Joining vs Becoming - Freemasonry
Rediscovering Freemasonry as a Path to Personal Transformation
Like signing up for a gym membership with dreams of a healthier self, Initiation into Freemasonry holds the promise of personal transformation.
Yet, much like an unused gym membership, joining an organization alone cannot spark the change.
This subtle yet profound distinction between "Joining Freemasonry” and "Becoming a Freemason” forms the very basis of our Masonic journey.
Freemasonry, with its rich history and allegorical rituals, is a fertile field for those seeking personal growth and moral development.
But it's only when we commit to truly "becoming" Freemasons, internalizing the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth, that the Craft's true transformative power can be harnessed.
The Uncharted Depths of Masonic Wisdom
Joining Freemasonry might open the fraternity's doors, but to tap into its profound wisdom, one must seek to Become a Freemason.
This requires immersing ourselves in Masonic lessons, embodying its principles, and living out its values, both within the lodge and in everyday life.
The rituals, rich with symbolism and moral lessons, are not mere ceremonies but pathways to becoming. The transition from an Entered Apprentice to a Fellowcraft, and finally to a Master Mason, symbolizes a journey towards deeper understanding and commitment to our shared Masonic principles.
A mere transactional association with the craft doesn’t result in receiving anything of value or its privileges.
But, the true rewards of Freemasonry - the personal growth, the sense of purpose, and the fulfilment of contributing to a greater good - are reserved for those who embrace the Masonic tradition in its entirety.
The Price of Ignoring the Journey
Like a gym membership gathering dust, focusing solely on "joining" Freemasonry, without embracing the transformation to “Become a Freemason”, can lead to unintended consequences.
The beauty of Masonic rituals, bursting with moral lessons and philosophical insights, can easily be reduced to mere words on a page.
The opportunity for personal growth, a cornerstone of the Masonic journey, is lost in the frequency of lodge meetings. And without personal investment (time & effort), the Masonic traditions risk being diluted, jeopardizing the very legacy we, as Freemasons, promise to uphold.
Most importantly, Freemasonry, viewed as just another social club or networking organization, can lead to damage to the fraternity's image, veiling its true purpose and importance.
Becoming: The Path Forward
To tread the path of transformation requires intentional steps towards Becoming a Freemason:
Understanding Freemasonry:
Delve into the history, principles, and goals of Freemasonry. Recognize it is really an education program committed to moral and philosophical development.Reflection on Personal Values:
Align your personal values with the principles of Freemasonry. See if you're ready for the transformative journey it offers.Attending Open Events and Speaking to Freemasons:
Gain first-hand insights from other Masons. Their dedication and values will provide a clearer picture of what becoming a Freemason entails.Commit to Personal Growth:
Recognize that Becoming a Freemason involves a commitment to personal growth that transcends lodge meetings.Apply to a Lodge with the right mindset: When ready, apply with the intention to become a Freemason, embodying the principles of the Craft in your life.
For Masons who initially focused on joining, it's time to shift gears and turn the focus towards Becoming Freemasons.
Engage in deeper studies, reflect on the rituals, participate in Masonic education, and strive for daily advancement. Be curious, ask questions, and seek to learn. Peel the onion or dive into the iceberg of every word or phrase contained within our ceremonies, here is how:
Pick a word or phrase from the ceremony and for each word in the phrase
What is the etymology of the word,
What is the meaning of that word
Is this a metaphor, and what lesson or principle is it trying to teach
Where else in the ritual can I find similar or related words or phrases
Why is that lesson important
Where can I apply this lesson: (Home, Work, Social, Lodge, Health, Wealth, Happiness)
What are the negative consequences of not applying that lesson or principles
What positive outcomes could occur if I apply applied it
What steps can I take to apply this lesson
Take Action. Apply It. If it works, great, if it doesn’t, learn from it, Take Action.
But, most importantly, let the Masonic principles guide your actions, both in the lodge and outside.
Conclusion
In the end, the distinction between joining and becoming is not just about words. It encapsulates the essence of our Masonic journey.
As Freemasons, it's upon us to not just wear the badge of Freemasonry but to live as Masonic Life.
Remember, joining Freemasonry may open the door, but Becoming a Freemason unveils a path - a path of personal growth, moral development, and service to humanity.
Embrace this path, and you'll find that becoming a Freemason is truly a transformative journey, enriching not just your life, but those around you.
Just as the true value of a gym membership lies in the journey towards becoming healthier, the true value of Freemasonry lies in the journey towards becoming a better version of oneself.
Choose wisely, for therein lies the true power of Freemasonry.