Meridian Lodge #47, Idaho A.F.A.M.

Not long ago a the world of television was introduced to a silly catch-phrase.   Undoubtedly part of it's silliness was due to the manner in which it was introduced.  But it did made me think about what actually [u]is[/u] in my wallet.  Each of you, like me, has something special that you usually carry in your wallet.  In this particular case, I'm talking about your dues card.  So what's so special about a dues card you ask?  In reality, there's not much special about that little piece of paper.  What it represents, however, is quite remarkable.

There are several ways we can identify ourselves as masons.  The recent addition of the masonic license plate is an excellent way to advertise to those around us on the road that masonry is still alive in Idaho.  Masonic jewelery allows us to show those around us that we're masons.  But the dues card is safely tucked away, where none but us know it's there.  Because it's hidden, it's easier to hide the fact that we're a mason.  Only our integrity keeps us bound to the fraternity.  Integrity makes a man do the right thing, even when he thinks no one is watching.   Thus integrity is the measure of a man's true worth.

So why all this talk about a simple piece of paper?  For the simple reason that I'd like to get to know more about each of my brothers, particularly my brethren in Meridian #47.  There's a reason you have a dues card, and I'd like to know why.  Our lodge needs your help.  We need brothers willing to fill positions, and willing to learn parts.  Those parts which teach new masons what masonry stands for, and exemplifies what it means to you.  We're currently looking for more help with some of our special projects, like the scholarship program, and our lodge social night program.

We mock those new years resolutions, but gym's love the new year when they can sign fools up for an entire year, knowing that they'll only use it for the first month or so.  Having a membership and not utilizing it to it's fullest seems a bit silly to me.  Why should I obtain a membership, only to put it away?  I challenge each of you to think about your dues card.  Why do you carry one?  What does it mean to you?  Perhaps more importantly, what do you [u]do[/u] about it?

Remember, that little card says that you are a member in good standing of the oldest fraternity in the world.  An organization which was founded on principles more durable than the metals wrought into statues of ancient kings.  That card states that you are a willing participant in actions worthy of all imitation.  Let us remember that our dues cards are there, and what they stand for.