bro Winston Churchill, Studholme Lodge No. 1591,
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom 1940-45, 1951-55
By adopting "due form," you inherently embrace a responsibility, fostering an environment that nurtures growth, understanding, and mutual respect.
Ultimately, "due form" is not just a Masonic concept but a guiding light leading towards a balanced and principled life. By understanding its importance, weaving it into your everyday life, and maintaining consistency, you can tap into its profound potential.
Conclusion
To conclude, "due form" is a timeless principle, imbued with centuries of wisdom, which carries profound implications for both our professional and personal lives. It encourages structure, cultivates discipline, and advocates ethical conduct, providing a sturdy foundation upon which we base our actions and interactions. The journey towards adopting "due form" is a path of self-discovery, responsibility, and consistency. As we traverse this path, we begin to appreciate how order, fairness, and respect can deeply enrich our daily experiences. Therefore, let's honour this wisdom-filled philosophy, understand its relevance, and apply it mindfully in our lives, faithfully fulfilling our duties in their true form, or as the Freemasons call it, in "due form." It's a journey that promises a transformation towards a more harmonious and balanced life.
You wouldn’t mind helping me with something please?
If you could please share this with your Lodge Secretary and ask for him to send this to the other members of the Lodge it would help all Masons, make Daily Progress in the Acquisition & Application of Masonic Knowledge.
Best
Darren