Tonight, I would like to talk about a subject that sounds simple on the surface, but I think it’s one of the most important aspects in Masonry. And that’s kindness.

Now, were not talking about good manners, “please” and “thank you,” or holding a door open for stranger. Those are certainly good things. But as Masons, we’re called to something deeper It’s taking the lessons we learned in the degrees and living them out every day.

Because, It’s hard to practice Brotherly Love, impossible to provide Relief, and hard to speak the Truth with genuine concern. without kindness,

Sometimes a brother doesn’t need advice, or a lecture. He doesn’t need somebody to solve his problems. Sometimes he just needs a friend to notice. Maybe that’s a phone call. Maybe it’s asking, “How are you doing?” and deeply listening.

That’s what the Twenty-Four Inch Gauge looks like in everyday life. Part of our time devoted to the service of a distressed, worthy brother.

Real acts of kindness don’t cost money. They cost time. And often, a few minutes of our time can mean more to someone than we’ll ever know.

Masonry reminds us that every one of walked through the West Gate as a Rough Ashlar. Every one of us had questions. All of us made mistakes. But somebody was patient with us. Somebody took the time to explain things. Somebody encouraged us. We should spread that same kindness to our brothers who come after us.

In the Closing Charge of the Master’s Degree, it mentions a promise:

“Remember that around this altar you have promised to befriend and relieve every brother who shall need your assistance. Remember that you have promised to remind him, in the most tender manner, of his failings, and aid his reformation.”

Notice we’re expected to help a brother, just when he’s struggling. We’re also expected to help him become better. But we’re instructed to do it in the most tender manner. With patience, respect, and genuine concern.

As Master Masons, we make use of the Trowel. Because a temple isn’t held together by stones alone. It’s the cement between that makes it strong. And in the very same way, a lodge isn’t held together just by officers and committees. It’s held together by relationships. By fellowship. Having and showing genuine concern for one another.

It’s the brother who calls to check on someone after surgery. The brother who shows up at a funeral. The brother who helps a widow. The brother who notices when someone hasn’t been around and reaches out to make sure they’re okay. All things that make a lodge feel like a true brotherhood.

And there’s countless opportunities for all of us to do our part. And of course being a Mason is, being often tried.. Not only in the lodge, but wherever we Travel and that’s Masonry in action.

So, just as the business of this Lodge is conducted in peace and harmony, may kindness likewise distinguish our conduct as Masons.

Thank you, Brethren.