Why did you become a Freemason?

Date: Fri, 11 Feb 2000 20:55:12 +1030
From: Eric Wright <ewright@iweb.net.au>
To: dryfoo@MIT.EDU
Subject: Why I Joined Freemasonry

This is a letter from a Past Master (1977) and Foundation Master (1995) of two Lodges in South Australia, and is my entry to the question of my joining Freemasonry.

I was born in England in 1919, the youngest of 11 kids. My father retired from work in 1937 and had a small collection of friends with whom he went for walks in the country etc. (This was in the late 1940's.)

One of them was a prominent businessman, and one glorious summer evening, he called to see my parents. I, who was married by this time, was home on a visit as well.

This gentleman was 'twiddling' a 'drop'consisting of a 'dice' on his watch chain. I asked what all the various symbols on the sides of the cube were all about. He told me that they were Masonic signs. After some conversation, he told me to 'save my pennies' and then go to see him.

As 'pennies' were very scarce then - I had not long been home from 6 and a half years War Service - nothing could be done. I recall that after this gentleman had gone home, I asked my Dad what it was all about. He replied that he did not know much about it, but if I was able, I ought to 'join 'em'!

I migrated to Australia and eventually did "join 'em", in 1960. Since then Freemasonry has become a large part of my life, especially since the death of my wife.

I have served every 'office' in the Lodge, and will shortly be invested as the Director of Ceremonies in the "Lodge of Endeavour" No. 235 on the Register of the Grand Lodge of South Australia.

To anyone asking my opinion about what is to be gained from Freemasonry, my reply is "Nothing, if you put nothing into it". This does not mean material items, but to give of yourself. Only when you start to deliver "Ritual" and take an interest in the running of the Lodge etc. will you get the great and glorious benefits available to any of its members.

Sincerely and Fraternally.

Eric Wright. 4. Christopher Road. Christie Downs. S. Australia. 5164.