Setting the Bar High

As Masons, we often pride ourselves on our integrity. It brings up the question what does integrity mean to me? Integrity typically means being honest and having strong moral principles. A person with integrity behaves ethically and does the right thing, even when no one is watching.

Integrity is reinforced in the third Degree and references a legend whose symbolic interpretation testifies our faith in the immortality of the soul, while it exemplifies a rare instance of virtue, fortitude, and integrity.

I experienced this firsthand several years ago while attending a work-related event in Washington DC. At that time there was a transit strike, and no taxis were available. My co-worker had recent foot surgery and was using crutches. Getting to our event site for our presentation took quite a bit of walking. When we finished, she was getting very tired. The security guard, a large, kind man took note of our situation. He also took note that I was wearing a Masonic belt buckle. He pulled me aside and after a brief conversation we were both comfortable that we were Brother Masons. He was able to get a friend (I believe he was also a Brother Mason) to come pick us up and take us back to our hotel. It was an immense relief for my co-worker and the experience had a profound impact on me demonstrating the integrity of Masons and we are always there to help a Brother in need.

By attending Lodge and being an active participant, we remind ourselves and reinforce that code of conduct and integrity we strive to live by. These values are just as important today, if not more important, as we continue to face the challenges our society throws at us. We can meet these challenges by Pioneering Masonry Forward.

See you on down the Masonic Trail,

Craig A. Sipp Grand Master 2023-2024