Millenial Mason Syndrome
Lessons from a Street Cat and a Freemason's Lodge. Unraveling Jordan Peterson's 12th Rule and Its Reflections within Freemasonry
After firing directly across the bow of Past Masters, I now must take aim at the other part of me. Being 35 makes me a Millenial Mason. But, Gen-Z are also in the firing line as with Gen-X; or practically any Mason who today, is on their smartphone in open lodge.
As we navigate the tumultuous sea of life, often, it's the smallest encounters that hold the most profound wisdom. Consider, for instance, petting a street cat. An act seemingly simple, yet it carries a depth of meaning and lessons about life. This wisdom forms the essence of the 12th rule in Jordan Peterson's "12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos."
On the surface, the directive appears straightforward
"Pet a cat when you encounter one on the street."
But beyond the words lies a metaphor, a guide to dealing with life's vicissitudes. Delve into it, and you'll find the teachings aren't just about cats, but life itself.
Peterson's rule tells us to be present in the moment.
In a world that never stops, finding moments of pause is an elusive art.
The mind races, oscillating between the past and the future, often overlooking the present. Here, petting the cat serves as a metaphor for immersing oneself fully in the current moment, setting aside worries and apprehensions.
But there's more.
The rule also beckons us to appreciate the small things in life, finding joy and comfort in seemingly mundane occurrences. A purring cat, a blooming flower, a stranger's smile - each is a nugget of happiness, a beacon in difficult times.
They are the flickers of light that dispel the gloom, the unexpected joys that add meaning to life.
How does this tie in with our Masonic principles?
Consider the experience in a Lodge.
When the Lodge is properly tyled, it becomes a haven away from the world's chaos, a different dimension that facilitates mindfulness and presence.
Here, in the hushed solemnity, distractions melt away, leaving no space for smartphones or worldly concerns.
And there is the principle of building our temple, one stone at a time.
Each stone, each moment, is a crucial part of the grand design.
The appreciation of these small, seemingly insignificant stones reflects Peterson's lesson of finding joy in the little things.
Additionally, Freemasonry, like life, is a journey, a progressive path where small steps lead us towards improvement and enlightenment.
This mirrors Peterson's emphasis on continuous growth and coping with suffering.
Neglecting these principles and lessons can be akin to navigating a ship without a compass.
By not appreciating the present or finding joy in life's small things, we risk becoming consumed by worries, regrets, and anxieties. Stress mounts, unhappiness seeps in, and coping with life's inevitable suffering becomes a daunting challenge.
The beauty of life fades, replaced with a sense of disillusionment and loss of purpose.
Why, then, should we embrace these lessons?
Because they offer an antidote to chaos.
They guide us through life's storms, helping us find balance and joy amidst adversity.
They encourage resilience, emphasizing the importance of small, consistent steps toward self-improvement.
How can we integrate these teachings into our lives?
Mindfulness in Daily Life:
Strive to be present in every moment. This could involve taking a few minutes each day for mindfulness meditation, or just simply paying closer attention to your surroundings, thoughts, and feelings throughout the day.Mindfulness in the Lodge:
When attending Lodge, make it a point to be fully present. Leave your smartphone behind, focus on the rituals and teachings, and engage fully with your fellow brethren.Appreciate the Small Things:
Start a daily gratitude journal where you write down small, joyful things you encountered or experienced during the day. This could range from a nice conversation with a colleague, a delicious meal, a beautiful sunset, or the successful completion of a task.Embrace Serendipity:
Be open to unexpected joys and experiences. This might mean taking a new route to work, trying a new hobby, or simply taking time to pet a cat when you come across one.Building the Temple:
Acknowledge that every task, no matter how small or mundane, contributes to your personal and professional growth. Like the stone in a Masonic temple, each task is an opportunity to learn and improve.Progressive Steps:
Set achievable, incremental goals for personal and professional improvement. Reflect on these goals during Lodge meetings, and celebrate when you achieve them.Cope with Suffering:
Acknowledge that suffering and challenges are part of life. Find healthy ways to cope, such as talking to a friend, engaging in a relaxing activity, or seeking professional help.Masonic Lessons:
Use the teachings of Freemasonry to cope with life's challenges. The principles of resilience, fortitude, and continuous self-improvement that are central to Freemasonry can offer guidance and support in difficult times.Cultivate a Positive Outlook:
Make an effort to look for the positive aspects in every situation, no matter how difficult it might be. This shift in perspective can help you navigate through life's challenges with more resilience and optimism.Practice Compassion:
Extend the kindness you show to a cat to all living beings. Practice empathy and understanding in all your interactions, both within and outside the Lodge.Continuous Learning:
Just as we learn from unexpected encounters with a cat, be open to learning from every experience and every person you meet. Every situation offers a chance to learn and grow.Live the Masonic Principles:
Lastly, strive to live by the principles of Freemasonry in your daily life. Whether it's being present in the moment, valuing the small things, embracing serendipity, or coping with suffering, these principles can guide you towards a more fulfilling life.
Remember, every small step matters.
Every stone is essential in the grand design.
Every moment has the potential to offer comfort, joy, and wisdom. Every encounter with a street cat can be a step toward understanding the mysteries of life.
In conclusion, life, like Freemasonry, is a journey of continuous growth and learning. Amidst the trials and tribulations, it's the little things, the present moments, that hold the essence of joy and resilience.
So, next time you encounter a cat on the street, remember the lessons it holds. Let it guide you in appreciating the beauty of the present, the joy in the small things, and the strength in resilience.