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Post by 0tt0 on Mar 18, 2010 18:10:49 GMT
Understanding the concept of fraternities, I have yet to understand what distinguishes Freemasonry from others, with the exception of the mystery/lack of public knowledge as to the ceremonies involved. My interest in Freemasonry stems solely from the History channel and random sources on the internet.
Aside from the secrecy and ceremony, what is Freemasonry about? I'm under (a LARGE) assumption that the Order is one of gaining knowledge. I've read it's towards "understanding yourself."
As you may understand, I find "understanding yourself" quite a vague term. Currently in the very early stages of Contemplating Freemasonry, my hopes/desires may very well coincide with the knowledge found in Freemasonry. That being said, with such a vague starting point, I cannot discern whether there is much of the knowledge that applies to myself.
...And now for the background information, and a couple questions:
27 y/o male. 6 year veteran in the United States Air Force. Seen as a very intellectual-type, introverted, speak 2 languages and started programming computers at 13, etc. etc. I'm not here to stroke my own ego, I'm just trying to portray myself.
Is The Order an organization that is very much geared towards intelligence, both having and gaining? And if so, of what sorts? I understand it has religious roots, and those primary beliefs are aligned with my own, but aside from religion and general spirituality/soul discovery, is there much knowledge to be gained of the TANGIBLE world? (Or better yet, I suppose, CURRENTLY tangible world.)
Also, I have read certain clothing situations come about, so 2 questions:
Are tattoos and or holes in ears (from previous piercings) disallowed/frowned upon? 2 tattoos and both ears obviously pierced.
And if you made it through this long-winded post, kudos to you, now reward yourself for making it through the above. haha. And thanks.
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Post by sid on Mar 18, 2010 19:45:31 GMT
Greetings Otto, Understanding the concept of fraternities, I have yet to understand what distinguishes Freemasonry from others, with the exception of the mystery/lack of public knowledge as to the ceremonies involved. My interest in Freemasonry stems solely from the History channel and random sources on the internet. Aside from the secrecy and ceremony, what is Freemasonry about? I'm under (a LARGE) assumption that the Order is one of gaining knowledge. I've read it's towards "understanding yourself." As you may understand, I find "understanding yourself" quite a vague term. Currently in the very early stages of Contemplating Freemasonry, my hopes/desires may very well coincide with the knowledge found in Freemasonry. That being said, with such a vague starting point, I cannot discern whether there is much of the knowledge that applies to myself. ...And now for the background information, and a couple questions: 27 y/o male. 6 year veteran in the United States Air Force. Seen as a very intellectual-type, introverted, speak 2 languages and started programming computers at 13, etc. etc. I'm not here to stroke my own ego, I'm just trying to portray myself. Is The Order an organization that is very much geared towards intelligence, both having and gaining? And if so, of what sorts? I understand it has religious roots, and those primary beliefs are aligned with my own, but aside from religion and general spirituality/soul discovery, is there much knowledge to be gained of the TANGIBLE world? (Or better yet, I suppose, CURRENTLY tangible world.) Also, I have read certain clothing situations come about, so 2 questions: Are tattoos and or holes in ears (from previous piercings) disallowed/frowned upon? 2 tattoos and both ears obviously pierced. And if you made it through this long-winded post, kudos to you, now reward yourself for making it through the above. haha. And thanks. Follow your dreams. If you 'feel' drawn to Masonry then go for it. If your intelect would like an answer then perhaps that 'noise' will stop you listening to what is within. Also a part of the process. Be Well,
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Post by Leo on Mar 18, 2010 20:19:29 GMT
Welcome to the forum. I know many Brothers with tattoos and some who wear earrings, my wife, for example
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Post by 0tt0 on Mar 18, 2010 20:31:21 GMT
Thanks, I would say I "feel drawn" yes, but in a curious way, definitely. And again, apologies if my description was seen as boastful or hostile.
And cool on the tattoos/piercings. Both have fairly negative connotations in certain cultures/religions. My own included, but we all have what we call a "past." haha
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Post by magusmasonica on Mar 18, 2010 22:21:41 GMT
OttO, Sounds like you have done a lot of thinking. Without being vague the answer to a lot of your questions would be variable. You may find a lodge where the difference between Freemasonry and other fraternities is huge. You may find another where almost none at all. You may find a lodge that is liberal and accepting where tattoos and guaged ears are common. You may find one that is very conservative where they will not approve.
Freemasonry is not a "unified" organization so it's anyones guess what you'll find. Just be sure of what you want and go with your gut. You'll find what it is you seek.
Love and Light,
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Post by sid on Mar 18, 2010 22:33:30 GMT
OttO, Sounds like you have done a lot of thinking. Without being vague the answer to a lot of your questions would be variable. You may find a lodge where the difference between Freemasonry and other fraternities is huge. You may find another where almost none at all. You may find a lodge that is liberal and accepting where tattoos and guaged ears are common. You may find one that is very conservative where they will not approve. Freemasonry is not a "unified" organization so it's anyones guess what you'll find. Just be sure of what you want and go with your gut. You'll find what it is you seek. Love and Light, I disagree, I think you will find that Traditional Masonry is strongly unified within their differences. It is a question of 'vibration' and quality, not quantity. I have experienced their vibration in many ways. The strongest was when the local Lodge was doing something of importance, and on I believe the day of St. John. Perhaps it was the vibration of the heart of Masons unified and working together. Be Well,
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Post by magusmasonica on Mar 18, 2010 22:41:01 GMT
OttO, Sounds like you have done a lot of thinking. Without being vague the answer to a lot of your questions would be variable. You may find a lodge where the difference between Freemasonry and other fraternities is huge. You may find another where almost none at all. You may find a lodge that is liberal and accepting where tattoos and guaged ears are common. You may find one that is very conservative where they will not approve. Freemasonry is not a "unified" organization so it's anyones guess what you'll find. Just be sure of what you want and go with your gut. You'll find what it is you seek. Love and Light, I disagree, I think you will find that Traditional Masonary is strongly unified within their differences. It is a question of 'vibration' and quality, not quantity. I have experienced their vibration in many ways. The strongest was when the local Lodge was doing something of importance, and on I believe the day of St. John. Perhaps it was the vibration of the heart of Masons unified and working together. Be Well, What I meant was that Freemasonry is not a single unified organization like let's say the Elks or Moose. Each Grand Lodge, Orient, Order is sovereign and independent. So, in visiting a local Grand Lodge of Washington lodge for an example would be very different than visiting a lodge of Le Droit Humaine. Even within the local neighborhood lodges you have differences. A "traditional observance" lodge is going to be a different world compared to a local casual lodge who's focus would be on fraternity and charity work. Love and Light,
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Post by 0tt0 on Mar 18, 2010 22:54:57 GMT
Thanks for trying to not be vague. That's a wide range of possibilities though, I assume you will admit. ;-)
Well, in all honesty, I HAVE done a lot of thinking, and your post brought up something else. One of the things that intrigues me is the fact that the order has been a part of our world for centuries. That would lead me to be partial towards a Lodge that is as orthodox as possible. In other words: If I want to be linked to something as grand and old, I'd like it to be 100% genuine. I hope that makes sense. Obviously through the military, I've been a part of "traditions" and such, and there's nothing more disheartening than a broken one, in my opinion. (ex: USAF Basic Military Training gives the trainees more phone calls, no foul language, rubber weapons for training, and the last day they get to use cameras, cellphones, etc. Granted, some of those are technological advances, but I know *I* wasn't given a rubber m16, and I got 2 PAYphone calls. Roughly 90 seconds each. haha. Depressing, really.)
So, we're vaguely establishing that the thirst for knowledge COULD BE quenched within. I travel a LOT. I MOVE a lot. (I work in aircraft maintenance, contracts come and go, so we chase the work sometimes to different cities/states/countries makes no difference.) How would that play out with regard to Freemasonry in general? I may be in one state this year, and another next year...Or I may stay here for 3+ years, who knows? Can you "transfer" from one lodge to the next, or do you start all over?
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Post by sid on Mar 18, 2010 23:10:24 GMT
I disagree, I think you will find that Traditional Masonary is strongly unified within their differences. It is a question of 'vibration' and quality, not quantity. I have experienced their vibration in many ways. The strongest was when the local Lodge was doing something of importance, and on I believe the day of St. John. Perhaps it was the vibration of the heart of Masons unified and working together. Be Well, What I meant was that Freemasonry is not a single unified organization like let's say the Elks or Moose. Each Grand Lodge, Orient, Order is sovereign and independent. So, in visiting a local Grand Lodge of Washington lodge for an example would be very different than visiting a lodge of Le Droit Humaine. Even within the local neighborhood lodges you have differences. A "traditional observance" lodge is going to be a different world compared to a local casual lodge who's focus would be on fraternity and charity work. Love and Light, Ok, I understand. Like a diamond with many facets and reflecting different vibrations of colour and light. Be well,
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Post by magusmasonica on Mar 18, 2010 23:41:19 GMT
Thanks for trying to not be vague. That's a wide range of possibilities though, I assume you will admit. ;-) Well, in all honesty, I HAVE done a lot of thinking, and your post brought up something else. One of the things that intrigues me is the fact that the order has been a part of our world for centuries. That would lead me to be partial towards a Lodge that is as orthodox as possible. In other words: If I want to be linked to something as grand and old, I'd like it to be 100% genuine. I hope that makes sense. Obviously through the military, I've been a part of "traditions" and such, and there's nothing more disheartening than a broken one, in my opinion. (ex: USAF Basic Military Training gives the trainees more phone calls, no foul language, rubber weapons for training, and the last day they get to use cameras, cellphones, etc. Granted, some of those are technological advances, but I know *I* wasn't given a rubber m16, and I got 2 PAYphone calls. Roughly 90 seconds each. haha. Depressing, really.) So, we're vaguely establishing that the thirst for knowledge COULD BE quenched within. I travel a LOT. I MOVE a lot. (I work in aircraft maintenance, contracts come and go, so we chase the work sometimes to different cities/states/countries makes no difference.) How would that play out with regard to Freemasonry in general? I may be in one state this year, and another next year...Or I may stay here for 3+ years, who knows? Can you "transfer" from one lodge to the next, or do you start all over? OK here is the thing. I don't mean to sound like a killjoy but if you are looking for the exact same experience as one would find in colonial America you are going to be vastly disappointed. For an example all rituals and rights have changed over time and in many cases many times. Even the "traditional observance" movement that does their best to be hardcore traditional is just a take from here and there with approximations of what may have been in the "good old days." We live in the 21st century and Freemasonry by it's nature being a progressive science it is only natural that things would evolve and change over time. IN any case you should probably seek out a "traditional observance" lodge as that would be your best bet. Look up the Masonic Restoration Foundation and see if they have a lodge near you. Love and Light,
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Post by 0tt0 on Mar 18, 2010 23:50:29 GMT
Well, let's not forget that ceremony is only 1 part of the Order (I would assume.) Just like my military analogy. I will continue: The US Military is known more for its values than its traditions. I am a FAN of traditions, but an even greater fan of knowledge, discipline, and morals.
Hope that made sense. And thanks for the explanation, I'll definitely be digging around for more on the different values of each Lodge
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Post by 0tt0 on Mar 19, 2010 0:07:44 GMT
I just realized my post completely dodged what I was trying to say.
I'm a fan of traditions being genuine. Absolutely. But I think there's a lot more to the Order, but again, this is an assumption.
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Post by magusmasonica on Mar 19, 2010 0:15:12 GMT
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Augur
Member
Travelling salesman. Roamin' profit.
Posts: 184
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Post by Augur on Mar 19, 2010 0:17:42 GMT
So, we're vaguely establishing that the thirst for knowledge COULD BE quenched within. I travel a LOT. I MOVE a lot. (I work in aircraft maintenance, contracts come and go, so we chase the work sometimes to different cities/states/countries makes no difference.) How would that play out with regard to Freemasonry in general? I may be in one state this year, and another next year...Or I may stay here for 3+ years, who knows? Can you "transfer" from one lodge to the next, or do you start all over? All (A)F&AM Lodges in the 51 States recognize each other, as far as I know, so moving and visiting another Lodge or applying to join them as an associate isn't difficult at all. In fact, there are Lodges all over the world you can do this with. It's one of the big bonuses of being 'mainstream'. As already stated, the quality of the experience you encounter may vary by Lodge to Lodge and State to State and country to country. The basics and standards are the same everywhere pretty much, but you may find a different kind of people involved depending on who you end up involved with. One of the Lodges in our building, for example, is entirely police and security personnel. A very different 'feel' than our Lodge which is younger and has a more esoteric bent. So go meet them first. Get to know them a bit. Ask questions. Even if you don't end up liking your Mother Lodge you can always apply as an associate somewhere else and keep both memberships, or demit from your original Lodge if you feel you're a better fit somewhere else. Like said earlier, much of the 'thirst for knowledge' can be quenched personally, of course. I find that Freemasonry, however, not just helps me personally and helps me help others, but also connects me with some very good, upstanding and very interesting people - not just in my community but around the world. I think you'll be quite surprised by the variety, it's endless!
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Post by 0tt0 on Mar 19, 2010 0:38:40 GMT
Hey, magus, thanks for the link, I've been looking around and maybe I'm just fatigued, but I don't see where to search Lodges, but I suppose I could contact them and ask. (btw, feel free to tell me I'm asking too many questions.)
But you all are right, I think I'm just going to have to meet them and go from there haha.
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Post by magusmasonica on Mar 19, 2010 0:41:06 GMT
0tt0, There is a list of lodge on the "about us" section of the site I believe.
No problem, ask questions. It's all good ;D
Love and Light,
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KNOs1s
Member
I am inclined agree or disagree based on the quality and quantity of proffered information.
Posts: 1,330
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Post by KNOs1s on Mar 19, 2010 5:52:51 GMT
Thanks, I would say I "feel drawn" yes, but in a curious way, definitely. And again, apologies if my description was seen as boastful or hostile. And cool on the tattoos/piercings. Both have fairly negative connotations in certain cultures/religions. My own included, but we all have what we call a "past." haha I had five ear piercings, long hair, and a tattoo when I joined. I know a GM of our state who has an ear piercing, and one Master of a Lodge who has many facial piercings. Many, many brothers joining our lodge have tattoos, and we even have a resident tattoo and body piercing professional Past Master in our lodge. So, no-piercings and tattoos are not a negative thing in Masonry. ;D I find Freemasonry to be highly intellectual, and find Freemasonry in America to provide a rich experience to those who seek. Masonry continues to move forward and is making remarkable progress. My Brothers in T.O. lodges are highly involved in the community, and though the ritual may differ in spots, we are all unified in brotherhood. Members of our lodge are considering a T.O. lodge. Unfortunately, one consideration is our building is historic, and there is a prohibition of open flame in the lodge room. An anecdote: The other day we raised a brother. He was very impressed with the ritual and told his mentor afterward, "You guys are serious about this." The mentor replied, "Yes, we are." Yes, we are. 'Dead' serious.
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Post by patrickg on Mar 19, 2010 12:57:01 GMT
Aside from the secrecy and ceremony, what is Freemasonry about? I'm under (a LARGE) assumption that the Order is one of gaining knowledge. I've read it's towards "understanding yourself." I joined a UGLE lodge about 18 months ago and I am less clear now than I was before my initiation. Sorry to say there doesn't seem to a great deal of fraternity, more like a clique within a clique. The only time I hear from anyone is when my dues need paying, and regular invitations to contribute to more and more charity appeals. Friends of mine urge me to join their Lodge, but I fail to see how I could do this without causing an upset of one sort or another. Patrick
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Post by billmcelligott on Mar 19, 2010 13:23:45 GMT
If you don't mind I would like to make my opinion and feelings known.
I listen to many who may be interested in joining Freemasonry or indeed as Patrick just said , has joined but now not so sure.
Easiest one first, Patrick, either you are in the wrong Lodge or you expect too much, you are the only one who knows the answer to that. If I can be of any assistance then you only have to ask.
But I hear much about "whats in it for me" or "what advantage do I get from joining" simple answer in my opinion is , don't join.
Freemasonry, or rather the spirit of Freemasonry is like what Mr. Miyagi says to the Karate Kid, it is within you. You have to have a hunger to be creative with your own being, to improve who at what you are. It is not something that you buy a ticket to and go on a Saturday Afternoon to be entertained.
Now I do not mean any disrespect to anyone, but first rule is honesty. Yes there are some people who are Freemasons who are just not worth the time of day. IMHO. Also to give the impression that just joining a Nasonic Lodge of whatever type or style with do the trick just nicely is simply a false promise. It is not a quick fix.
Freemasonry is a tool that will assist you in the development of yourself. How effective this tool is is not dependant on everyone else or your Lodge doing their part, that is your job.
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Post by billmcelligott on Mar 19, 2010 14:52:12 GMT
The English language is a fascination
I only have two ears.
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