Quotes abound on the internet with regards to Freemasonry making good men better. But how do we know what a good man is. These quotes were found on line. “A good man is one who at least tries to do the right thing, to get through life affecting people in a positive way whenever possible.” “…just try to treat people in ways that (you would) like to be treated… we should at least aspire to leave others in better shape than we find them.”
But how do these high ideals translate to what we see on a local level.
The involvement of Freemasonry with all kinds of charitable pursuits helps its members focus on making the lives of others less fortunate. Any mason at any lodge meeting in the world will be confronted with charity on a number of levels. He will be asked to give something towards charity if he is able. He may be asked to vote on the direction of funds to needy causes. A regular collection is taken at every meeting. The funds raised are directed to any number of charitable ends. This could be support by a partnership with some local organisation, by a vote of funds to needy institutions or by being involved fund raising events. In the Queensland jurisdiction this has extended from the building of much needed support infrastructure for the ill to the vote by a small lodge of a few hundred dollars to the blind institute.
Freemasonry does not focus on creed or colour. It focuses on those ideals which should be in the heart of all civilised men. Indeed, we learn early in our masonic career that the cornerstone of Freemasonry is brotherly love, relief and truth. Who would argue that these are not high ideals.
Queensland’s own United Grand Lodge has the following to say “Freemasonry is a multi-racial and multi-cultural organisation. Membership is open to men of all faiths who are 18 years and above, law-abiding, of good
character and who acknowledge a belief in a Supreme Being. You don’t have to wait to be invited or have a family history in Freemasonry – all you need to do is…” ask.
