One from the vaults…. Reprinted from Grand Lodge Masonic Bulletin, April 1948, vol. xi, no. 8. pp. 59-60

THE FIRST STEP By Bro. W. E. Griffiths, Landmark lodge, No. 128

Submitted by Grand Historian VWB Trevor McKeown

First impressions are a deciding factor in more ways than one, and sometimes misleading conclusions are drawn all too soon without going further into the matter under consideration.

Let us then examine ourselves first on some of the things which we as Freemasons are supposed to uphold and maintain as a sacred trust.  

We were admitted into our lodges in good faith, as men of good morals and sound judgment.  On being admitted we were instructed in the mysteries of a temple where all men irrespective of race or creed met as brothers, provided that each one declared his faith in the Great Architect of the Universe. 

One often wonders just how and where we begin in our endeavours to see the light in present day conditions. Much has been said in the past about our great institution and much has been taken for granted. Yet with all this we face a world which, after two wars, is faced with dark and uncertain days ahead. Is it not a challenge to us to stop and endeavour to “seek for that which was lost” in order that we might find the key to peace and harmony which should prevail between countries and nations as in as in the operation of our lodges? Is this not the aim of every true Freemason?  

What then is the solution? If we as an institution should close our doors to every applicant we should not be any closer to our aim, neither will we be any closer to it by admitting the vast number of members now knocking on our portals.  Let us fully realize that attending every lodge meeting, whether as officer or member, is but a very small part of our life, and something more is needed than the wearing of a masonic ring or an emblem on the lapel of our coat.  

Freemasonry calls for an individual life consecrated to the principles for which it stands, and an individual purpose, for the fulfilment of which the Volume of Sacred Law and the square and compasses are the guide posts. We know what these things stand for, but until men take their Freemasonry into the factory, the store and the office that way of life cannot be manifest or demonstrated as a reality.  

It is neither the theory nor the ethics but the practical side displayed in every business transaction that will add up to a better deal and a saner world where life may be lived as a sacred trust—professing the faith, and living the belief.  Religion or theology without practical outlets is merely nothing, but with practical application it changes the mind and the whole outlook on life. Freemasonry when lived is a demonstration of the value of the great guide posts without which life is but tragedy and frustration. 

 It is the man who takes his masonic knowledge plus his actions into everyday existence that gives out the secrets of true happiness and contentment.  When we as individuals can square ourselves to the principles of Freemasonry and carry them into our everyday affairs then we can expect full dividends from life.  In the midst of the troubles and confusions of our time we may well ask ourselves if we have taken The First Step.