DIVERSITY AND IMAGINATION

By ROBERT H. MILLER

Grand Mason of Masons in Indiana

The DIVERSITY in the character of Lodges is one of the interesting aspects of Freemasonry in our Jurisdiction. The individuality of our Lodges peaks the interest of visiting Brethren and creates a unique pride among the members.

That individuality is as varied as the sections of our State and as diverse as the imagination of the Lodge members.

Most of us petitioned the Lodge nearest our home. But if we had had an opportunity to select a Lodge, would we have really known what to look for? In reading various Lodge reports, the difference is profound.

Let me clarify. One Lodge prefers to modernize its age old Temple, thriving on the history echoed from its walls. Another Lodge prefers to build anew, thriving on the revitalization of a new structure. There is a difference. Of course, what really matters is that both send forth Freemasonry into their communities.

And there is a difference in Lodge activities, too. One Lodge with a meager treasury, some indebtedness, has several social functions each year and makes continued use of its Relief Fund. Another Lodge with a sizable bank balance offers no social activities, extends no relief, and participates in no state programs. As you might expect, the first Lodge enjoys the knock on the door from *several petitioners. The other, sitting back on its past laurels, claims that the "times" are not right for men to seek a meaningful relationship with their fellowman. Yes, there is a difference.

The individuality among our Lodges belies those who feel that, because of various Grand Lodge Regulations, Lodges cannot experience any latitude of activity. If that were true, every Lodge would be like its neighbor, every Masonic meal would feature chicken and every officer would be a mere robot. Heaven forbid!

Lodge leaders actually enjoy great freedom-freedom to exercise their imagination in creating stimulating social, recreational and informative evenings that benefit their members and families. One is prone to suspect that those who claim regulations prevent *th6m from being different are actually shunning the additional labor entailed in creativity.

Each Lodge develops, in strength or weakness, a character of its own. It develops that character by the manner in which it obligates, educates and involves its members; by the manner in which it extends hospitality to others and by the manner it makes its presence known in the community.

In developing a strong character some, unfortunately, choose to say "We can't." Fortunately, most choose to say "We will."