🚀 go-pugleaf

           "The teachings of Freemasonry are veiled in allegory"

     Recently I saw a Studebaker at an antique auto show. A real gussied up
1948 Studebaker bullet nosed sedan. The model that was the peak of Studebaker
styling - shortly before it ceased all vehicle production.
     It looked mint. The body panels were fair and smooth. The paint was
perfect and well shined. The tires new. The windows clear and unblemished.
     I asked the owner how it ran---He said seldom!!
     He explained that replacement parts were hard to find and buy, it did
not meet current emission standards, and, as a showpiece, he was unwilling to
subject it to use and exposure that might result in damage. Further he
explained, he was not willing to substitute parts, like an engine,
transmission or rear end, from other manufacturers that would enable him to
use the car, or at least keep it running. These parts, he said, even though
unseen, would change the car from what it was to something else even though
it would be more usable and give it a longer life.
     As I listened to the owner's remarks, I suddenly thought "This guy is
talking about Masonry."
     The setting was appropriate-a collection of antiques assembled so that
the curious could appreciate the craftsmanship of a bygone era, at least the
outside part they could see.
     The situation similar-A prestigious name but the supply of parts
inadequate to replace those lost to the ravages of age, and unable to operate
without restriction in its current environment.
     The attitude of the owner was true antiquarian--Limit exposure that
might result in damage, and NO SUBSTITUTION OF PARTS----even though they
would strengthen the structure and add to it's life.
     The similarities between the Studebaker and Masonry were startling. It
was apparent the owner and I were of different philosophies: The owner
desired to maintain a museum piece which chronicled the perfection of a
certain vehicle and manufacturer at a certain time; while I, on the other
hand, would retain the outward appearance and the basic structural elements
used as a foundation for the vehicle, and substitute new parts and materials
necessary to extend it's usable life.
     These differences are reflected in Masonic thought today.
     Is Masonry to become the Studebaker of Fraternities?
___________________________________________________________________________
          Thanks and a tip 'o the fedora to:
      Bro. Charles Munro, WM, Canton Lodge, No. 98, Tyler, Texas

      Fraternal greetings from SE Pennsylvania!!
          o  George S. Robinson, Jr., PM  o
         /^\    Mt. Pickering Lodge      /^\
       \/ G \/    No. 446 F & A M      \/ G \/
       / \./ \  G.L.of Pennsylvania    / \./ \
          ^                               ^

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