From the East
As we literally dig out from the depths of winter I am reminded about the part of the “Letter G” lecture that refers to the seasonal change observed by the discerning eye. Yes, it is true that despite being buried under feet of snow, and the functional world as we know it literally freezing up for a few days (as of this moment the kids of Cumberland still aren’t back to school), that by the time you read my next message, we will actually by in Spring!
Those changes, where we struggle in melt and mud, watch the snow give way to a brown and gray wasteland, and where we long for a ray of sunshine strong enough to finally warm us again, are just changes. Changes that are necessary for the ground to support new green shoots. Changes that see new life spring from burrows. Changes that hopefully fill our heart with appreciation for what is possible after a challenging time.
As my year in the East continues, I see the changes in Lafayette as well! I see a Lodge filled with officers that are doing wonderful degree work thus far, and I thank them for all of their hard work. I watch with joy how well B: SD Shawn Pierce did in delivering the Middle Chamber this month. How his dedication and hard work paid off, and how his confidence in his Masonic journey grows. I get to see B: SW Mike Sprague’s realization that it is go time for planning for his journey to the East which is not far off! I can even see the growing excitement in W: JW Derek Emery for his planned “revenge tour” to the East….and in just a short amount of time, change will occur, and they will be assuming new chairs and flourishing in their new roles.
I also see our Candidates, growing from EAs to FCs, and well on their journey to becoming Master Masons in a few months! Led by a very dedicated B: JD James Bray, who is shepherding them on their way, I see how their confidence grows with each day, and how much energy they are bringing to Lafayette! Well done thus far Brothers!
I guess the point is, that change is inevitable. It’s the journey that matters. At least that’s the cliche. For me, it’s remembering the moments of the journey, the little things, the inevitable changes that we rush to complete perhaps are not as important as the moments of which those changes are compromised. The deep breath that the SD takes after he finishes his Middle Chamber. The smile on a candidates face when he is brought to light. Thats the good stuff. I hope I can grab enough of those moments before October roles back around.
Fraternally, W:. Matt Ludwig
