Why did you become a Freemason?

Dear Wor. Bro. Dryfoos,

I petitioned for the degrees of Freemasonry after a very rough time in my life. I was 26 years old and diagnosed with a severe intestinal disease which necessitated extreme surgery.

The recovery period was about 5 months.

I was given a book by my father's best friend, "As a Man Thinketh", which is a short volume about thoughts, deeds, and actions, and how we determine what our hearts and souls will become - dark or light - by the manner in which we control ourselves and our thoughts.

I read extensively on Freemasonry during this recovery time, variously raiding the local library and used bookstores. I also came across a Masonic catalogue that showed "As a Man Thinketh" in its pages. Hmmm...now this was starting to make a bit of sense.

I also got in touch with local Masons by calling the Lodges and [sometimes] finding a secretary or a Master there doing some work. They were always pleasant and forthcoming with information, explaining to me what it meant to be a Mason.

I finally recovered enough to return to work in February, 1996. I had a good friend who was very involved with the order of DeMolay and he introduced me to an officer of the Lodge I would eventually petition.

I found the people I have met through Masonry to be some of the finest men and women I know. They have made the experience what is has been for me - a central part of my life. Freemasonry has made me more aware of my moral and psychological person, and aided me in my quest for enlightenment along with my Faith in God and my membership in my Church.

The people, the fellowship, the knowledge, the historical depth, the intelligent discourse, the just plain FUN - have made the last 3 1/2 years some of the finest of my life.

My best regards,

Bro. Pat Bouchard
Sr. Deacon, Librarian & Candidate Instructor
Clifton Lodge #203, F & AM
Clifton, NJ
Captain of the Host
Henry S. Haines Chapter No. 11 of Royal Arch Masons
Bergenfield, NJ