
                         WHY I BECAME A MASON


I BECAME A MASON out of curiosity.  Throughout my growing up
years, I had been told by various people that lodges were on the
list of things to be avoided. But I decided early in my life that I
was going to make my own decisions.

 I knew several people who were Masons (including my own uncle),
and these men were all solid citizens.  They believed the same
principles I had been taught while growing up.  I promised myself
if I ever joined a lodge and found its tenets to be in conflict
with my morals and principles, I would graciously bow out.
Happily, that time has never come.

   I belonged to many organizations before becoming a Mason and
found they helped in the community and brought me in touch with
others, but they didn't encourage true brotherly spirit. When I
became a Mason, I found it required more time and work than any of
the other organizations.  But, I also discovered the more I put
in, the more I received in return.  Nothing worthwhile comes
without sacrifice.

   Freemasonry has also given me a world full of Brothers, true
Brothers in every sense of the word.  Blood may be thicker than
water, but Masonry is thicker than both.

  If more men joined the Craft, not only would they find them-
selves growing both mentally and spiritually, but they would also
be integral members of a great and diverse Fraternity.  They would
be able to help in their communities by working with local programs
and charities.

   A Brother doesn't need to be rich monetarily.  Everyone has
inborn riches to share with those around him.  Any man who be-
comes a Brother and puts forth his best efforts will not be
disappointed.  By learning the lessons of life taught so
wonderfully in our ritual, he can become the type of person all
good men admire.

   Masonry has become a large part of my life.  I have gone through
both the Scottish and York Rites, I am a Noble in the Shrine, and I
am  currently  the Master of Fraternity Lodge No. 101, Worthington,
Minnesota. Most of all, I lead my life differently because of
Masonry.

  My only regret is that I did not become a Mason sooner.  I am
recommending to my sons and anyone else who expresses interest in
joining, to do it right away!  It has been and continues to be the
most enjoyable and enlightening experience of my life.

 Steven M. Hansen, 32 Rochester, Minnesota, S. R. Bodies

