tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336255562024-03-21T15:33:18.911-07:00... least letters, figures or characters ...Thoughts about the Craft. A repository of some personal writings about Freemasonry. You are welcome to read and most certainly welcome to disagree.RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.comBlogger108125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-53746968771466340332016-12-24T12:55:00.000-08:002016-12-24T12:55:01.731-08:00What Does the United States Flag Stand For?by Johanna Olano<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">June 2001</span><br />
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An elegant silhouette against the peaceful blue heavens, swaying gently with the breeze, signifies a constant reminder of its existence as the flag of the United Sates, symbolizing what we are. Created in freedom on June 14, 1777, the American flag was introduced to the world to represent a proud new nation dedicated to the personal and religious liberty of mankind. The flag of the United Sates became an emblem of the people and what would became the greatest constitutional republic in the world.<br />
The red, white, and blue signify the patriotic principle and spiritual elements of American citizens. Red stripes proclaim the bravery of American men and the personal sacrifice and loyalty of American women; white stripes testify liberty and equality. A field of blue denotes heavens well as faith and devotion. The stars portraying each sovereign state.<br />
However, behind those colors and stars lie stories of out fore fathers, the Pilgrims, struggling during their first winter; the Minuteman waiting his death at Concord Bridge; the army of men freezing and starving at valley Forge; and of the settler cutting trees on his new land. It is the story of liberation that people see in the multitude of blessings, and of the right and privileges that is the essence of our country.<br />
Americas's birthright, its heritage of liberty acquired with blood, pain, and sorrow is what the flag epitomizes. Moreover, the flag is the scared emblem of our country, the Unites States of America. Once in awhile, we reflect on those who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Within the flag, the faces of those who fought for our very freedom can be seen, their pain felt, their bravery and service commended, their memory kept alive. Embodying America freedom and the sanctity of the home, the flag remains a reminder of our rights and duties. Swaying in the high heavens with pride and distinction, the star spangled banner forever signifies liberty, justice, and humanity, a constant remembrance of greatness, a reason to live and a reason to die for.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*** Printed at The Lemoore Advance June 7, 2001. This essay won the National Fleet Reserve Association's 2001 Americanism-Patriotism Essay Contest for 12th grade group.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-37133175913747142722016-05-26T10:33:00.000-07:002016-05-26T10:33:01.883-07:00About: Sworn In Secret by Sanford Hoist<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">by Rudy Olano</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOC4QmkUayotWqEBLbpqDZ3LoweV5wVaZ5elqONQb2XHellX_uLpfPLfIia6p-mqNvD3bCvN5bGXrQPQUjEudEM132WSrK3NKb2PggPPRfcPXMsttFngztVBw9I8UM8LexALw/s1600/TIM.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOC4QmkUayotWqEBLbpqDZ3LoweV5wVaZ5elqONQb2XHellX_uLpfPLfIia6p-mqNvD3bCvN5bGXrQPQUjEudEM132WSrK3NKb2PggPPRfcPXMsttFngztVBw9I8UM8LexALw/s1600/TIM.gif" /></a>Sworn in Secret: Freemasonry and Knights Templar by Sanford Hoist. In line with John J Robinson's Born in Blood, this book with high probability wont get a heartfelt endorsement from mainstream Grand Lodges as it traces the connection/origin of Freemasonry to Knights Templar. Most especially, the book will get trashed by anti-Mason liberals and conservatives alike as the author connects the founding of US by personages who happened to be Freemasons--- m<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">en who knew the importance of freedom, tolerance and an ideal bigger than themselves. The author/historian presented his research in plain language without masonic terms and lingo that irritate some uninitiated readers. A worthy reading material and source of light---- recommend to all Masons or non Masons. Truth is what we want to believe.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sworn-Secret-Freemasonry-Knights-Templar/dp/0983327939" rel="nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.amazon.com/Sworn-Secret-Freemasonry…/…/0983327939</a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-8843842195169415982015-01-28T11:10:00.000-08:002015-06-27T08:53:05.983-07:00Equilibrium<div class="defaultFont">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">rmolano</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">27Jan2015</span></div>
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Finding equilibrium in our daily life is not an art nor science, its more of embracing relativism not so much of transcendentalism often intrinsic to those with docile and faithful heart.<br />
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Extremists comes from all kinds of religious groups, brain washed from young age and never questioned the norm their faith, fanatics who only think of only of their own "salvation" at the expense of others, ignorant beings who thinks their god is better than anyone else. Muslims, Christians, Jews, etc, butchered one another in the name of their god. Human instinct in its rawest form----survival even after death, dreaming of strumming harp with wings at their back and halo over their head, or smiling to the prospect of spending endless time with seventy virgins. Not all Nigerians are rapist, not all Muslims are Nigerians, not all Filipino politicians are corrupt, not all Masons are good men and not all we read are true. The Prince of the Royal Secret Degree teaches us there is a value in finding the balance in our life--- it could be the secret we are all in search of.</div>
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RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-84243323457594064022014-01-30T12:17:00.001-08:002014-02-05T10:56:26.995-08:00Pride and Elitism<span style="font-size: xx-small;">by Rudy Olano</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">30Jan2014</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> for those who long to sit where the Sun rises </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">and to those who hear the sound of silver trumpet at early dawn and eve of day,</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> the glory is what was done for others not the jewel to show around</span>. </span></div>
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A story about pride, humility, arrogance and elitism. These words exemplify both extremes of human characters. Some people were born with these qualities as imbedded in their DNA and some learn to adopt it for their own reasons. In our Fraternity the idea of making a good men a better man has been the object of the hidden mysteries of Freemasonry. The repetitive reminder of receiving others in a morally upright mindset, dealing fairly on an even ground, ensuring correctness of one actions or parting upon the square are not just an arcane mindless ritual but of a part of veiled allegories and illustrated by symbols of a moral system known as Freemasonry. Every members of this Craft are thought that every symbols has meaning and that includes the mandatory requirement of reciting certain pledge as an metaphor of the importance of keeping ones word---it's a teaching tool or another symbol and not to be taken literally. These are just few of unique methods our Craft utilized to turn rough ashlar into a polished marble -- from good men to a better man.</div>
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The story starts with two good men who the narrator remembered before they petitioned for degrees in Freemasonry. One was personally interviewed and the other was received upon the point of sharp instrument. Both of these Brethren went on to became Masters of their own Lodges. Invited at the Lodge installation of officers, naturally the narrator was full of pride in seeing the personal accomplishments of those he have some minuscule part of their labor. Although being away from the area for sometime, the old timers recognized the narrator and were reminiscing gone by days when a past master noted a Masonic pin on the lapel of the long lost brother. With a loud voice this PM invited other PM announcing that the narrator is wearing "their" pin ie past master pin. Red faced with unexpected drama, all the narrator did was to mumble that it is not a PM pin but of Cryptic Masons pin. Few years passed, the narrator was again invited by a PM on his re-installation to the Eastern chair. And like a bad dream that comes true, the scenario played out once again. However, this time the narrator evoked a Masonic teaching of counsel to ears to the grinning PM and pointed out that the same question was asked few years back and the same answer will be given. That the narrator was not and never claimed to be a past master of a blue lodge and that pin is a symbol of purple Council of Cryptic Masons. This time the now serious PM took time and a closer look of the lapel pin. With his own discovery, he noted the trowel instead of a letter G common to blue Lodge symbology. </div>
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The feeling of accomplishment and the resulting pride in oneself are illustrated in both extremes, the narrator pride in seeing his minuscule part of someone accomplishment is different from the PM belief that only they can wear "their" pin. For humans who exerted so much to a certain endeavor, sometimes the feeling of self entitlement seriously clashed with a notion called humility. Humility unchecked is arrogance and with arrogance comes the feeling of being cocooned within the protective walls of elitism. There are those within the walls of our Fraternity see themselves as the sole owners of Masonic symbols and non members who use such were treated as unequal or unworthy of the lessons of plumb, level and square. For a moral system which encourage fairness, brotherhood, toleration, the proliferation of symbols and practices that suggest elitism such as colors, designs, titles, etc., are so prevalent that one has to wonder --- who we are now a days? Despite of what we learned, it seems that the simple unblemished white apron is not enough for those who thought they worked harder than the rest therefore, entitled to a special symbol, group and titles. There is a lesson in Scottish Rite's thirty second degree which applies to all persons, Masons or not, York Rite or not, blue Lodge PM or not --- it is about finding, understanding, and maintaining balance in our life. It is about enjoying the feeling of being proud without the stigma of arrogance, of being humble without label of elites and ultimately being illuminated to see the darkness of our own soul. </div>
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Who am I, whence I came from and what I came here to do? These are the basic questions we learned to ask ourselves. We memorized the correct responses but internalized the real answers. Having sat in the East and tasted the power of the gavel, a different question applies to a now Past Master. Like the basic questions which has two set of answers one official and one that really matters--- the answer that resides within the vault of our inner crypt that stores all our real consciousness --- what did I really accomplished, is it for my Brethren, my family or for myself? Response could be easy if we truly understand the difference between pride, humility, arrogance and elitism. </div>
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RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-86077474665790892302013-12-13T12:39:00.000-08:002015-02-13T15:40:42.530-08:00Friday 13th<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSHMmbo8dfsiXCJtBUnJN-Bpva3kEOtX9QYcIRXiOfYxb1q3PUiwp2bLrdxtATct8ShKUNPA-wLHTN8EBBm89OpXKXy0lkbJVa5qrIPDU0ubecu899AY7jTW3j38t3zIN5m-Ia/s1600/TIM.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">By Rudy Olano</span></em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Friday
the thirteenth is day that can trigger different emotions from people with superstitious
belief that is embedded and sprinkled within Eastern and Western cultures. Pondered
as unlucky day, the combination of tragic Friday and number thirteen created a
combination that some folklore heralded as “unlucky day.” Seafarers considered starting
voyage on Friday is unlucky. Christians observed crucifixion and death of Jesus
on Friday. As the faithful mourned on this day, strangely they called it as “Good
Friday.” Though number twelve is favored due to its wholeness, e.g., <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>twelve months in a year, twelve hours in a day,
twelve tribes of Israel, twelve Apostles of Jesus, twelve successors of Muhammad,
etc.. thirteen is irregular, out<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>of
place, order, and unbalance. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">A
version of the origin of fridaythirteenphobia<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>steams from the same day in October 1307 when the King of France
arrested hundreds of members of Knights Templar. Many were tortured and died
during advance interrogation techniques of the day. Recent books such as John J Robinson’s
Born in Blood: The Lost Secrets of Freemasonry and Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci
Code spread this historical event. The legend of the Grand Master cursing the
King and Pope and the eventual fulfillment of the damnation also marked the end
of the Knights Templar as an organization. And that’s what accepted history
wanted us to believe. But did it or not? Did the Order ceased to exist along
with its accumulated wealth and treasures or went underground and morphed into
something else?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The
end of the Order might be true in France and Italy but the King of France doesn’t
have authority in Germany, Spain, England or Cyprus. English even claimed that
the Knights Templars aided<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Scottish King
Robert the Bruce during the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. Portugal with the
King Dinis I sponsorship, Knights Templar became Order of Christ in 1317 thus saving
members from prosecution while the King received strong ally in military capabilities
and economic muscle. Noted explorers such as Henry the Navigator, Vasco da Gama
and Ferdinand Magellan <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>are known members
of the Order and its worth mentioning that Christopher Columbus’ flagship Santa
Maria sails was adorned with Templars red pattee. In our contemporary time, it
is quite interesting to see the red pattee adorned the habiliment of Pope
Francis. For an organization rich with traditions, red cross on a white sash or
robe is a symbol with a statement. ... Veiled in allegories and illustrated by
symbols... hiding in plain sight---only those who understand the symbols will
appreciate the secrets or mysteries. The Knights Templars unfortunate Friday
13th, red pattee on Santa Maria’s sail or Pope’s garment are all symbols with
different meaning to those who see refraction of light from a prism of his own belief.
Beauty is in the eyes of beholder which speaks volume of its likeness to the
definition of Freemasonry. Like symbol with intended meaning but can be
interpreted in a different languages, are we seeking relative truth or the
absolute truth--- what we are really in search of? </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSHMmbo8dfsiXCJtBUnJN-Bpva3kEOtX9QYcIRXiOfYxb1q3PUiwp2bLrdxtATct8ShKUNPA-wLHTN8EBBm89OpXKXy0lkbJVa5qrIPDU0ubecu899AY7jTW3j38t3zIN5m-Ia/s1600/TIM.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSHMmbo8dfsiXCJtBUnJN-Bpva3kEOtX9QYcIRXiOfYxb1q3PUiwp2bLrdxtATct8ShKUNPA-wLHTN8EBBm89OpXKXy0lkbJVa5qrIPDU0ubecu899AY7jTW3j38t3zIN5m-Ia/s1600/TIM.gif" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><em>by
RmOlano </em></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>27 April 2013<o:p></o:p></em></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">An </span>edited compilation of
several exchanges of opinions with a Brother of the Craft at League of Masons
forum.</span> </span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN;">The
elected leader of Roman Catholic Church issued a Papal Bull declaring
Freemasonry is not compatible to Catholic Dogma. That ruling was never been
rescinded, withdrawn, or even modified in since. The <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">letter from the </span>Judicial Vicar of <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Office of the Archdiocesan Tribunal, Archdiocese of Los Angeles, dated
September 15, 2000, to the Masonic Service Bureau of North America </span>of
positive support to our Craft is a personal comment that went against the
position taken by the highest possible leader of the RCC. It is obvious that
even clergy knows who we are and what we stand for but for obvious reason they
have to support their leader’s ruling. Let us not forget that the ex-Pope
Benedict was the former Cardinal Ratzinger who used to be the head enforcer i.e.
Prefect of the Congregation of Doctrine of Faith which was formerly known as </span><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Supreme Sacred
Congregation of the Roman and Universal Inquisition</span><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"> or simply Holy Office <span style="color: #333333;">before
his election to the Throne of Peter. He did not introduce an iota of change
relative to status of Catholic men joining Freemasonry during his term</span></span>.
Before his predecessor Pope John Paul II passed away the popular Pope issued
statement of apology to the victims of the excesses of the Church i.e. mistakes
of the institution during the period known as Inquisition. He never ask for
forgiveness for the injustice and suffering given to their own servants---
Knights Templar. Only history would tell if this new Pope will see different
light and be bold enough to acknowledge that the Craft is not a threat to the
Catholic Church. It is the myopic vision of those who are afraid to lose power
and control of their fiefdom are the real threat to the soul of this Western ecclesiastical
establishment.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Inquisition
is persecution. When people were burned alive, tortured or thrown to dungeon
for mere suspicion of being a Freemason, engaged in witchcraft, homosexual or
believing such a blasphemous thought such as the world is round and rotates
around the sun, the entity which allows, condones, sponsored such heinous acts
ceased it legitimacy to claim that God is on their side. Anyone who tries to
argue with those who believe that there is justification that Inquisition was a
legitimate action against "...members committing acts contrary to its
beliefs, doctrine, precepts and law..." and agree "that's regulation"
should be forewarned of the futility so such exchange. Spanish Inquisition was
blessed and carried out by members of the RCC. Though Jews and Muslims were the
original targets, later on these purging activities specifically latched on any
suspected or actual Freemasons. This far reaching cleansing action can be
attributed to the executions of Freemasons in the Philippines notably to a
fellow known as Jose Rizal. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Bro
Kenneth Gibala, PM, Benjamin B French Lodge No. 15 once said that be careful of
describing an organization that you don't belong for what you might hear are
just hearsay. Truth is what an individual want to believe regardless of facts.
When the RCC apologized for its abuses to humanity during Inquisition why it is
those victims who were persecuted because of their membership to certain group such
as Knight Templar or Freemasonry are not qualified for apology? There is no
animosity between Freemasonry and Roman Catholic Church; there is animosity
from RCC to our Fraternity--- big difference my dear Brother. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Freemasonry
taught to those who would listen to refrain from accepting what seems to be
obvious and be knowledgeable to discern that there are messages behind abstract
ideas. Hiding in plain sight, seeing with eyes wide shut or squaring the circle
are not just metaphors but could mean something to those whose attempting to
reach the level of illumination where he truly see the darkness of my soul. “....
Veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols,” many so-called learned
members parroted the lectures without understanding the message they delivered,
many candidates just sat there with glazed eyed trying not to sleep, some
thought its show biz or Oscar award night, but some do think twice and tried to
figure out what really is the Craft all about.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">...</span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-32235712092275464822012-04-28T18:29:00.000-07:002012-05-26T04:48:21.147-07:00Great Divinity<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU6TsCo44obg85TSceg4KgsffHQcql-RMwRA0R6y-C9-wgksp5QnHc4TDMFElbsL3GDeCwLrKtit26EmcpSuPJg5x3sxri_emwASVw0sYHDmvHnYk1cIgqQWx8TwpXESJXE8bHkQ/s1600/crosspatee3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU6TsCo44obg85TSceg4KgsffHQcql-RMwRA0R6y-C9-wgksp5QnHc4TDMFElbsL3GDeCwLrKtit26EmcpSuPJg5x3sxri_emwASVw0sYHDmvHnYk1cIgqQWx8TwpXESJXE8bHkQ/s1600/crosspatee3.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">by RmOlano</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">22Apr12</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">… could you, at least, articulate on this phrase which forms part of the lecture … "it is the inspiration of that great divinity whom we adore and bears the nearest resemblance or affinity to that supreme intelligence which will never, never, never die"? — Bro GabeS</span><br />
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Freemasonry was described by Bro Albert Pike as "a system of morality, veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols." Majority of lessons or mysteries we heard through lectures are not to be taken literally which includes the Masonic Obligation. This iconic Masonic furniture is about teaching the value of individual honor through keeping his word. The graphic description of penalties of violation are just metaphors and only lunatic would ever execute such commitment. Like the ever popular volume of sacred laws by many religious beliefs, the stories, parables, and yarns were intricate if ever can be historically verified. The main purpose of the documents is to deliver messages of faith and to strike fear to the subjects. For lack of better word, many of these volumes could be described in contemporary times as “sound bites” whose aim is to deliver the concept and influence the intended audience. In previous relatively modern times, the written media is known as propaganda and in Western spiritual realm it is called Bible. In Judeo-Christian writings, the only written instructions made by God were inscribed on stone through lightning bolts. All others were written by men claiming divine intervention. <br />
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As to the inquiry, my take on the phrase is that it suggests the existence of a "lower or lesser" divine being that looked or appears to be like the "higher or greater" being. If we are to place the drama into religious context, a Christian follower could interpret this statement as the sacrifice of their Lord to save His followers as instructed by His Father. The Roman Catholic Dogma of Holy Trinity could easily rationalize the issue of three being is really one. If we subscribed to Islamic faith and substitute this character as the prophet Mohammed, the phrase would make sense as the prophet never declared himself as God and demand the people unquestioning obedience to the rules of their faith. The concept of divinity class might be foreign to Eastern spiritual practice as they beleive that those mortals who strive to attain the level of perfection or enlightenment accepted that the state of happiness can be found when equilibrium rules the universe. <br />
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Aside from standard stage of initiatory rites with mandatory “death” experience, one of the messages of the second section of our Masonic education was about standing for what we believe despite of adversity or even in the face death. By looking into the face value of the drama, the message was clear and does provide a rudimentary sense for candidate going through initiatory experience. The use of the word “divinity" in summarizing our Masonic drama however, throw a curved ball into what could be otherwise a straight lesson of honor and mortality. As there is no reference ever that the main character---GMHA is/was god or divine, the insertion of the word “divinity” allow the students of the Craft to contemplate a notion that mortals were fashioned with the likeness of immortals and to be with God, we have to be like-god---- a heretical idea to some religious entity but then again, whose <a href="http://rmolano.blogspot.com/2007/12/like-religion.html">religious</a> clique you are with? <br />
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…</div>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-75806257459582748742012-03-06T10:30:00.000-08:002012-03-06T10:30:24.387-08:00What We Are Afraid Of<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU6TsCo44obg85TSceg4KgsffHQcql-RMwRA0R6y-C9-wgksp5QnHc4TDMFElbsL3GDeCwLrKtit26EmcpSuPJg5x3sxri_emwASVw0sYHDmvHnYk1cIgqQWx8TwpXESJXE8bHkQ/s1600/crosspatee3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU6TsCo44obg85TSceg4KgsffHQcql-RMwRA0R6y-C9-wgksp5QnHc4TDMFElbsL3GDeCwLrKtit26EmcpSuPJg5x3sxri_emwASVw0sYHDmvHnYk1cIgqQWx8TwpXESJXE8bHkQ/s1600/crosspatee3.png" uda="true" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>by RmOlano</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>6Mar12</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em><br /> </em></span><br />
It 's somewhat amazing how one’s thought could wander after being left alone in a small room after a corpsman poke your arm with needle and attached probes all over your chest. Lying down on a sterile white bed sheet, body half propped up, while looking down to your faded blue jeans and desert boots, the quietness and steady humming of air conditioner induce a trance like effect to one’s situational awareness. What is going on and what is going to happen next when that door opens up. Another tests, another poking or some sort of medically correctness judgment from a white robed authority of human life expectancy? You fight the urge to pull the needle and tubes sticking in your veins and find out if you are somehow forgotten within the chaos of a place called emergency care unit. <br />
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It's also somewhat amusing to drive, walk yourself into urgent care unit and "surrender" your physical being to distant people who perform their job mechanically without emotions. Watching the activities of these professionals make one appreciate that not all humans are meant to be like them. Tending broken bones, attending screaming children, calming down impatient old man is a form of art not science. Each case is different as each patient is an individual being. To approach them as a mere number meant a loss of identity and its humanity not only from care giver side but from both from both end. Although there is a truism of a notion that not everyone can be doctors or nurses, there is an equal truth that everyone can be human with intrinsic compassion. <br />
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Looking back to times when one have to convince one soul that staying longer on this earth meant and worth something. An inner voice within the deep bowels of one heart is a song about ignoring a fact that going through medical procedure only delay what the future awaits all mortal beings. There is no escape to where we all bound to go.. no matter how many laurels of victory be placed on one’s head nor diadems be placed on one’s chest by Eastern potentate, our sand will keep on pouring until nothing is left behind. Living one’s life with morals and ethics to the fullest is a simple chalice on a supper table and a grail to be discovered for it is the swan dance of a classic dancer, an opus of a writer or dream of a dreamer because unlike time… Life is finite.<br />
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Looking to this white clad bespectacled man, throwing medical terms with such precision and ease as if normal man can understand what those meant, the apparition disappeared before one can even comprehend what went on. So again you are left alone and wait and begin again to ponder, to continue where you left off… it seems like a rat race after you see your kids are on their way living or running their own race. So after doing our duty to ensure the continuance of human race by reproducing off springs, what lies ahead for us? it appears like we are swimming the great salmon route, struggling to survive the trek downstream toward great ocean only to fight again to return to the same river to spawn and became nutrient of the great Alaskan wilderness. Yes, there is a delta between fish and man, the difference between salmon and us is our belief that there is a soul within us, a hope that there is something waiting for us Afterlife. An ideal inculcated to our consciousness by our parents that there is something better beyond this experience we call life. So if that is the case, if that notion is true and if there is a place we can all see each other again in an ideal place where unhappiness does not exists, why we are afraid of leaving this mortal world, why don't we accept that passing away is a part of life? why don't we welcome death as a messenger that would translate us from this earthly home to that heavenly domain where the Great Architect of the Universe forever presides? Why or what we are afraid of ? For travelers who seek---this is where we are going to find the final answer for the search of that which was lost. SMIB.<br />
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</div>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-52061726959780664062011-12-03T08:12:00.003-08:002011-12-05T11:04:10.996-08:00Cymbals Or Trumpets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU6TsCo44obg85TSceg4KgsffHQcql-RMwRA0R6y-C9-wgksp5QnHc4TDMFElbsL3GDeCwLrKtit26EmcpSuPJg5x3sxri_emwASVw0sYHDmvHnYk1cIgqQWx8TwpXESJXE8bHkQ/s1600/crosspatee3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU6TsCo44obg85TSceg4KgsffHQcql-RMwRA0R6y-C9-wgksp5QnHc4TDMFElbsL3GDeCwLrKtit26EmcpSuPJg5x3sxri_emwASVw0sYHDmvHnYk1cIgqQWx8TwpXESJXE8bHkQ/s1600/crosspatee3.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>by RmOlano</em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>3Dec11</em></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>The less you feel the pain, the less you care or love.</em></span></div>
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Reaction to sorrow depends on individual threshold of pain. Holy persons might react the way religious people believed that their “… suffering can make us more sensitive servant of God” however, normal people prefer not to endure pain or be subjected to misery. Saints loved to be blamed and be kicked around, pa-awa (self-pity) syndrome; they loved the word, "Kawawa naman ." People turn to God mostly if the situation is so hopeless, "Magdasal na lang tayo " Downtrodden mortal beings are "more" sensitive because there is nothing left, no more humanly possible option. People who known pain typically try to forget the feeling, we put distance between ourselves from that experience. Pain and suffering are usually something not to be shared with.<br />
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It is hard talk about God without getting into religion which resembles as discussing national economic condition without discoursing politics. In light of numerous and consistent posting of topic about how the Brethren thought what God wants us to do, what we should do to please Him, how suffering is a way of God’s demonstration of power, etc., I ask the Brethren indulge me to make some observation about this subtle proselytizing. Let remind ourselves that disagreement does not correlate to disrespect. I do respect each individual belief and I expect the same in return. One, No mortal being knows what God is thinking, we could only guess and hope what we did is close to what we approximate to His wish. Two, all “Holy Books” were written by mortals with biased agenda bar none. Three, "GOD" is not a name; it is a title like Christ or GAOTU. Knowing His personal name is to embark on a journey which for some is a lifetime commitment and finding out His real name is to know the Ultimate Truth.<br />
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Many people try to "talk" to God but only few could claim that they heard Him "talked back." Many would attest that the "voice" they heard was their conscience. Now, if those Christian brothers who love to quote these metaphors from their <a href="http://rmolano.blogspot.com/2011/10/to-my-brother.html">Volume of Sacred Law</a> (VSL) could tell this free thinker that the "voice" I heard was not my conscience or my soul but from the Spirit I talked and prayed, would that meant that the Spirit is in my body? If that is the case and if it is true, then the logic would be that I am also I AM WHAT I AM? These questions that being asked are meant not to trifle the Brother person or feeling but to teach me an important lesson in Freemasonry --- Searching for that which was lost. <br />
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The practice of preaching one's religious leaning with such regularity lead people like me to believe that they seems know what they are talking about. Asking for light to those who appear to possess some sort of heavenly insight and purposely discount inquiries to these "heavenly messages" is very disappointing to say the least. <br />
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In the spirit of being on the level, for those who love to post issues or messages on public domain, it is civilized to respond to question posed by those who took time to read their thought. It is rude and ill manner to ignore serious questions especially when one is professing to have the intellectual well of knowledge of the given subject. An "I don’t know" answer is an acceptable response for not everybody has an answer to all possible problems. Bypassing the question and pressing into other topic shows that these postings are just a sound of emptiness of tinkling cymbals instead of silver trumpets in the early dawn and eve of day. If these faithful disciples of their chosen faith desire to convert unbelievers, they should stand up, explain and/or defend their Dogma otherwise, these preaching are just a show of “I am holier than thou” which meant nothing except showing the hollowness of such character. <br />
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<br />RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-32239407100832134892011-11-11T21:11:00.002-08:002011-12-03T08:25:42.597-08:00On Vet Day 11-11-11<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU6TsCo44obg85TSceg4KgsffHQcql-RMwRA0R6y-C9-wgksp5QnHc4TDMFElbsL3GDeCwLrKtit26EmcpSuPJg5x3sxri_emwASVw0sYHDmvHnYk1cIgqQWx8TwpXESJXE8bHkQ/s1600/crosspatee3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU6TsCo44obg85TSceg4KgsffHQcql-RMwRA0R6y-C9-wgksp5QnHc4TDMFElbsL3GDeCwLrKtit26EmcpSuPJg5x3sxri_emwASVw0sYHDmvHnYk1cIgqQWx8TwpXESJXE8bHkQ/s1600/crosspatee3.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>by RmOlano</em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>11-11-11</em></span><br />
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There were times when as a non US citizen I was categorized as a mercenary which by definition can be argued as somewhat closer to the classical definition of the word. But having earned the right to be a US citizen while in active duty, I can honestly claim that I am with my country's Navy.<br />
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"Again, I do thank our Brother for his acknowledgement and glad that he accepted the fact that those who chosen to raised their right hand to serve and protect the Constitution of their ADOPTED country have the moral responsibility to carry it through. The negative connotations, innuendos and speculation against the country I honorably served in uniform for twenty-one years is not something I will take lightly though. Despite of my heritage and culture of "old country," despite of my color and physical feature, despite of my language accent and grammar, the day I wear the uniform of U.S. and swear to defend it's Constitution against foreign and domestic--- I am no longer what I used to be. More than once, I and those who were neither citizen of both countries were labeled "mercenaries." For those who allowed themselves to be "conscripted" and did it for the money--- the label could be true but for those of us from poor families without padrinos and connections, saw the "conscription" as a chance, as an opportunity to make our lives better. Maybe some of the readers may call it, unpatriotic, they have their opinions and properties in the Philippines, but I have my American dream, a small house, a job, and college opportunities for my children. Between paying taxes, voting in local and national elections, jury duties and Naval Service, for all intent and practical purposes, I am an American and I do not appreciate anyone bashing <a href="http://rmolano.blogspot.com/2007/08/my-country.html">MY country</a>---the United States of America."<br />
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<br />RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-74196353709637904622011-10-08T10:54:00.006-07:002011-10-09T09:33:07.731-07:00To My Brother<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">rmolano</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">8Oct2011</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">…. To my dear true brother….</span></div>
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We disagreed on the issue that all Holy Books were written by human with biases and agenda. According to Christian Bible, the only instructions written by God himself were given to Moses and he broke it because people don’t believe him. If we consider that “somebody” made the prophets and apostles to do what they did--- then should we free a whole lot of people incarcerated in jails because, “somebody/someone” made them did what they did? If we have confidence in those stories/legends made by people who went to wilderness and came back half starve to death and almost crazy with thirst and declared that they have “seen the light” then so be it. However, I don’t hence, we are in disagreement. The Christian Bible was assembled from very selected writings collected by early Christians. The selection process was highly politicized and those who were not in agreement were eventually banished to the desert monasteries. The Council of Nicaea in 325 AD laid the ground rule of what will be acceptable or heretical. As we know, the Council was called by Constantine for political reason and was attended by about 200-300 Bishops out of about 1800 throughout Christian world. The Christian Bible or as Freemasons call it along with Quran/Koran, Talmud, Tao-te-ching, Upanishads, Bhagadvad Gita, Analects, etc., as one of the “Volume of Sacred Law.” They are only applicable to those who believe in it. </div>
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Christians were proclaiming the nearness of “end” of the World for almost 2000 years. They truly believed that the time has come when Crusaders took Jerusalem from Muslims, as they and their neighbors Jews and Muslims alike were slaughtered by invading Crusaders---kill them all, God will sort out who are His flock ordered by the Pope. Then came World War 1, WW2, Cold War, etc. Fear is a powerful weapon that has been consistently used by those with power throughout the ages to control people mind/behavior. Fascist, Communists, terrorist, non-Christians, Anunakis, you name it, name calling were used by everyone even religious leaders. I agree that this world will come to an end but it’ll take a while. The history of this world were shaped by shifting continents, earth crusts colliding with each other thereby creating new landscapes that has direct effect on living things inhabiting the surface. This process continues unabated since time immemorial with or without human existence in consideration.</div>
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There was a time when knowing ones name is a sign of acknowledgement of being equal or superior. That’s why commoners call their owners as e.g., “Lord of Brittany” or simply “Lord.” It was punishable by death if commoners to even look on their King’s face as much as calling the King with his first name such as Richard. Name is or was as personal that you can be with that individual therefore; God’s name is no different. To claim to know God’s personal name is the mother of all claim if you ask me. Titles such as God, Christ, Ama, Banal na Isa are NOT names, they are substitute to a real name like Rodolfo who you call utol. Though the idea is the same (person or being) the designation is unique i.e., there are many Rodolfo but you only have one utol. If you redefine the meaning of utol but retained the meaning of who I am then you can have many utol as you like but only one real brother--- me. There is a difference between name and title.</div>
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There is notion that calls for a study of how to be a moral and ethical man, an idea of making good men to be a better man. This concept has a very basic rule that to be accepted into the mist is that a man has to have belief in Supreme Being and Afterlife. The candidate’s particular Faith is immaterial and no relevance to the Craft--- only his character and his willingness to “improve himself” are essential prerequisite. This study was often described as “a system of morality veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols.” One of the major lesson or mysteries is not to accept literally of what we see, hear or feel for there might be messages hidden beyond the thin veil of façade we often encounter in our experience we know as life. Sadly to say that most Brethren stopped in searching for that which was lost and were satisfied to the given substitute which led me to ponder --- we stopped because we already found what we are looking for hence, at peace with ourselves or are we aware that looking for answer is far easier than knowing the question? A path to enlightenment is to inquire when I can see the darkness of my soul for only the All-Seeing Eye can see what is in my heart. To be able to see through the depth of shallow mortal existence is to approximate one’s nearness to the final stage of illumination and perhaps to immortality.</div>
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</div>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-85223988724444851592011-10-01T20:51:00.004-07:002011-10-09T09:37:39.540-07:00Recognition<span lang="EN" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span><br />
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></em><span lang="EN" style="font-size: x-small; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><em>rmolano</em></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size: x-small; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><em>… in my research, IGLPI has been found to be regular in origin and practice. how do you think can it best get recognition from other Grand Lodges—Bro CarlosS</em></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">First allow me to thank you for throwing a very interesting inquiry which without a doubt some our Masonic scholars in Masonic jurisprudence are certainly grappling for the answers. Far from possessing in-depth knowledge of intricacies of the Grand Lodge policies, my opinion in your inquest is only one of million views available out there in the galaxy of thought of those who care about the subject. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Each Grand Lodge is sovereign entity and can declare blue as black or yellow as orange. Once approved by membership, no other Grand Lodge can change that decision and the only option is to “withdraw” their “recognition.” That is the nature of being sovereign. Many Grand Lodges took years to be recognized by other Grand Lodges, the Grand Lodge of Japan took a “beating” before GLP finally recognized its “own” daughter. We heard the word “Time and patience will take care of things” from one of our lectures. For those who can’t wait--- the quickest way is the hardest option. This is for GLP to let go the mentality that GLP is the sole “authority” of all Masons in the Philippines. For GLP to consider that “territorial exclusivity” is as always a political tool to gain control of claimed territory. Many countries do have multiple Grand Lodges in their country and they all co-exist in harmony e.g. US with fifty Grand Lodges, Canada, Germany, Australia, etc. If GLP extend its right hand to IGLPI and as well as to GLNF, it’ll be a downhill run from then on. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From what I gathered, IGLPI is expanding as new Lodges are being consecrated. Although creating more Lodges under IGLPI has certainly had a positive trend, the quality of IGPI membership will make the difference between the Masonic Bodies. Let us remind ourselves that Freemasonry is not intended to be a large organization, there are requirements to be satisfied---mental aptitude, financial ability, and upright character. The credibility of the organization in terms of moral and ethical doings of its officers and members are visible to the public especially to those who want to follow the footsteps of “those who have gone that way before.” There is no need to neither produce fancy slogans nor toot their own horn; good men will be attracted to same caliber of men they want to be associated with. Freemasonry is not about networking, rings, dues card, car decals or “my gang is better than yours.” It is an ideal within a group of good men who strive to be a better man, men with morals, and employs ethical values in their daily life will be always be recognized --- if not on this earth, it will in a place where the ultimate Truth would bestow him his place in an Ark anchored within the peaceful harbor where at last we can unload our human baggage and be at peace at last. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>by RmOlano</em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>26July2010</em></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Does Rizal really denounced freemasonry during his trial in Fort Santiago? --- Bro Erick</span><br />
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First allow me to say that in no way shape or form that I can be considered as a historian nor subject master expert on Jose "Rizal" Mercado's biography. Having said that it is just fair to say that Bro Jose's last minute "retraction" of Freemasonry and/or returning back to fold of Catholic dogma is still being debated by experts. The "evidence" presented by the Church is being contested for its validity. In his fourteen paragraph Ultimo Adios, Bro Jose mentioned God twice and never by His name. The Catholic Dogma is very clear in regards to naming Name. Unlike Manuel Quezon, PGM who in August 1930 demitted not only from his Lodge but was on the record that he "resigned" from the Fraternity because of Masonic and Catholic ideology conflict. Now why is that "small" detail was not even hinted nor mentioned in the official History of Philippine Masonry published and sanctioned by the Grand Lodge of the Philippines? </div>
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As a young veteran Manuel L Quezon, the future first Filipino Grand Master of GLP was "taken under the wings" of American Freemasons. His meteoric political flight from the rank of Major during revolution to Presidency of the Commonwealth of the Philippines was not a matter of luck or chances. If we are to believe that his rediscovered religion guided him to the places he was in then we ought to consider whose hands actually placed him where he can assert his "calling." We should not be naïve to remember that during Quezon's period, American expansionism policy influenced every political, economic, and military affair of the islands. Although the official version of the cause of returning to Catholic Church was due to his children, it could be postulated that Quezon's resignation from Freemasonry in 1930 was a political statement to the Americans that he was no longer bound to American policy. Being an ardent nationalist, Quezon was possibly thinking about his other children--- the Filipino people. One could also wonder if Philippines would fare better in terms of pre- WW2 American military and economic aid from Bro Franklin Roosevelt Administration had Quezon did not demitted from the Craft.</div>
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There is a lesson in the Prince of Royal Secret degree or better known as 32 Degree of Scotish Rite that emphasized the importance of balance in our life. To achieve equilibrium is to maintain harmony, to support harmony there must be Truth and without Truth there is no Justice.<br />
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I salute those who fought for truth to achieve justice, may you find your equilibrium hence, harmony of your spirit. You know who you are as He is what He said He is. I thank the Brother for the nice words.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">**reposted from West to East Yahoogroup.</span><br />
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<br />RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-69179345048750936772010-06-30T21:22:00.002-07:002010-07-02T10:37:37.850-07:00Defending to be a Freemason<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>by RmOlano</em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>30Jun10</em></span><br />
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Taking a chance to join in beating up a very dead horse, this issue came up numbers of years ago in this forum. One of the wisdom imparted to the young man was a reminder that marriage is about partnership, about trusting and respecting other belief and opinion, making allowances to each other errors--- in short making the union work. If the other half is being force to "defend" something that the other half believe is important then, we could only speculate where this trend could stop. Defending why a 32" LED flat screen is better than 54" plasma or SUV rather than family van? There are things that a man could tell his wife, girl friend, or fiancée to just trust him and in the same token, there are things that she could say the same. If this fundamental ingredient is absent i.e. lack of trust then the young man has more important issue to resolve. Without doubt, that the Craft will still be around when he is truly ready to knock as all brothers and fellows have done who have gone that way before.</div>
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One lesson we can learn from Mosaic Pavement is the presence of opposite colors on a level plain. It could be interpreted as symbolized notion of the presence of opposite views or beliefs. They are out in the open and co-exist under the canopy of Heaven where all Masons work. The significance of tiles laid side-by-side, level, its placement, and usage during ritual work are well calculated to inculcate in the mind of novitiate that the ceremonies of Masonic Degrees are intended and hoped to make deep and lasting impression. It is unnecessary to recapitulate events that non-initiates would not understand. The point of this long-winded thought is the concept of agreeing to disagree. For those who are members of this group for sometime the subject is a very dead horse. I understand why some do not see it that way. Even a light from the same source when it passed through a prism of our choice would yield different shades of colors. If we substitute prism as experience then we can correlate “shades of colors” as opinions and/or beliefs. There is no right or wrong, just different view from different vantage point.</div>
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Not to belittle or offend the intelligence of uninitiated, even regularly made Masons could not come to agreement on how to define Freemasonry. Freemasonry can be defined in many different ways. It is like defining beauty--- it is in the eye of beholder. For some it is a good old boy network, some see it as social group, some it is a mystic circle and some perceived it as making good men a better man. As the definitions numbered as almost the same as its members world wide, how anyone can “defend” something he does not even experienced or even know yet? </div>
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If we subscribed with Brother Albert Pike definition of the Craft as “a system of morality, veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols,” one need to know the symbols first before grasping what it mean to him, to his brethren, and to the world around him. This study as our young Brother is now embarked is a life long endeavor. The journey is bisected with trials and tribulations over the rough and rugged road—it is not always easy. It will take time therefore; it is wise to allow the time and patience to run its course. The journey is not for anybody else, it is always for the traveler--- to build his own temple not made by hands eternal in Heaven. The answer to the inquiries at the door can only truly answered by responses coming from the candidate’s heart. Am I duly and truly prepared? Of what I am in search of? If the object is to be able to wear a ring with square and compass to impress those who can, then just buy the ring and be done with it. If someone need permission or to “defend” himself to join a group of good men trying to be a better man—then someone need to think again as to why he wanted to be one. <a href="http://sc228amd.blogspot.com/2008/01/not-4-everybody.html">Freemasonry is not for everybody</a>.</div>
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<br /></div>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-45348350698969392002010-05-25T10:39:00.002-07:002013-07-14T18:29:07.325-07:00To Widows and Orphans<div align="center">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Words will never describe,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">soft counsel to ears might not be enough.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Hand shake or hug might capture some warmth</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">but no one will never really feel your pain</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">until each of us went through the experience ourselves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Our Order reminds us of the hourglass</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">to watch the grains of sand passing through the portal of time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">no matter how many honors and accomplishments each of us achieved</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">our sand will keep on pouring until nothing is left behind.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The lecture in the second section taught us that the hourglass is not a symbol of time</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Further Light and Lessons of the Craft reminds us that unlike time</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Life is finite.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">So Mote It Be</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">To Widows and Orphans</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJlYF0zatUWSfzcYoYpR6cEqE3lye4w2b2HQpefTTBnFARaBuF_nUdEwP8umKVLPCf7W_mp-UEPmZigyOJXgQA1uuxjbIKdvZ5D1RL203OCaGdfieQVyhxjO-YLxUMp14ON9i48A/s1600/crspte.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJlYF0zatUWSfzcYoYpR6cEqE3lye4w2b2HQpefTTBnFARaBuF_nUdEwP8umKVLPCf7W_mp-UEPmZigyOJXgQA1uuxjbIKdvZ5D1RL203OCaGdfieQVyhxjO-YLxUMp14ON9i48A/s320/crspte.png" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: xx-small;">/rmo</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: xx-small;">28Jul07</span></div>
RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-37182378176685640432010-02-22T16:05:00.002-08:002010-07-30T18:14:06.627-07:00Greatness And Immortality<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYeVsMeuWhoHPub3GjoS-dMNyPeoLGBEvyc3wRc5KyeCSZjgPfFLyKOhBYyXlfkBkRa_g3Ga7pVo4n8XIPxZRNtWw-NpfmuyRVEJx_UsR5-zrN_FiwEkneL-mWse7MYdWumMA-Hg/s1600/crspte.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYeVsMeuWhoHPub3GjoS-dMNyPeoLGBEvyc3wRc5KyeCSZjgPfFLyKOhBYyXlfkBkRa_g3Ga7pVo4n8XIPxZRNtWw-NpfmuyRVEJx_UsR5-zrN_FiwEkneL-mWse7MYdWumMA-Hg/s320/crspte.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">by RmOlano</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">21Feb10</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Not expected to be called upon but being trained as a Boy Scout, Always Prepared.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWN212gvSthtPYPEZH5XhcdJIue1CnuKeqg6L8761633Z-tLcy28I9ZyEio5djU4J6DEtecmfECaxHkaA9dfxTm-UzTSCYmAzTtol7t-tbAN7PyyLSiJsi9_N-2lp2FYUxB0yJg/s1600/collegeparkMD2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWN212gvSthtPYPEZH5XhcdJIue1CnuKeqg6L8761633Z-tLcy28I9ZyEio5djU4J6DEtecmfECaxHkaA9dfxTm-UzTSCYmAzTtol7t-tbAN7PyyLSiJsi9_N-2lp2FYUxB0yJg/s400/collegeparkMD2010.jpg" width="400" /></a>Greatness and immortality are words that could be interchanged, as its core idea is almost the same. Numerous definitions from different sources would come down to splitting hair but what really count is what we ourselves characterize these words--what we understand and believe what greatness and immortality means. Micro and Macro are also words though almost spelled the same—difference of “I” and “a” but the meanings are past interpretation. Tactical or Strategic, small or large, no medium and no cheese—sounds like my recent lunch at mikeedee.—can I have number 1 to go?</div>
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Greatness and immortality can be seen through macro lens as building an empire and leaving monuments to trumpet that achievement like Ceasars of Rome. Then there are those who choose to see the notion thru micro lens and believed what was accomplished is just a common sense and in modern idiom “right thing to do.”<br />
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Growing up in Olongapo City, I was fortunate enough to be watched and taken under the wings of many great men of Lincoln Lodge No 34. In 1976 after acceptance to the Craft, it was my distinct privilege and pleasure to call one of those stalwarts of the community to be my brother. This is big time—macro-strategic sense. This issue put me into unique situation as the son of my newly found brother—my friend Leo is now my nephew and I am his uncle or dad? <br />
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We gather here tonight to honor and be a part of an event--- mostly likely a no big deal for the couple who spent their lifetime together for 65 years --- and counting. Knowing their humbleness and low keyed demeanor, this is a micro with small “i.”—no big deal. (no cheese, make it small coke — drive thru). However, this is macro “with capital A” for us privileged to witness, participate, and enjoy this occasion of greatness and immortality. Greatness as evidenced through your children now with their own thriving families. Immortality because your legacy will be etched in our memories forever.<br />
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In behalf of all used to be young boys and girls of youth groups sponsored by Lincoln Lodge, we thank you for you guidance, patience, and vision. I personally thank you for being a part of your 65th Wedding Anniversary.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*** The above article was written for 65th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Armando Lincangco, PM held at College Park, Wash DC. WB Mando was the Master of Lincoln Lodge No. 34 during the author's election and subsequent initiation to Freemasonry in summer of 1976.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">***</span></div>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-78449188790536098152009-10-04T06:44:00.007-07:002009-10-04T07:17:16.442-07:00Inactivity<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-kckLpxi6rS_k4m5Cwd6t23p_mictoER4wyBYYN9TqMMybjttTR2hyphenhyphenHS09lBPS_-q-d6fGvMoeOJji0USW95AL4YuD6zUCFdQC6IPWqxXE2Q6GVyNy2vwV-oGDbSxVeKOdgm4wQ/s1600-h/crspte.png"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 24px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 25px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388744397004723730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-kckLpxi6rS_k4m5Cwd6t23p_mictoER4wyBYYN9TqMMybjttTR2hyphenhyphenHS09lBPS_-q-d6fGvMoeOJji0USW95AL4YuD6zUCFdQC6IPWqxXE2Q6GVyNy2vwV-oGDbSxVeKOdgm4wQ/s200/crspte.png" /></a> <em><span style="font-size:78%;">RmOlano</span></em><br /><div><div><div align="justify"><em><span style="font-size:78%;">09Aug09</span></em></div><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>The problems with (our the) inactivity of our membership have more to do with what we do with our members after they are raised, not with how their degrees were conferred. --- PM</em></span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzQ9zufmG7991RLvhyphenhyphenbNKQu5lv0ZAjUXHk8PJerr0tI6pmJkQ8UVBYoIw23-8BcV0X6PiZPfrCIcx2QkiSWfp59IlZrGBo14SpHZm8vED_8osY7s8Op_x-6RjpHOfa3zW7pqA1w/s1600-h/operativeM1.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 219px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388746637924194178" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzQ9zufmG7991RLvhyphenhyphenbNKQu5lv0ZAjUXHk8PJerr0tI6pmJkQ8UVBYoIw23-8BcV0X6PiZPfrCIcx2QkiSWfp59IlZrGBo14SpHZm8vED_8osY7s8Op_x-6RjpHOfa3zW7pqA1w/s320/operativeM1.jpg" /></a>The statement gave me a pause, as at an impulse I would like to agree. Taking a Brother experience, there are Lodges who are sometimes little "aggressive" in filling up their empty officers line with "new blood" that sometimes backfired i.e. scared off the new guy once he found out the amount of work ahead. However, we can also agree that some "fresh meat" would accept the challenge. They would be honored for the consideration for an office, as that was a testament to confidence and hope. And indeed, there are some newly minted members whose conviction to the Fraternity is not yet fully developed would get "intimidated," may resent the pressure and disappear. There are those who see beyond the notion of good old boy system, knew what they are searching for therefore, disregarded the background noise and continue to seek the furtherance of his light. With or without office and title.<br /><br />Although we can say that, the Fraternity is not about baby-sitting new members i.e., finding something for them to do, as there are so many things for them to do, the statement from WB from VA rings so true. However, instead of saying "we" I am looking more to the side of those who brought them in the first place. The way the "recruitment" work, is that someone sponsor and along X number of Brothers recommend a "well qualified" candidate. The signatures on a petition paper are not just dried ink on a parchment to satisfy a legal requirement. Those signed names are testament that some trusted Brothers gave their word that the petitioner has the potential of being someone worthy of being accepted into the Fraternity and be called--- a Brother. The question now is what happened to these sponsors who are suppose to nurture and teach the ropes to these new guys? This really a rhetorical question as we all know in today's quest for more members, the signatures on petition papers often times are just for formality. Many times the candidate did not even know who the signers are. So we are back to the chicken and the egg scenario. Signers do not feel the "ownership" of the nurturing of the new guy who don't know whom he could turn to for "up close and personal" guidance relative to Masonic issues. Most of the time these duty and responsibility falls into the lap of Master of the Lodge as if he does not have anything else to do. Granted there is a lesson about the EA proximity to the East but just like any other lessons in our Craft, those are not to be taken literally.<br /><br />I agree in part with our WB in that there are more tasks to be done after each degree and I take the other view relative to how Masonic Degrees were conferred. Those with weak resolved could be weeded out or allowed not to continue after each degree. Only those willing to go through certain prescribed process should be permitted and partake the group journey like those "who have gone that way before." To reiterate my opinion in regards to one-day class; </div><br /><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">"There are those who opposed this idea for its unfairness to those who will miss the very essence of the initiatory process. There are many small and invisible but valuable nuances that make up an experience, sitting on the chair and watching someone stumble on might be funny at a time but that is not what the Degree work is about." </span><a href="http://rmolano.blogspot.com/2009/07/one-day-class.html"><span style="font-size:85%;">One Day Class</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;">.</span> </div><br /><div align="justify">Do not grade our Craft by action or inaction of individual Lodges or members, as they might not share Albert Pike vision of Freemasonry in 1888, "a system of morality veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols." A light from same source passing through a prism would result in multitude of colors. If our Craft is a prism, who can say that someone is incorrectly or seeing less colors compare from someone else. Is it possible to see same light, same result, and same intensity from different perspectives? Who can truly see the darkness of my soul? Many Brethren doesn't even think of the quest hence, I congratulate those who found their question and bade good tidings in their personal search for that was lost. It would be pleasure to correlate what discoveries you have made----maybe sometime in the future.</div><br /><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><br /><div align="center">...</div></div></div>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-18672373913774272842009-09-09T14:46:00.006-07:002009-09-12T17:53:01.225-07:00Masonic Titles – An Observation<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQiWWkn84C9QEZi38Ggu-mZ6m4d6cf4P889lzf_Ttscq9-CmGOmTqhaG01oL9OLcqeqaDFNJ13BnogTdQqQXlWThLf_hqQ4TnTo03NX8NnvNBviQSbbDmN5jRqWrE0YN4KoAKsA/s1600-h/crspte.png"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 24px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 25px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379590073927892610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQiWWkn84C9QEZi38Ggu-mZ6m4d6cf4P889lzf_Ttscq9-CmGOmTqhaG01oL9OLcqeqaDFNJ13BnogTdQqQXlWThLf_hqQ4TnTo03NX8NnvNBviQSbbDmN5jRqWrE0YN4KoAKsA/s200/crspte.png" /></a> <span style="font-size:78%;"><em>by RmOlano<br />09-09-09</em></span> <div><div><br /><div align="left"></div><div align="center"><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Honorificabilitudinitatibus -"the state of being able to achieve honours."</span><br /></div><br /><br /><div align="justify"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhStgJGq7mWBtU8lv7mxLZoUc_Y6-fKyI6hViBIFYMsxy8iInAIvIeUV1U8Zqq4iEmqlfxz4fRrjOaNxnN-AVtywb4WBxh6N1o6Vf-91Kpp3-HUEBDSG2-03WSr8jQSSoKrVBOsEw/s1600-h/Allisvanity.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 210px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379589732727590322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhStgJGq7mWBtU8lv7mxLZoUc_Y6-fKyI6hViBIFYMsxy8iInAIvIeUV1U8Zqq4iEmqlfxz4fRrjOaNxnN-AVtywb4WBxh6N1o6Vf-91Kpp3-HUEBDSG2-03WSr8jQSSoKrVBOsEw/s320/Allisvanity.jpg" /></a>In an organization that espouses a notion of equality among members in particular and humanity in general, it is worth mentioning of the widespread use of Masonic titles and its apparent acceptance. The titles come abound such as religious sounding designation--- Most Worshipful, Right Worshipful to self-styled label as Past Assistant Grand Secretary. On a personal level, there are the alphanumerical amalgamation after a name e.g. “32,”“33,” “PDDGM,” “Founding Mmbr,” etc., which sometimes attended by letters before ones name such as “SK,” “VW,” “WB,” and other similar symbology. The long list of letters before and after names sometimes compete with equally long list of Masonic affiliations which at times takes half the page of correspondence. While this practice is a personal choice therefore, could not be characterized as “right” or “wrong,” this writer sometimes wonder where is the real message. Is it in the body of the letter or imbedded somewhere between the alphabets and numbers accompanying the name? There a little doubt as to the object of the effort is to identify oneself to the audience thereby establishing credibility. Although someone can offer divergent rationale, an introduction to an audience is an accepted and civilized etiquette. In the same token, the manner by which one conducts his introduction also establish the rule on how the player intend to play or expected to be treated. When someone is placing heavy emphasis on the importance on titles and decorations thru symbols, this seemingly inconspicuous act could be interpreted as an alligorical attempt to illustrate ones transition from rough ashalar to a polished marble. The perceived state of smoothnes might be indicative of ones apparent understanding of arrival within the arena of Masonic honorificabilitudinitatibus where the number of degrees completed or offices held were deduced as the validation of fruitfull Masonic journey.<br /><br />The Fraternity is not immune to this concept. Organized entities such as military, religious or even academia carry out this human pleasure world wide. Like any culture, there are rules when, where, and how honorifics are to be practice. From military’s colorful ribbons to announce achievements to feminine laces decorating black robes of Supreme Court female justices, symbols are unspoken message of one-way communication. In armed services, ranks symbolized by uniform collar, shoulder or sleeve badges denotes hierarchy and corresponding demand to adherence with the protocol of military tradition. A salute is given to the rank and not necessarily to the person wearing the insignia. There are times when salute is given when not in uniform, this is because of the respect owed to the individual. In military, true respect is earned by trust and not by dressing up with metallic devises. In the absence of uniform, most civilian entities utilize titles instead. In United States, a judge of court of the law is introduce as “The Honorable John Doe” while the judge will simply introduce himself as “I am John Doe, judge of XX Court” not as “I am Honorable John Doe.” The same rule applies to our Fraternity, someone would introduce a past master as “Worshipful Brother John Doe” who would sign his name as “John Doe, PM” not as “WB John Doe, PM.” Masonic titles such as “Sir Knight John Doe” is a title to be used within the confines of Knights Templar Commandery when in session. Outside the asylum the “Sir Knight” title has the same effect as using “32 Degree” within a Blue Lodge--- it doesn’t carry measurable connotation. There are honorary titles conferred by Universities to invidual such as Doctor in Education, Philosophy, etc. Generally, only those who received the degree in traditional manner are entitled to use the title “Doctor” however, there are segment of receipents that believed otherwise.<br /><br />Honorifics are words or terms of respect used when referring a person. Its is given and awarded during the moment as recognition to deserving personage. A manifestation of respect, it is earned and at a times very challenging to own in perpetuity. Those who truly recognize the lessons of the Craft will receive the words with humility and with the same passion of wearing a plain lampskin apron rather than the model bedecked with fancy handwork. Indeed, astute student of the Craft understand that vanity loom to its conclusion when his “weary feet shall come to the end of its toilsome journey.”</div><br /><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><br /><div align="center">...</div></div></div>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-21882744316692869222009-08-01T05:31:00.010-07:002009-08-01T11:15:22.507-07:00Reality Check<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8E26KYKu8onF2IwLxSU9prJ6LP1VUt7sG00aqopzrE_5ONj9Gj5XniSAaBie0MWy2ybvEER_ocp-Pst0fh6iX5jBXes4BXMBO6JrbgdwfkCcIsSIqQixhIWLxihfprlUnh25xBA/s1600-h/crspte.png"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 24px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 25px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364980400987138146" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8E26KYKu8onF2IwLxSU9prJ6LP1VUt7sG00aqopzrE_5ONj9Gj5XniSAaBie0MWy2ybvEER_ocp-Pst0fh6iX5jBXes4BXMBO6JrbgdwfkCcIsSIqQixhIWLxihfprlUnh25xBA/s200/crspte.png" /></a> <span style="font-size:78%;"><em>by RmOlano</em></span><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><em>01Aug09</em></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>"brotherly love should always prevail. i love you. i may not agree with you. i love you . i may not be allowed to tolerate you by the same rules that made you what you profess to be." ---Brother from GLofG</em></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM_zbGJHtp2XatSH6_Co8ZBKRz5yNXP3gBzKCrks06DDfxiEfdlCLFHpIhkZFwc42GNYBboH2jNVaO_4LqOomK0slbwF29LKZqMlWQIu6giycQeg2vICcKhrUN-kuVBmiPbEqJ9A/s1600-h/51.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 187px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 288px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364979629154217794" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM_zbGJHtp2XatSH6_Co8ZBKRz5yNXP3gBzKCrks06DDfxiEfdlCLFHpIhkZFwc42GNYBboH2jNVaO_4LqOomK0slbwF29LKZqMlWQIu6giycQeg2vICcKhrUN-kuVBmiPbEqJ9A/s320/51.jpg" /></a>From the tone of the Brother’s response regarding admission to a Lodge, it seems the credence is that depending on jurisdiction, a visiting Brother can demand his entry to a Lodge he is not a member after presenting credentials and passing examination. I believe in agreeing to disagree hence, I disagree and would leave it at that. And if I may also be allowed to use the legal term, Nolo contendere --- so be it, that is his opinion.<br /><br />Before the creation of this great Nation, the Fraternity created a document which is known as <em><a href="http://rmolano.blogspot.com/2008/06/constitution-of-1723.html">Anderson’s Constitutions of 1723</a></em> - a legal document that becomes a model of the U.S. Constitution. Even this forum has rules thus, discussion of “legality” is within the “realm” of dialogue. As each jurisdiction is sovereign, each can declare black color as blue or yellow as orange. Same applies to the one-day class or one-year class, decision was made, voted upon, end of discussion, that is the nature of being sovereign, that is a fact and within Grand Lodge's rights. It is given, that some will object while the general membership agreed to pass decisions. If someone strongly opposed and cannot stomach the issue, no need to debate about spilled milk, just leave and find a place where one can be happy and content. No one is being forced to stay. It would be for the good/harmony of the Order and well-being of the dissenters to “encourage the practice Freemasonry and pass on opinion” to some place else where the same thinking is welcome and shared with. Otherwise, be part of the solution and help educate those who need and/or asking for help with implied superior Masonic knowledge.<br /><br />Being a member of this forum (Free-Masons) for sometime now, and participated in whole range of discussions, it should be stated that it would be disservice to underestimate the quality of information one can glean from this forum. Unless someone is recommending a “better” site but that would be distasteful and violate the protocol of civilized forum hosting, it would be preferable to remind ourselves the basic computer rule - garbage in, garbage out. If not happy with current status, do something to improve it. Raising awareness is a standard conference call solution to any issue---all it is is a cheap talk. For those who want to know or bring forth their academic and intellectual concerns regarding the creation of the book, Bro Chris Hodapp, PM has a website. Anyone with Internet savvy can find his “<em>Freemasonry for Dummies</em>.” Since Bro. Chris is also the editor in chief of the journal of The Masonic Society, I will not even think to speak for him as he is obviously more than capable of discussing the questions the Brother raised.<br /><br />Obfuscation is not the same as confusion. Loving and intolerance does not share the same plain. Using legal excuse “not to allow to tolerate” while professing “love” can be hypothesized in three ways. One, misunderstanding the meanings therefore, confused. Two, knows the meanings but trying to be politically correct therefore, obfuscating and three, have some idea as what the topic is about therefore, should consider reading <em>Freemasonry for Dummies.</em><br /><br /></div><div align="justify">Let us be “realistic” here and be “direct and to the point.” The “I love you” phrase is really misused and abused in the context of this discussion. The phrase is usually or traditionally reserved for those who are willing to go all the way to marriage; hence, we all know the way it is being used is really a hyperbole-- an exaggeration not to be taken seriously. Reality check probably would not make any difference to some contemporary man but would make traditional person squeamish using the phrase to same gender. The same way, “hero” is being applied nowadays. A person who is being paid to do his job is not. A fireman who went out to put out a fire is a fireman, a cop who rescued a kitten stuck up on a tree is a nice person, a soldier who was ordered to cover the retreat of this unit and was killed was a soldier Killed In Action (KIA) no more, no less, a passing-by individual who rescued a person in a burning car/house is a hero. In the interest of adult and honest discussion, let us spare these politically correct BS and deal each one on the level without pretense instead of playing “what you profess to be.”<br /></div><div align="center"><br /><br />... </div>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-53589200445649312952009-07-25T14:51:00.013-07:002009-08-02T08:55:09.609-07:00One Day Class<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH3dVDJ4twhUvx5TPFlzJ40oqbN27zczc4BM_OtNI-IFxfIUQ1V1B8Y65Y9HEvhA9O9ZbUonxORuETLWbde9rtn8tqdwcnIH-kDRHOCfUQoWQlcYPkJgEX5hiipnrert__6IFzVg/s1600-h/crspte.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362520594672596338" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 24px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 25px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH3dVDJ4twhUvx5TPFlzJ40oqbN27zczc4BM_OtNI-IFxfIUQ1V1B8Y65Y9HEvhA9O9ZbUonxORuETLWbde9rtn8tqdwcnIH-kDRHOCfUQoWQlcYPkJgEX5hiipnrert__6IFzVg/s200/crspte.png" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:78%;">byRmOlano</span><br /><div><span style="font-size:78%;">2Aug09</span><br /></div><br /><br /><div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj__yGcvmr3Sbg_oIP34oLJzOBmoZhyw0EOHmBhFiQmfC3Adsl1A7dvUzsnxaVBjMgRqxaBi9NgIFZ3jO1m1y-wDHwB7mTpJBI_qy08s4I6qVWh-js1b9rlTmOcEXuWTh73ZUdp2w/s1600-h/2deg.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362859901683251778" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 138px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj__yGcvmr3Sbg_oIP34oLJzOBmoZhyw0EOHmBhFiQmfC3Adsl1A7dvUzsnxaVBjMgRqxaBi9NgIFZ3jO1m1y-wDHwB7mTpJBI_qy08s4I6qVWh-js1b9rlTmOcEXuWTh73ZUdp2w/s320/2deg.gif" border="0" /></a>There are sections within the Fraternity which tend to “look down” upon those who did not take the “traditional” course of instructions. This group of hard core Brothers played by the rules and to see that the same rules get “optimized” for the benefit of some reasons they don’t agree is always comes down to a very predictable reaction. If we are to view Freemasonry as an entity that provide ladder for societal advancement, then the manner by which a brother achieve his laurel of victory i.e. Master Mason Degree is a consideration may be worth looking into. There are those who in spite of lack of memorization skills forged ahead to get through proficiency examination in front of the entire Lodge therefore, gets annoyed to those who skipped the process. Justice is a tenet of Freemasonry---meeting on the level, acting by the plumb and parting upon the square. Those words are more than learning by rote.<br /><br />Having said that, in my view, it is un-Masonic conduct to treat any Brothers “less” than those who did went through the “old fashioned way.” Obviously, there were not many options offered to the candidates as the some jurisdictions made the decision for them. I have witnessed candidates who preferred to go through “long form” rather than the easier “short form” proficiency examinations. One doesn’t have to be surprised why it’s easier for them to get “approval” and recognition from the old-timers.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50rEeFqBV6CafHwYfwVnYm0oxY_EIxcgUSHFqOkb7WMOAm7zWy2W_CHpEOX3kaJar7dfucoIx62I2urNQJ1oEu-eKvZBAdz5dCu8uypWDbUcoRpb9-fJAW0lPj2sFrvanbP3x9g/s1600-h/lectr.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362859226749605682" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 149px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50rEeFqBV6CafHwYfwVnYm0oxY_EIxcgUSHFqOkb7WMOAm7zWy2W_CHpEOX3kaJar7dfucoIx62I2urNQJ1oEu-eKvZBAdz5dCu8uypWDbUcoRpb9-fJAW0lPj2sFrvanbP3x9g/s200/lectr.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div align="justify">Aside from obvious abbreviated time, the "law of unintended consequenses" of the one-day class of conferring degrees is an issue for the hard liners. The perceived deficiency in "real world of masonic knowledge" of one-day class graduates is a bone of contention to those heavily tilted to "traditional" way. If we view Freemasonry as a mere good old buddy system, i.e. Fraternity then it could be assume that the "real world of masonic knowledge" is about passwords and tokens, lecture, and dramas. One doesn't need to sound mystical about such mundane exercise as one can visit a local book store or watch video peddled by "born again" ex-Masons. There are not many Lodges that would subject a visiting Brother with full blown 3rd Degree proficiency examinations. In the "real" world that could be characterized as "cruel and unusual punishment." There are Grand Lodges that require successfully completion of MM proficiency to be able to serve as appointed or elected officer of the Lodge. The unstated idea is to make sure those going through the line has the determination and mental capability to tackle what lies ahead e.g. memorization of duties, Charge, fellow craft lecture, etc. Anyone, who were able to commit to memory all three degrees proficiency examination in "long form" (did I say Obligations?) could be expected to tackle the staircase lecture as a starter.</div><br /><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">On the other hand, if we perceived Freemasonry as “a system of morality, veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols,” what moral lessons in one-day class can we identify as deficient from the preferred method? If we already taken the interest of some good men, would a one day class would make them less than from what they were? Men stayed with the Fraternity not because of the short or long class but because they found something that held and sustained their interest. Whether the curiosities are about philosophical, mystical, camaraderie, and even religious, these are also examples of why men joined the Craft. Sustaining interest on a deeply held notion is what makes an individual do what others do not even care about.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQikl9jqxJQE1xWXygpM-k0yKPV8i9D800jvmIfGI1BLiVTHgUJAGHPfgXX9RLrt5KG53lh6wfJgKC98gD0YDp1r1zcmW94pZ6IFZKqcsLFlv95CzhGHj2fp40W5mNaIiMDz65fQ/s1600-h/lctrchrt2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362858952494146082" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 142px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQikl9jqxJQE1xWXygpM-k0yKPV8i9D800jvmIfGI1BLiVTHgUJAGHPfgXX9RLrt5KG53lh6wfJgKC98gD0YDp1r1zcmW94pZ6IFZKqcsLFlv95CzhGHj2fp40W5mNaIiMDz65fQ/s200/lctrchrt2.jpg" border="0" /></a>Furthermore, let us not assume that those who went through the "traditional way" are smarter and better prepared than those who went through one-day class. It is unwise to make too quick generalization. In his speech at CT, the author of <em>Freemasonry for Dummies</em>, Brother Chris Hodapp mentioned that he went through one-day class therefore, I am confident that he can intelligently discuss anything about the Craft with anybody. Let us not turn our blind eye to some of those whose slept through the conferrals and woke up just in time to receive the platitude of "32nd Degree" or "Super Most Excellent Master." Manly Hall once said that a Mason who is seeking the Truth may find high things in low places and low things at high places. Key word as a counsel to ear my dear Brother, is not to lose the sight of the lesson of Tolerance. As any awake "Prince of the Royal Secret" or 32nd Degree Mason would remember that there is a value in finding balance in our life.</div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify">One of various rationale of one-day class is to make “easier” for the contemporary man to “join” the Craft. Time as always gets to be blamed for the majority of illness in this world. The process to become a Master Mason is “too long” for some hence, comes an abbreviated version as if the idea was taken from the “higher bodies” e.g. Scottish Rite or York Rite class concept. Same pretext, it takes too long to become Knight Templar or get 32nd Degree so instead of experience, the candidates get to watch the process from the comfort of his chair or bench. So much for the initiatory experience, the feeling of getting lost, uncertainty, rush of adrenalin, the acceptance of something beyond ones control, the initial thought of “Aha” and the possible glimpse of a dark side of the unknown. These concept are lost during our pursuit to draw “more” members. Somehow the quest becomes an exercise of numbers and statistics as if the Craft is about profit, operating expenses, overhead, etc. In the never ending discussion of quality versus quantity, the one-day class is heavily tilted to quantity cabal of Fraternity. </div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify">There are those who opposed this idea for its unfairness to those who will miss the very essence of the initiatory process. There are many small and invisible but valuable nuances that make up an experience, sitting on the chair and watching someone stumble on might be funny at a time but that is not what the Degree work is about. It is more than amateur stage plays and although the modern Freemasonry initiatory practice is a mere shadow of the real process---every Masonic Degree work is a favor not a required statistic for someone advancement.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">“Each degree work should be considered as a favor to be given and not as a requirement to fulfill. We should and must hands out favors sparingly, to give it to those we hope that will return the same favor to somebody else when we old-timers were gone and soon to be forgotten.”<br /></span><br />It is truly a gift.<br /><br /><a href="http://rmolano.blogspot.com/2007/09/degree-works-favor.html"><strong>Degree Works- A Favor</strong></a><strong>.</strong><br /><br /></div><div align="center">...</div>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-48835344198780397872009-07-18T02:55:00.008-07:002009-07-18T04:47:09.008-07:00Knocking<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBnx8a03heE0rvUpsFx2QUMdqLUZ9W9jbJ-2dKEjJBo6sPnh40tg4EQVPrtI9vP0ismheUf3knDRePKZOK5GcSfN-AXd0Vd62fK5YC6nubLOcqzQAPWaQ9Q6L_8Yehevnl6RpQ-Q/s1600-h/crspte.png"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 24px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 25px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359743550835396562" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBnx8a03heE0rvUpsFx2QUMdqLUZ9W9jbJ-2dKEjJBo6sPnh40tg4EQVPrtI9vP0ismheUf3knDRePKZOK5GcSfN-AXd0Vd62fK5YC6nubLOcqzQAPWaQ9Q6L_8Yehevnl6RpQ-Q/s200/crspte.png" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">By Rudy Olano </span><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">15July06</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">“The idea that an organization would recognize everyone and every faith as equal and as a brother or that while they are praying the one next to them is sending praise to another God or differently perceived God is simply blasphemy.” </span><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi8qkCNCbSoU6cjQGHf2lsXygind4prQ8wvScKDHZU6bGNLgIw5AEAV3QcPRAIJP-t2OX8ilLEnNDiY0VXslAg4NDamiI2bwi_ymMjCkZ0D4-CLROKjzhx3neOLvbD4Q1Ol824Ow/s1600-h/SCsml.gif"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 107px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 123px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359741803650440562" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi8qkCNCbSoU6cjQGHf2lsXygind4prQ8wvScKDHZU6bGNLgIw5AEAV3QcPRAIJP-t2OX8ilLEnNDiY0VXslAg4NDamiI2bwi_ymMjCkZ0D4-CLROKjzhx3neOLvbD4Q1Ol824Ow/s320/SCsml.gif" /></a>Your inquiry whether the preceding statement is correct in regards to complaints against the Fraternity can be viewed as partially correct. Our Craft is composed of multitude of men who joined for multitude of reasons. Brethren stayed, left and come back for motivation as diverse as the number of membership throughout the world. If you allow me to hazard an opinion, the statement was not the first time it was used to rationalize for dropping off from active participation and a bullet to discredit our Order.<br /><br /></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:85%;">“The idea that an organization would recognize everyone and every faith as equal and as a brother or that while they are praying the one next to them is sending praise to another God or differently perceived God is simply (blasphemy) a Tenet Freemasonry.”<span style="font-size:85%;"></span><br /><br /></div></span><div align="justify"><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:85%;">“The idea that an organization would recognize everyone and every faith as equal and as a brother or that while they are praying the one next to them is sending praise to another God or differently perceived God is simply (blasphemy) a religious tolerance.”<br /></span></div></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><div align="justify"><br /></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:100%;">Changing the last word with “a Tenet of Freemasonry” to be an accurate statement, will not change or entice those who left and those who cling to their dogmatic belief. Moreover, replacing the last word with “a religious tolerance” will still not make a difference with those who left and those with deep-seated passion of what other people should believe. Fundamentalists exist in every faith including Christians. This is a reason why some well established organized religious entities have some rather perplexing issues against Freemasonry.<br /><br /></div></span><div align="justify">If you allow me to remove the word “all” in the last paragraph of your original posting, I would agree in that nicely composed thought. Your description of what the Fraternity means to you is a very good vision especially coming from one who is not yet a member. Hold on that thought for it will serve you right whether you are a Mason or not. What you described is a notion that every human being in this planet ought to consider---- a nebulous dream in our time but then again we mortals can only dream of such things.<br /><br />Don’t be annoyed if no one rushes to your doorstep or shoot a priority email to your basket. Remember that it is you who is asking a favor and not the other way around. Although through your writing, you seem to be in a right frame of mind to be considered for investigation. You will be contacted in due time. I will leave you with words that are familiar to all the Brethren of the Craft and who knows, that you might hear it again someday, “ …wait the time with patience…” </div><br /><br /><div align="center">...</div>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-60963754769493506312009-07-05T07:30:00.008-07:002009-07-05T09:11:22.891-07:00On Joining<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQLJwq_yX7W2Yb0HOhlbj2LRwurkEh7NlnUtNemzl3I0-PlbfnsvzfQHm18zxFu6Uzc6B5KQvj8j0yDOw7BYCs2s8J86YspUwQ_AQQ6dRniCTVJfStCBFefZTFyW6cV2Q9b1T5A/s1600-h/crspte.png"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 24px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 25px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5354991224960986050" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQLJwq_yX7W2Yb0HOhlbj2LRwurkEh7NlnUtNemzl3I0-PlbfnsvzfQHm18zxFu6Uzc6B5KQvj8j0yDOw7BYCs2s8J86YspUwQ_AQQ6dRniCTVJfStCBFefZTFyW6cV2Q9b1T5A/s200/crspte.png" /></a> <span style="font-size:78%;">by RmOlano</span><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:78%;">5Jul09</span></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:78%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHF_ik2V7doiHJYi3-p1G0RoPri20ZSiUh6oYo7BLerQYxQPKo01-x5svbQm0GFavBCTG29ctgB_U142dAfr9Zo3GVgkysRpaAzeldGe15EoEp4GZEcyeOktItnn4_oUfhfTiqQQ/s1600-h/mason51J.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 156px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5354992269986979810" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHF_ik2V7doiHJYi3-p1G0RoPri20ZSiUh6oYo7BLerQYxQPKo01-x5svbQm0GFavBCTG29ctgB_U142dAfr9Zo3GVgkysRpaAzeldGe15EoEp4GZEcyeOktItnn4_oUfhfTiqQQ/s200/mason51J.jpg" /></a>It is true that variations exist between jurisdictions and Brother Fred captured the most common American way or mechanics of petitioning to receive degrees in mainstream Freemasonry. Let us not get wrapped around the axle in discussing who and what non-”mainstream” Freemasonry are nor the asking as recruiting as these are separate topics by itself. The subject is about joining the Fraternity because of "wanting to emulate a great man."<br /><br />Great number of past and present Brethren petitioned to receive degrees of the Craft for the same great number of reasons e.g. self-improvement, philosophical, family tradition, mysticism, networking, and yes, even "mercenary motives." The people who made up of the Craft are as diverse as the reasons of petitioning therefore, if one would look closely one would find chinks in Masonic armor. Many true and worthy Brothers are/were attracted for the same reason as stated by the inquirer. It is not surprising as in most likelihood, these true and worthy Brother Masons are the stamina of the raison d'être why the Fraternity exists for sometime. These are the individuals who comprehend that Freemasonry is not about carrying dues card in their wallet, possessing signet ring nor bumper stickers with square and compass. These are the Brethren who by the abiding the Tenets of Freemasonry made significant impact to younger generation thereby planting the seed of future true and worthy Brother of the Craft. To them past and present, we owe them respect and gratitude.<br /><br />In American system of membership protocol, the inquirer already had a jump start as he was asked if he wanted to be a Mason. This is a significant revelation that will certainly be wrestled by investigating committee. Nevertheless, for over a decade of contemplating what it takes to "join," the inquirer was probably surprised that all it take to get started is to simply --- ask.<br /><br />One doesn’t have to be a Mason to be a good man. Many religious entities will attest to this statement therefore, being a Mason to give respect to someone is NOT a valid reason to be a true and worthy Brother of the Craft. Ideally, one knocks on the door of Freemasonry because of his own free will and accord not because of any other reason(s) however noble or appreciative sounding motivation it might be. There are pledges to be made, actions to be scrutinized, obligations to be met --- Freemasonry is not just a Fraternity. To be a true and worthy Mason is not supposed to be measured in how many degrees completed, decorations embroidered on apron or jewels hanging on the neck. Being a Mason doesn’t necessarily meant good person. It simply meant a mortal being traveling through rough and rugged road of life toward the Ark anchored within the sheltered harbor there to finally unload the baggage of imperfection known as human flaws. Freemasons do not own nor monopolize the road to illumination.<br /><br />Albert Pike wrote in 1888, that Freemasonry “is a system of morality veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols.” If I may be allowed to paraphrase a well respected and wise Mason who once wrote that “one join a Lodge not Freemasonry.” The Past Master of Benjamin B. French Lodge No. 15 in Washington DC, Brother Ken Giballa was pointing out that Freemasonry is more than a group of individuals with same interest--- it is an ideal that “makes good men a better man.” There are pre-qualifications to be fulfilled and one doesn’t become true and worthy Brother of the Craft on the account of joining the group. One doesn’t have to be a Mason to be a good man but it requires good man to be a true and worthy Mason.<br /><br />To Bill L, if you want to honor your grandfather, continue to be a good man and petition to join a Lodge only because you wanted to not because of your grandfather. The Craft and your role model will indeed understand what you meant to say or do. Ask yourself what are you really looking for --- what are you in search of that you think you'll find within the circumference of a notion known as Freemasonry? What came you here to do? Only one person can truly answer that question and he won't be your role model.<br /></div><div><br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center">...</div>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-51621537690404364382009-07-04T04:21:00.006-07:002009-07-04T04:58:00.568-07:00Why Not<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_TYkdlNN5bPvriyixHNTEeq5xeSrQUrgxluNblRgf1oKMeruq84u3zuUga4X7PsYaR5_eThhQOHwOLxuEc2K9WdN12XANcNIDwx_D9jgmcKdp4m2tBxdBHDfAo_lptY6jteGgsQ/s1600-h/crspte.png"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 24px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 25px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5354572315740819618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_TYkdlNN5bPvriyixHNTEeq5xeSrQUrgxluNblRgf1oKMeruq84u3zuUga4X7PsYaR5_eThhQOHwOLxuEc2K9WdN12XANcNIDwx_D9jgmcKdp4m2tBxdBHDfAo_lptY6jteGgsQ/s200/crspte.png" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">by RmOlano</span><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">23April2007</span><br /><br /><br /><div> </div><div align="justify">In 1908's book <em>Lexicon of Freemasonry</em> by Brother Albert Mackey, part of his definition of demit is the phrase "once a Mason and always a Mason" because unless expelled by his Lodge and the sentence was confirmed by the Grand Lodge, any Mason is still subjected to "his masonic obligations" nor be excused to "moral conduct" expected to a member of the Order. Brother Mackey also wrote that expulsion is the equivalent of Masonic death penalty and only with those guilty of gross immoral conduct by a properly conducted trial will be receive this sentence. The concept is to have individual Lodges hands out the expulsion after a fair trial of an alleged grossly immoral conduct and only be carried out with concurrence of the Grand Lodge. The recent Grand Lodge of the Philippines' expulsion was the other way around. The Grand Lodge declaration of expulsion without trial was not because of grossly immoral conduct but due to individual Mason’s choice to go along with their Lodge’s decision to form their own Grand Lodge.</div><div><br /></div><div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7kvtQLGV25B5bqn9F-axZvvN2cSkeAfUrXGwasio5-XBhbZYlL_3Dzf2WfR8N7ddqmEDfoNGkFODgcCZVCDG5L92X_rw_bhlHQ2rFGxDqXPnAgepjc9DQ7sT4LsOqq4a4AlVDA/s1600-h/eararade1900a.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 182px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5354570147510367554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7kvtQLGV25B5bqn9F-axZvvN2cSkeAfUrXGwasio5-XBhbZYlL_3Dzf2WfR8N7ddqmEDfoNGkFODgcCZVCDG5L92X_rw_bhlHQ2rFGxDqXPnAgepjc9DQ7sT4LsOqq4a4AlVDA/s320/eararade1900a.jpg" /></a>Which brings us back to the topic of discussion. Why only one Grand Lodge can exist in the Phil. Why not? Removing the prejudicial thinking of the motive, be it may imagine or reality, Freemasonry spread around the world not because a Grand Lodge “authorized” the creation of another Grand Lodge but because three or more Lodges banded together and formed their own. Neither Modern nor Ancient Grand Lodges of England authorizes the creation of Grand Lodge of New York or Pennsylvania or California to form Nevada. Individual Lodges warranted by either Grand Lodge of England formed their own Grand Lodge due to their own reasons. Even Spain at one time had two Grand Lodges until both sides settled their differences and merged into one. Needless to say the result of union of Ancients and Modern to become United Grand Lodge of England. If we look back to the history of Grand Lodge of Japan, GLP’s reaction was not something we could be proud of. Now how about if the three Lodges in Guam decided to form the Grand Lodge of Micronesia or Guam, would GLP declare our Brethren from Guam clandestine too? Or should GLP be a proud parent of a new born GL and instead of putting roadblocks, GLP could be an example of how a good and caring parent would act watching his offspring takes it's baby step toward maturity? </div><div><br /> </div><div align="justify">The GLP Constitution is supposed to have a provision for regional Grand Lodges. The idea was created for more efficient governance of the Fraternity. It does not take a rocket scientist to figure out the logistical problem involve in running the administrative matters in the whole archipelago. The VW Manuel Carranza noted the perennial attendance problem which plagued during ANCOM. Transportation and accommodations for many delegates plays a major role on not only quantity but also quality of representatives which determine the end product of this important event.</div><div><br /> </div><div>So why not?</div><div> </div><div> </div><div align="center">... </div>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-71123702786963509562009-04-11T08:26:00.009-07:002009-04-11T09:01:42.337-07:00HELL of a STORY<p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal" align="justify"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;"><em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QMXGIWL0Xr6rf2dSiJ1fLRg1nlutv36soMnlbxYfa5qfxHpYLH0i8vFPLcoPGgj1ZT9_SkXoXFkUHyllOlJfulE2CBy6h3MaQt-JIgK9TNkEmobskaRNdTDZraQDbIYq4kdEPw/s1600-h/TIM.gif"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 36px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 43px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323457375608454434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QMXGIWL0Xr6rf2dSiJ1fLRg1nlutv36soMnlbxYfa5qfxHpYLH0i8vFPLcoPGgj1ZT9_SkXoXFkUHyllOlJfulE2CBy6h3MaQt-JIgK9TNkEmobskaRNdTDZraQDbIYq4kdEPw/s200/TIM.gif" /></a>Rudy Olano, IM</em></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal" align="justify"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;"><em>Visalia Council # 43, (CM)</em><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><br /><em>27Jan05<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></em></span></span></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal" align="justify"><span style="font-family:georgia;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh982KXy93j-U49zEI_JnmOCXY6GQEkSCnfNioGDm3z6VY6HCMsPOct1ngXgqs-iiEkygzPsS8KY8WxyUp8rzMzNuNMUZF5Q4RVPrGJs1xboOKMODBJEbN05IbSMaXVHBw_YWbn6w/s1600-h/Hel_(1889)_by_Johannes_Gehrts.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 209px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323460550701965586" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh982KXy93j-U49zEI_JnmOCXY6GQEkSCnfNioGDm3z6VY6HCMsPOct1ngXgqs-iiEkygzPsS8KY8WxyUp8rzMzNuNMUZF5Q4RVPrGJs1xboOKMODBJEbN05IbSMaXVHBw_YWbn6w/s320/Hel_(1889)_by_Johannes_Gehrts.jpg" /></a>What if the word "hell" came from an old English word <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1:city><st1:place>halle</st1:place></st1:city> or hele which was supposed to mean, a hole in the ground. Meaning that when a person die, the body goes to hele/hole in the ground and that's the end of that. No more, kaput, done, it’s over. The last thing a dying person will see is a dark empty space once the body ceased to live. Those worthy enough to will able to see further light and will continue to live and received his/her blessing.<br /><br />What if the hell as we "knew it" or been taught as the place for torture and endless suffering, pain and misery is a relatively modern invention. I will venture to say that hell is a product of a very inventive and twisted mind. The very idea of eternal pain to be administered by a Loving God doesn't make any sense. How can a Deity could exists while multitude of His creation is being tortured endlessly for failing to be god-like, for being a human saddled with its inherent weakness. It is not a secret that in order to be worthy of an access to the Eternal Life is living in a way that approximates to be a godly, to be able to act and think as almost god Himself. That's a very tall order and for the majority of us, it will take a lifetime of struggle to be even close to what expected of us. Christian fundamentalist will object in that statement since they believe that they don't have to do ANYTHING except to "believe in Him." That's another topic of itself and I will not argue with that in this column. All I'll say for now is that being proactive has its merit.<br /><br />There was a time in human history when people needs to be frighten to do what the leaders wanted them to do. A state/church can hardly sponsor a system when a prospect of dying will end their subject suffering. People commit suicide for "being tired and wanted to end their personal suffering." What a better way to control their subjects is by inculcating to their minds that endless misery awaits them even after death. Or the other way around, what a better way to ask their followers to die for the cause since there is a reward after death. Ask the "insurgents" in Falluja and they'll tell you about nine virgins waiting for the martyrs in their version of heaven.<br /><br />To wrap this commentary up, nobody came back from death as an eyewitness and described the existence of Heaven, as well as Hell. People will believe what they want to believe. It is my hope that people should not readily accept what is/was being feed to them. To paraphrase the Worshipful Master Bryan Cochran, Master of the Hanford Lodge No. 279 that "tradition does not automatically mean it's the right answer to the right question." There is always the other side of the coin. I tend to believe that there is life after death to account for deeds done on this life. White balls elect, cube balls reject. Be careful how you live. Hell could means--- lights out. Good Night.<o:p></o:p></span></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center">...</div><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN" lang="EN"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;"></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN" lang="EN"></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal" align="left"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN" lang="EN"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:85%;">"Hel" (1889) by Johannes Gehrts. Hel, the female being, holding a staff, and flanked by what is presumably the hound Garmr - both atop a cliff's ledge. In the background, a serpent crawls around among roots, a basin sits, and partially shadowed figures appear to be in movement below the cliff. <span style="FONT-WEIGHT: normal; mso-ansi-language: ENfont-size:11;" lang="EN" ><span style="font-size:85%;">From <em>Wikipedia</em>, the free encyclopedia.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p></span></span><h3 style="MARGIN: auto 0in"><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: normal; mso-ansi-language: ENfont-size:11;" lang="EN" ><o:p></o:p></span></h3><div align="center"></div><div align="left"><br /><br /></div><p align="justify"><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></p>RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33625556.post-80132715296507591492009-03-22T10:39:00.016-07:002015-06-27T08:43:18.155-07:00Division Among Brethren<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgevNlaBZsdqFhI5V5rzyjrK_n_DkgWpTLaVs40VoQFeV92ObsDaWJg8cgQptd4d83xsdZso-3Mmg9AYppvlf8LJtla0d1eK2xQHTborUQTI_L_Dn43zjOyssNFdaHV8AmvaXcYmA/s1600-h/crspte.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316080366839795666" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgevNlaBZsdqFhI5V5rzyjrK_n_DkgWpTLaVs40VoQFeV92ObsDaWJg8cgQptd4d83xsdZso-3Mmg9AYppvlf8LJtla0d1eK2xQHTborUQTI_L_Dn43zjOyssNFdaHV8AmvaXcYmA/s200/crspte.png" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 25px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 24px;" /></a> <span style="font-size: 78%;"><em>by RmOlano</em></span><br />
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Before we indulged ourselves with ever familiar self-flagellation, let us consider that division among Brethren especially in Grand Lodge level political arena is not confined to the Philippines and undoubtedly not a Filipino invention. What can be noted is that the political environment of certain Grand Lodge is a reflection of the existing governmental apparatus where political connection is the name of the game. An environment that espouses manipulation by few elite to advance the welfare of anointed padrinos and squashing those who dared to raise their voices or cry for justice is a preordained eventuality. This scenario is not a new issue. As my grandmother used to say, “lumang tugtugin na iyan” i.e. it’s an old song.<br />
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I concurred with the idea of multiple Grand Lodges co-existing and truly practicing the tenets of our Craft. If multiple Lodges can exists in one building, why it is so hard to practice tolerance at “higher” Grand Lodge level? Fear of losing power, prestige, and for some, access to annual dues is a worldwide issue not just to certain locality.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6QzjmQZZRtZdaACKA-gXSbYez2j8YstVYr6RGBiNghYRQAiH_VvXbkXZP_k_2NZGOpObh6wo3pqIAaVmhG_pkQQkOfc3FoUXqg9aEbghBwuVgtUTI7lXbLmrjYBESFsFFgPzWVQ/s1600-h/180px-800px-Katipuneros.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316075238575785922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6QzjmQZZRtZdaACKA-gXSbYez2j8YstVYr6RGBiNghYRQAiH_VvXbkXZP_k_2NZGOpObh6wo3pqIAaVmhG_pkQQkOfc3FoUXqg9aEbghBwuVgtUTI7lXbLmrjYBESFsFFgPzWVQ/s320/180px-800px-Katipuneros.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 162px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 218px;" /></a>“Why only one Grand Lodge can exist in the Philippines? Why not? Removing the prejudicial thinking of the motive, be it may imagine or reality, Freemasonry spread around the world not because a Grand Lodge “authorized” the creation of another Grand Lodge but because three or more Lodges banded together and formed their own. Neither Modern nor Ancient Grand Lodges of England authorizes the creation of Grand Lodge of New York or Pennsylvania or California to form Nevada.” <a href="http://rmolano.blogspot.com/2009/07/why-not.html">Why Not.</a><br />
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For Brethren who are interested in history of Philippine Masonry, it is fitting to suggest and give consideration to the point of view of the Brethren who don’t believe in Andrew Jackson’s “To the victors belong the spoils” in regards to Masonic history of the Philippines. <a href="http://magdalo_lodge_79.webs.com/supremoconsejosupremecou.htm">History of Supremo Consejo del Grado 33 Para Filipinas</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-261FMpjyAbys0M6XTIk88ykpxFPf-q9BlrsSnlhEkW6uYKIElGzWqxs8_yPTLYg4hMldJwFqh3IEbkupqKbYantS7LQWMjB-3kYImX7KuEzKJMMAhu564_rhK4byzCAHNMmQrw/s1600-h/180px-800px-Katipuneros.jpg"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyYaULoFYAiG_a6Lgcw6GjigE6fxyfxztRGJJU9JpuAUMFHs-RjvK6xQORZtfroJtIYNh2UhU4vRRY1-jKjMYsAy67pNOnpFPNZGV3pxZA4ddJXTeWBgGysYNH-4rMKOyHnmyD4w/s1600-h/aguinal.jpg"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhudIZ5QoxSwn-NktcdDgwLXwio4cnGy7GzvsR7Mm6An_qJIIu02M-s-HlGJKXYz9md_Y4Iv9mH6i5eQOz6dCdX9VVCaPYRu21Z8_1vOMQ3A-9nXLofQaniYiTooBD10OpQQK2bcg/s1600-h/pows.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316076335666061426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhudIZ5QoxSwn-NktcdDgwLXwio4cnGy7GzvsR7Mm6An_qJIIu02M-s-HlGJKXYz9md_Y4Iv9mH6i5eQOz6dCdX9VVCaPYRu21Z8_1vOMQ3A-9nXLofQaniYiTooBD10OpQQK2bcg/s320/pows.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 138px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 218px;" /></a>Serious student of history will discern that an American-sponsored Grand Lodge in the Philippines has many advantages in the aftermath of pacification campaign during "Philippine Insurrection." Not only that the American Grand Master could keep tab on subordinate Lodges but can expect members loyalty to American influenced/brand of Freemasonry. One doesn’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out the threat (imagined or real) of groups of former "insurrectionists" which includes "rebel" General Emilio Aguinaldo meeting regularly in secured venues. General Douglas MacArthur was quoted that Freemasonry is a useful tool to pacify Japan by adopting Freemasonry for Japanese men. One should not have to guess who was "patron" General/Viceroy/saint of Grand Lodge of Japan.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkN43jZhm8Meq5JYgHBeYa4aBvQAgJDVKzetRqj30z7MSpU81S5stOlIgn2NFZUG_u_KGqBCxWrgnoOIbR74jlyEEWlAWQzM2lRn5IK7fhPiDsHs-8o13JKarPU-LX9ZSczRgRbw/s1600-h/2deg.gif"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316079663530170866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkN43jZhm8Meq5JYgHBeYa4aBvQAgJDVKzetRqj30z7MSpU81S5stOlIgn2NFZUG_u_KGqBCxWrgnoOIbR74jlyEEWlAWQzM2lRn5IK7fhPiDsHs-8o13JKarPU-LX9ZSczRgRbw/s320/2deg.gif" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 138px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px;" /></a>Geo-political issues aside, it is a fact that in large cities, multiple Lodges does exist and meet in the same building. It is a fact that if there is truly harmony within, multiple Masonic Lodges are not needed nor justified. Lodges that meets members expectations will flourish and Lodges that don’t will and indeed slowly fade away. This scenario is also applicable to Grand Lodges. Those with substance will endure hardship and tribulation regardless of how rough and rugged road the travel offers while buildings not made from "good, true, and square work" will not last for so long. “Time, patience, and perseverance will accomplish all things.”<br />
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There are those who define Freemasonry as a Fraternity of select few hence, embrace the concept of them or us while there are those who view the Craft as a moral system reserved only for male gender. And there are some who are trying to reach into the darkness of their own soul to seek a glimmer of hope that the Order is path toward illumination to immortality. The Brethren will define and see Freemasonry through the filters of each own choosing therefore, division among men and Brothers are expected among mortals. One could hope that there is enough sand in the hourglass to realize the fallacy of vanity and embrace the joy of tolerance among creatures --- big or small. </div>
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RmOlanohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15433548991202691895noreply@blogger.com1