19 Years a Freemason
This month marks the 19th anniversary of an important milestone in my life - becoming a Freemason. On October 12th, 2004, I was initiated as an Entered Apprentice in the Grand Lodge of Indiana, Free & Accepted Masons. The things I learned that first year are wholly applicable to anyone's life, regardless of where they learn them or what organization they belong to.
Looking back, I can see how those initial lessons have continued guiding me personally and professionally over the past two decades. Some of the core principles instilled in me during my early Masonic education were the importance of brotherly love, relief, and truth. Practicing those virtues has helped strengthen my character and relationships.
A key takeaway was the guidance to adopt a system of priorities - to put family, faith, community, and career in proper order. Maintaining balance across those spheres has allowed me to avoid stress and make the most out of each role in my life. It's taught me that our time and energy are limited resources that deserve wise allocation.
The emphasis on personal and intellectual growth has been another valuable lesson. Freemasonry challenged me to constantly seek knowledge and self-improvement through study, contemplation, and applying moral lessons in my daily actions. That drive has helped my career progression as new challenges presented themselves over the years.
Looking ahead, I hope to continue learning and putting into practice the Masonic pillars of wisdom, inner strength, and service to others. The cornerstones laid during my initiation so long ago still ring true and continue shaping me into a better person. I'm grateful for the brotherhood's lasting positive influence on my path through life and work.
If I have one reflection, it's that I wish these Masonic principles of virtue, balanced priorities, and commitment to growth were instilled even earlier in life, such as during high school. So many students would benefit from guidance on cultivating strong character, understanding how to avoid stress and maintain well-being, and discovering the rewards of lifelong learning. It would set them up for healthier, more fulfilling lives after graduation, regardless of their chosen career path. As a society, we'd be well served if more of the teachings I received as a new Freemason were integrated into standard education at a younger age.
