November 23,  1987

CHRISTMAS TIME

R.W.  Bro.  W.N. Love, PGM

At this time of year, out thoughts and attentions are inevitably
turned to the preparations for the Christmas Holy Day.

It might be considered trite to repeat the feelings of so many
that the advent of affluence and material riches have tended to
divert the lofty purpose of observing this anniversary, into
little more than an annual Commercial Festival.  But,
regrettably, there is much truth here.

Fortunately, there are about us many men of good will and high
principle who would seek to remind us of the deeper meaning
behind Christmas.  Without dampening the fun of shopping and
gifting . . . . without diminishing the pleasures of friendly
gatherings and hearty feasts . . . . and without detracting from
the pleasant surprises that make young eyes sparkle and bring
forth bright laughter, they remind us not to lose sight of the
distinction between mere pleasure and real happiness.

It would appear that so many of us are so frantically seeking the
one, that we generally pass-by the other.  The best things in
life are still free!! As someone once said, "A man travels the
length and breadth of the globe searching for happiness, only to
discover it at last seated around the family table for Christmas
dinner."

As I travel about the jurisdiction I am constantly reminded of
the potential for good in the teachings of Freemasonry.  In a
rapidly-changing society some things, nevertheless, do not change
and the advent of Christmas gives all Brethren the opportunity to
remind one and all of the eternal values that tend to be lost in
the glittering, noisy festivities.  If these seeds are properly
planted among the young by our moderate counsel and example, the
great lessons of life will remain long after the tinsel and
superficial glitter has been packed away.  Then, (to paraphrase
our ritual) "within your peaceful walls may your children's
children celebrate with joy and gratitude the annual recurrence
of this auspicious solemnity."

Having said this, I nevertheless welcome the opportunity to wish
each and every one of you the very happiest of Christmases and a
merry New Year.  May the ensuing twelve months bring the best of
health and success to you and yours.

Perhaps, in conclusion, I can make some suggestions to help you
with your Masonic Christmas list.  The words are certainly not
original nor, I should think, entirely new, but they are well
worth repeating and bearing in mind.

 A Masonic Christmas list would include the following:.........

To an enemy - forgiveness
To an opponent - tolerance
To your superior - loyalty
To a customer - service
To a friend - your heart
To a father - deference
To a mother - a conduct that will maker her proud of you.
To a child - a good example
To yourself - self-respect
And to all men - Charity in its fullest meaning.

But remember always, . . . . a friend is the present you give to
yourself!



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