Letter of the month: August 2008

To: masonry-ask@mit.edu
Subject: Re: Masonry Question
Date: Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:11:53 -0400
From: <dpfan427@aol.com>

Brother Dryfoos,

I wrote you about 2 years ago concerning my situation about being a gay Mason and dealing with the problems that I thought I would face with that situation. I went on tell you about my father who was going to be Grand Master within the coming years. I just wanted to give you an update on my situation as I told you that I would keep in touch.

I can't even begin to tell you how much you helped me and gave me the courage to continue on. My dad will be the Grand Master come February. We discussed my "situation" about 3 weeks after I wrote you. Things are going quite well. I have heard from several brothers who have and are experiencing some of the same issues. One particular Mason, who lives in Australia, has been writing me for the past 2 years. He wanted to join but felt that he would be ousted due to his sexuality. He ended up joining and loves every minute of it. We have became very good friends and talk almost daily. He is the same age as I am and we plan to one day meet and visit each others lodges.

Again, I can't thank you enough for your solid advice and understanding. My greatest fear was that you would not be empathetic to my situation and I would have no one to turn to. I am forever grateful for that. Thank you so very much for being the epitome of a true Mason.

Casey Robinson

Dear Bro. Casey,

I'm so glad to hear from you. I do remember your earlier letter, and I'm glad you got back to me. I still get questions about this occasionally, and your news adds a hopeful and encouraging chapter to the story.

Your courage has enabled you to do a lot, not just for yourself and your family, but other Masons and would-be Masons around the world. You are part of the light we all hope to find and spread.

Please give my fraternal regards to your Dad, and if you can send me some details about his coming installation, perhaps I might be able to travel out that way.

sincerely & fraternally,

-- Gary