The Public Square is a great online platform for members to meet and discuss various topics pertaining to the fraternity. Here they can ask questions and share their thoughts on a variety of topics with both fellow members and the Supreme Council. Be sure to check back regularly to connect and communicate with fellow members from all across the world.
xSir,
It may not be improper in the first place to inform your readers, that I intend once a quarter to present them, by the help of this website, with a short epistle, which I presume will add somewhat to their entertainment.
With a similar greeting, my colonial ancestor, a widow, began a series of letters to the
New-England Courant. Perhaps you remember this widow from your study of history (which you ought), but if not, then perhaps from the recent popular movie
National Treasure. Her name was Silence Dogood. And it was through this persona that our renowned Brother Benjamin Franklin graced his readers with a bit of wit and commentary on his community. It is with this same good-natured intent that I, though far less skilled than he, offer a small voice on the affairs of our fraternity today.
The Widow Dogood began her commentary with a brief account of her life. Likewise, I would share with you that I am but a simple Brother, one who knelt at the same altar as you, took the same oaths and obligations, and now regularly sit in a lodge not unlike your own. During her time, our fraternity was recognized as elite. Not in terms of numbers, wealth, aristocratic blood, or power, but rather in terms of its ideas and ethics. We drew men from all walks of life, but as diverse as we were in our personal circumstances, we all shared a common trait: we were men of honor and integrity . . . and of conviction and action. Known by these virtues, we enjoyed decades of growth; but as of late, we falter. The reasons offered for our decline are varied and abundant. Perhaps the simplest explanation, however, is that we have allowed distractions to obscure our light, and in the encroaching dimness, we now stumble over minor impediments that, in full light, we would easily step over.
If your patience will permit, I will try to light a small candle to help reveal some of these impediments, so that once illuminated, we can step over them. In this endeavor, I am not insensible of the impossibility of pleasing all, but I would not willingly displease any; and for those who will take offense were none is intended, they are beneath the notice of your humble servant,
Brother Dogood
