As a young Mason, having
returned the wand stands to an empty Temple from
where borrowed, I walked silently across the floor to the temple door, and
with
hand on light switch, paused and looked around. My fellows in the bar
were waiting for my return, but there was a duty I had to do first.
Three empty chairs stood in this room,
Three candles to disperse all gloom,
The chequered tiles, black and white,
Our sorrow and joys before our sight.
The tracing boards were facing in.
The organ to which we sing,
Our opening and closing odes,
With familiarity it bodes.
The merry Masons I could hear afar,
In this room, (not from the bar),
From years of loving Brotherhood,
I, for a moment humbly stood
The ghosts of Deacons and Wardens walked
With wands of Office and talked
Of familiar ancient lessons taught
By Plum and Square and level thought.
The Master watching o’er all,
Past Masters. at the ‘Wailing Wall’
With heads in hands they sighed
No matter how the Masons tried.
I smiled and felt a comfort strong
Amongst the company in this empty room
And turning, I stepped and saluted those
Who came before,
Back in the bar, they asked where I had been.
I replied, that the company I had been in
Respect demanded, so I was delayed
Whilst to our Brothers, homage paid.
Wednesday Afternoon Meeting
Rush from work,
Must be quick.
Shave and shower
Must look slick.
Into my ‘stripes’ I climb
Mystic tie. Must be on time.
Check my case and raffle prize
Got my glasses on my eyes?
Everything seems to be o.k.
Jump in the car-I’m on my way!
Traffic from the school - run, thick,
Hurry up! Do be quick!
I’ll just flick through the book as well
I think I know it, soon we’ll tell.
What’s that word? Begins with ‘A’
Approbation? I just can’t say,
I’ll have another little look
In my trusty Ritual book.
Well, that’s alright, I can see
Word-perfect I will be
This afternoon in the Temple, where
I say my bit; when I get there!
Now, must find a parking place
Hope I don’t look too red of face
Grab my case and in the door
Which Temple? Oh it’s on the second floor.
Up the stairs, two at a time
There’s the Master! Looking fine.
Hello, John. Trust you’re well.
I’ll just get dressed, ‘cause I can tell
The meeting is about to commence;
The D.C. looks rather tense.
Shan’t be a mo, I’m almost done
Got my collar and apron on
Got two left gloves, but that’ll do
Got my medals. Phew!
Right off we go
Into the Temple,- slow.
Off with the left foot
On with the show!
Try to calm my racing heart
Right! Were off!
Here we go!
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