OUR STRENGTH
Duty is not confined to a display of heroism in times of abnormal
circumstances. Duty is noble when discharged in the normal way of life. It is
noble and Godlike when it is performed willingly and in the silence of the
heart.
We speak of the enemies of Masonry. Toward our enemies, and none but the
foolish would deny their existence, we have certain duties which are the highest
expressions of Masonic teachings. It is the glory of Masonry, however, that
whenever an enemy appears, it is in the form of greed, of tyranny, or unbridled
ambition for power. The enemies of Masonry have always sought to arrogate unto
themselves a power for the ultimate purpose of selfish gain. The philosophy of
Masonry does not always strike a responsive note within the hearts and minds of
all men, yet whenever an honest and impartial evaluation is expressed, it is
never said that Masonry seeks to impose its philosophy upon others, or seeks
something of material gain for the Institution. It is to the everlasting credit
of our Institution that the avowed enemies of Masonry are at once the avowed
enemies of Right as it is universally applied.
It is possible to have enemies without being an enemy. The principles of
Masonry must be interpreted to the world in the only way that principles remain
unsullied- through patience and kindness. We often under-estimate the strength
of morality when we view the apparent strength of evil. We often question its
effectiveness because it is such a quiet force. Yet the Story of the Ages is the
miracle of moral strength. One so weak in the ways of wrong, one so little
versed in the art of revenge, one so free of hate, one so foolish as to love his
enemies, draws some Unseen Power a force that neither he nor his enemies can
understand. We must not blindfold our senses to the existence of enemies;
neither must we adopt their weapons.
How, then is a miracle accomplished? Every miracle is a moral victory. Be
content to know that. It is Truth.
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