Ink of Integrity

I recently read a statement by a prolific author of Masonic content. John Nagy said “Ritual points the way, but it is not the way”. I believe the implication of that statement is that we have to do the work. Knowing what is “right” and applying the tenets of Masonry and morality to yourself are two entirely different things. We can’t just expect from others what we expect to see in the Fraternity. Rather, we need to lead others by example in order to improve the Fraternity across the board. No matter who you are, it starts with you. You need to apply the lessons in the ritual to the various aspects of your own life and make sure the success in doing so is obvious to everyone around you. In other words, “walk the walk”. Recently (the past couple weeks), I’ve been blessed with seeing some really good examples in some of my Brethren. It has been very re-assuring and restored some needed faith in the Fraternity for me. If you have read my previous blog posts, you know that I’ve been s...

Before I mention recent events or future plans, it is contextually important to give some background on my Masonic journey and life leading up to my choice of petitioning. I grew up in the 70’s and 80’s. I lost my mother to cancer when I was six and was estranged from my father by my mother’s family. He served multiple tours in Vietnam and was obviously affected negatively by the experience. This was evident by many of his life choices after returning home. My parents divorced before my mom passed. So, when she did, my grandmother challenged the court and was granted custody of me. An only child being raised by their grandmother makes for an interesting upbringing. Some of you that know me may debate her success in raising me, but I think she did alright or at least the best she could with the likes of me. All joking aside, I had a terrific childhood filled with mostly great memories. But, there was still a void that all young men need, that of a father figure and male role model. ...

As many of you reading this may already know, I have been a Mason for many years. Joining the Fraternity was one of my proudest events. I don’t regret any of my Masonic endeavors and have been privileged to serve in many leadership roles over the years. I have learned many useful tools that are beneficial in the business world as well as social engagements. It has helped me learn myself and thereby improve myself in many areas. The tenets on which Masonry is based are morally based foundations on which to build yourselves. I still very much believe in the principles Masonry represents. I intend to continue following the tenets of Masonry and will happily help others that choose the same path. I continue to support MY Lodge as well as the Fraternity and only want to help it reach the potential it has. Disclaimer: This Blog post and all future ones about the fraternity are MY opinion with the intent on improving the organization. It should NOT reflect the opinions of any Masonic jurisdi...

This blog, Ink of Integrity , is a companion media source to already existing podcasts (see http://modernmoralitymedia.com ).   Modern Morality was our first endeavor. The original focus for it was to have discussions around morality, how the standards and definitions of morality were formed, have changed, and are currently trending in today's world. It was fun, could be serious at times, and was our novice, first attempt at podcasting and we learned a lot about the production and publication process(es). Feedback from our listeners led us to spin off a more narrowly focused series named Rites and Wrongs . Some of our backgrounds and that of many of our followers include being Freemasons. R&W is an attempt to explore the significance of morality in the Masonic Fraternity (Rites, good intentions) and how it was employed, abused, leveraged, and sanctified by its Brethren (and the potential "Wrongs" in its interpretation). It would be an honor if you chose to subscribe ...