The Principles of Freemasonry

by Mason Bond

The Principles of Freemasonry are in no way unique to the fraternity, but apparent in most groups of good cause, religions and gatherings for the benefit of others.

As much as most masonic sites and voices of Freemasonry will stand up and state that Freemasons live by the three great principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth, in reality seldom does a Freemason achieve such a grand boast. Much the same as any church will gladly state what it takes to be a follower and what virtues one must have accordingly, whereby a passing look at most would show a failing.

To my mind the principles of Freemasonry are more an aim, than a fact. Man kind has always been guided by it's instinct and it's desires, and each man is governed to a differing extent by these primeval influences.

A Freemason, by the lessons taught in the degrees, by contemplation of it's symbols, and by the interaction with others, is by nature desirous of being a better person. For this purpose a goal must be set, a target to aim for, and I believe than in reality that is what these principles are.

Every action in life can be marked and evaluated by these principles, and each Freemason should in truth check himself against these principles within the compasses (due bounds) and where necessary adjust himself by the square to remain on the level with his fellow man and NOT just fellow Freemasons.

Modern life is inheriting a "just enough" and "when necessary" attitude of which Freemasons are not immune, with men acting one way in lodge because any other way will not be tolerated, but completely different his apron is off. There was a time when masonic charges were commonly heard on the actions of brethren both in and outside the lodge, and as much as Freemasonry is governed from within, their reach regarding the fellows should not end at the lodge door!.

I have often heard my fellow Freemason comment on how this and that is nothing to do with Freemasonry which has always puzzled me. Freemasonry is, as said by these same people, an organisation that helps "good men be better" it is a "way of life" which in itself is a bit of a catch 22, for if life outside the lodge is nothing to do with the lodge how can it influence it? Just because we are adults we do not escape the childish attitudes of when no one is looking, where there is no accountability, so heavily proved by the modern internet!

The principles of Freemasonry are the aims and desires of every Freemason, well should be, and not towards lodge life and in the presence of fellows of the craft only.

Mason Bond Esq.