THE TEACHINGS OF MASONRY ARE VEILED IN ALLEGORY
Recently I saw a Studebaker
at an antique auto show. A real gussied up 1948 Studebaker bullet nose sedan.
The model that was the peak of Studebaker styling – shortly before it ceased all
vehicle production. It looked mint. The body panels were fair and smooth. The
paint was perfect and well shined. The tires new. The windows clear and
unblemished.
I asked the owner
how it ran – He said, "Seldom!" He explained that replacement parts were hard to
find and buy, it did not meet current emission standards, and, as a showpiece,
he was unwilling to subject it to use and exposure that might result in damage.
Further he explained, he was not willing to substitute parts, like an engine,
transmission, or rear end, from other manufacturers that would enable him to use
the car, or at least keep it running. These parts, he said, even though unseen,
would change the car from what it was to something else even though it would be
more usable and give it a longer life.
As I listened to the
owners remarks, I suddenly thought, "This guy is talking about Grand Lodge
Masonry." The setting was appropriate – a collection of antiques assembled so
that the curious could appreciate the craftsmanship of a bygone era, at least
the outside part they could see. The situation similar – A prestigious name but
the supply of parts inadequate to replace those lost to the ravages of age, and
unable to operate without restriction in its current environment.
The attitude of the
owner was true antiquarian – Limit exposure that might result in damage, and NO
SUBSTITUTION OF PARTS – even though they would strengthen the structure and add
to it’s life.
The similarities
between the Studebaker and Grand Lodge Masonry were startling!
It was apparent the
owner and I were of different philosophies: The owner desired to maintain a
museum piece which chronicled the perfection of a certain vehicle and
manufacturer at a certain time; while I, on the other hand, would retain the
outward appearance and the basic structural elements used as a foundation for
the vehicle, and substitute new parts and materials necessary to extend its
usable life.
These differences
are reflected in Masonic thought today.
Is Grand Lodge Masonry to become
the Studebaker of Fraternities?
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