As we look at the valley and Scottish Rite, we can all see the things that need to be done from our own points of view and we can all see what appears to be the easiest or most productive way to get there. Each one of these ideas is critical to the valley from each perspective. From the Supreme Council to newest brother, we are all working to pursue these goals. From things that directly affect the entire southern jurisdiction to things that each of us are working on to become better men, our everyday decisions directly reflect where we are as freemasons and men. Our goals are a driving force and cause us to act and react to our environment and these actions are seen by everyone around us.

The lofty goals of freemasonry give us exactly what Mr. Einstein was speaking of ‘in developing an instinct for what one can barely achieve’. By combating the declining interest in freemasonry, moral values, and ethical sincerity, each of us is given public goals. Protection of our family and friends, both physically and financially, gives us our private goals. Becoming a better person for our G-D and ourselves gives us our personal goals. Each one of these goals are so closely meshed in each of us, that it may be difficult to tell when it starts and when it ends.

The book of Haggia gives us a great insight where we should begin and what we should be concerned with. As the Babylonian captives have returned to rebuild the temple, their concern fell back to their own homes as the comfort level of life increased from that of captivity. Because their goals put themselves first and did not put the Creator first, their efforts had gained them little reward. Now as we look to build the valley, increase our membership, repair and maintain our own temple, improve our Masonic education and ourselves, we must always put G-D first. The lessons we learn cannot increase our faith in man’s wisdom, in our wisdom, but rather should increase our faith and dependence on G-D. I cannot see a loftier or barely achievable goal than bringing myself closer to G-D and divesting myself of the superfluities of life.

Freemasonry, in general, and the Scottish Rite, in particular, gives us the opportunity to practice these goals in an environment that is safe from the derision of the public eye. This gives us the confidence and practice we need, as people, to use these principles in our public life. Our basic cornerstone of all the goals we hope to achieve is built on the common idea among us.

“Its religion, if religion it may be called, is an unfeigned belief in the one living and true G-D.”