BRETHREN GREETINGS FROM THE EAST
Memorial Day is almost here, a time when we give thanks and appreciation to those who have made our lives and liberties possible,esp.those armed forces veterans who have sacrificed their lives in service of this country. Without them and their great efforts we probably would not be here today and able to enjoy the freedoms and blessing that we often take for granted. Keep them in your memory and prayers.
There has been activity in the lodge but no degree work.We had a 2nd degree practice that went well with brothers Mike Lay and Darrell Mandrell siting in the east and brother Jim Salzman giving an excellent lecture. Our Chip program is active and has been co-operating with the east valley law enforcement. Grand Lodge is next Weekend and Grand Royal Arch in
mid August. The dark days of summer are approaching but we hope to do more degree work
this fall.
A friend sent me this message and with his permission I will pass it on to you:
Brethren, after reading a book titled “As A Man Thinketh”by James Allen,I could not help but recalling that King Solomon prayed and asked GOD for wisdom to rule and govern his people effectively. He knew that all things emanate from GOD, that is why all Mason’s begin all their undertakings by beginning with a prayer.
“As a man thinketh in his heart so is he”. Man embraces the whole of his being,because life is so comprehensive it is extremely difficult to reach out and solve every condition
and circumstance of his life. A man is literally what he thinks, his character being the complete sum of all his thoughts. Man being of power intelligence and love,and the commander of his own thoughts; he holds the key to almost every situation,and contains within himself that transforming and regenerating being by which he may make himself what he wills, because God inpowered man with the gift of a free will. Calmness of mind is one of the beautiful jewels of wisdom. It is the result of long and patient self control.
Its presence is an indication of ripened experience,and of more than ordinary knowledge of the operations of thought.
The calm man has learned to govern himelf and knows how to adapt himself to others. The more tranquil a man becomes the greater is his success, his influence, and his power for good. Only the wise man, whose thoughts are controlled and purified,makes the winds and the storms of the soul obey him. Finally,know this-In the ocean of life the isles of blessedness are smiling, and the sunny shore of your ideal awaits you. Keep your hand firmly on the helm of thought. Self controll is strength; right thought is mastery; calmness is power,Say into your heart, “Peace be still”.
May Gods blessing and peace be with you.
Darrell Smith WM
