Why did you become a Freemason?

From: "David & Kelly Roach" <DavidandKelly@roachtowers.freeserve.co.uk>
To: <masonry-ask@mit.edu>
Subject: Why I Joined Freemasonry
Date: Sat, 13 Oct 2001 22:39:34 +0100

Dear Brethren,

The first time that I encountered freemasonry was when I met my then girlfriend (and now wife) Kelly. Her stepfather was I understood a freemason as were various facets of her family, and although I was aware of this I was completely unaware of exactly what they undertook and why.

The first Masonic function that I attended was a ladies evening when I was 17 years old. The chivalrous way in which the evening was carried out was amazing for me having grown up in a time where chivalry and tradition are all but dead.

I continued to visit Ladies Evenings and various other social functions and on many occasions tried to broach the subject with my father in law who would always eloquently skirt around the subject until I reached a point where I could not abate my curiosity any further and asked about joining his lodge, which I am pleased to say I am now a member.

Living in England Freemasonry is not without its critics and of course many people have many scruples, particularly about things that they know little about. I understand that at 22 years old I may be one of the youngest freemasons on the planet and don't get me wrong I am neither a religious nut or a nerd (I have played Rugby League for many years - even semi professionally and I enjoy nothing more than being out with the lads after work), I just find freemasonry a refreshing look back to the values on which many great countries where built.

Regards

Dave Roach