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Post by sammy on Jun 21, 2010 2:28:56 GMT
thanks for listening
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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 Jun 21, 2010 14:54:48 GMT
Concentrating on what benefits the individual IS concentrating on what benefits the whole. The two are not mutually-exclusive. A hospital has $750,000 to spend. It can spend it all on saving one patient or it can purchase a machine that will save hundreds or thousands. Many a lodge has one particular person who bullies, ridicules, alienates new members to the point that they leave. Best to be loyal to the Brother or loyal to Freemasonic values? Oftentimes we need to make very difficult and painful decisions. An individual cannot afford what the hospital charges for the use of the aforementioned machine. The many freely decide to band together for the benefit of the one and provide for his treatment. This is the many working for the individual. An individual has the money to provide to purchase the machine in the first place, and donates to the hospital that sum to benefit many. The hospital can now use the extra $750,000 to suppliment treatment on the machine to those who cannot afford it. This is the individual working for the many. As said, individuality does not necessarily juxtapose the many. In the second scenario, the individual is obviously unsuited to the workings of a group of individuals. As an individual, he has his right to act that way. As a common group, the lodge has the right to correct the issue in the interest of the individuals who comprise that group. Note that the group still relies upon individuals to comprise it. In Freemasonry, we are to attempt to act with respect of other brothers. It is the lodge's responsibility to whisper good counsel. It is the responsibility of the member to attempt to rectify his actions. If he acts against a new member whom he has good reason to suspect is dishonest or is belligerent, he acts for the good of the many. When someone does not act with respect of other individuals, he can possibly lose his membership. He should at least forgo expectations of respect in return.
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Post by sammy on Jun 21, 2010 16:22:10 GMT
Well put Knos. We too often say how things should be, and leave little options on how they can be effectively used. I feel the personal touch is the only way to deal with situations. If you dont involve yourself personaly it will show you arent involved at all, but following some sequence you think has purpose and could care less if they cant make it work. Compared to doing nothing this option is better, but it doesnt have to continue. we all like to know people are doing something because they care, not because they have to.
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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 Jun 21, 2010 16:42:46 GMT
That's it, Sammy. Freemasonry is a volunteer organization. If you are obliged by others, it is not as rewarding as when you oblige yourself. Freedom of the individual serves both the individual and the larger whole
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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 Jun 21, 2010 16:43:29 GMT
That's it, Sammy. Freemasonry is a volunteer organization. If you are obliged by others, it is not as rewarding as when you freely oblige yourself. Freedom of the individual serves both the individual and the larger whole.
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