In My Heart ❤️
Journey through the Masonic Iceberg, Discovering the Hidden Depths of Our Principles and Traditions.
There's a shimmering nugget of wisdom that often goes unheeded - "Our heart is where our journey begins".
This phrase holds a wealth of meaning for us Freemasons.
If you're reading this, chances are you're somewhat familiar with Freemasonry, but have you ever delved into the profound essence of our Masonic principles, and why they matter?
For us Masons, our principles aren't merely words inked on paper. They serve as a compass, guiding us through life's unpredictable maze.
These lessons, buried within our Masonic ceremonies, are like an iceberg: the visible part, the words on the page, only scratches the surface of the knowledge it conceals.
In my recent mentoring session with two new apprentices, we discussed the critical concept of "Being First Prepared in our Heart".
Many masons might skim through this phrase without much thought, but, it stands as a cornerstone of our Masonic journey.
Our "heart" symbolizes our innermost being. In the realm of Freemasonry, it’s our heart that serves as the birthplace of our journey.
Being prepared in our heart is not a casual position, but a testimony to our internal readiness and desire to embrace Freemasonry's principles: brotherly love, relief, and truth.
Ignoring these principles is like attempting to navigate a dark forest without a torch.
Without these guiding lights, we are more likely to lose our way, stumbling in the darkness of ignorance and selfishness.
The pain of not applying these principles is often a life unfulfilled, a path taken for granted, and a heart hardened by the lack of understanding and empathy.
However, the Masonic journey isn't one of fear or retribution but of enlightenment and self-improvement. This is why it is essential that we not just learn these lessons but make them an integral part of our lives.
So, where can these principles apply? The answer is everywhere!
Be it at home with our families, at work, within our social circles, or in the lodge.
By actively applying these principles, we promote harmony, understanding, and mutual respect in every facet of our lives.
Not taking this journey seriously can have negative outcomes. Disregarding can lead to fractured relationships, a lack of personal growth, and an absence of purpose.
However, the solution is simple and profound: live and breathe our Masonic principles.
You may ask, "How can we actually apply these principles?" Here are some actionable steps for us all:
Be Vulnerable:
Let go of the fear of judgment. Open your heart to the experience, and remember, growth often springs from vulnerability. This also means letting down your guard and dropping your walls.Embrace Willingness:
Enter with a sincere desire to learn and grow. Your motivation is your fuel
.Practice Humility: A
lways be humble. Remember, we're all on the same journey, just at different points along the path.Have Faith and Trust:
Trust in the wisdom of our Masonic principles and have faith in your journey.Take Action:
Don’t be a passive observer. Practice what we preach in our day-to-day life.Listen and Learn:
Be open to knowledge. Listen to your peers, your mentors, and your heart.Plan, Execute, Reflect:
Make a conscious plan to incorporate Masonic teachings into your life, follow it, and reflect on the progress.
The truth is, Freemasonry is not merely about mastering rituals or reciting texts. It's a journey of inner growth and development, the pursuit of enlightenment, and the quest to be a better person every day.
By being first prepared in our hearts, we open ourselves to the profound teachings of Freemasonry and allow these principles to steer us towards a path of fulfilment and self-improvement.
So, let's embark on this journey together, with our hearts as our guide and our principles as our compass. Our Masonic journey awaits us, and it all begins in our hearts.