May 2008

FROM THE EASTERN PERSPECTIVE

Well, Brethren, the calendar says it’s spring, and with any luck at all, we’ve seen the last of the ice and snow. The past winter has been particularly bad this year for slipping and sliding. Good, though, for the emergency room business. Looking forward, things will begin to turn green, new life. Already tulips and daffodils are looking up. In the spring, all things begin to grow. Having been raised on a farm, we learned to respond to these signs, not the least of which this spring is John W. Barkley Lodge. This spring, we will grow by some 200 members. We’ve already seen an increase in Lodge attendance. To say it’s great is an understatement. One of the Lodges of which Cornerstone was composed was Brooklyn #454. The reason that Lodge is held so dearly, is because my father belonged there, having joined in early 1941, almost 30 years to the day before I joined Laurel Lodge.

My father always had the highest regard for his Lodge. He kept a small book in his desk drawer with strict instructions to “Never Touch.” If it was in code, I couldn’t have read it anyway. He on several occasions went to Canada with them and brought back some very nice English China tea cups. I still have these cups.

So Brooklyn Lodge #454 was my earliest exposure to Masonry and has no doubt influenced my attitude of Masonry for life. It would be interesting to see what Lodge documents would still remain. He was initiated February 12, passed March 26, and raised April 23, all in 1941.

Anyway, to the Brethren from Cornerstone, on behalf of the Officers of Barkley, WELCOME!!! Please come as often as you can. I would also point out that we put a lot of effort into the planning of our Special nights and we respond to your attendance and reactions.

One of the Special events you’ll find in this Trestle Board has the Dixieland Players Band. This is a fun-filled group of elderly musicians who have been playing at the Indians games since 1994. They will play by request for only you on June 11. Please attend.

Allan H. Warner, P.M., Worshipful Master