Like most people, my knowledge of the freemasons and their customs is superficial at best—and this is how members of the organization prefer it. Part of the allure of the freemasons is their secrecy, although in recent history the public has gained knowledge of many of their symbols and rituals. The most iconic of these symbols is the square and compass.
While a 90-degree square angle, compass and the letter “G” may appear to be incongruent concepts on the surace, they each represent a cornerstone of the Masonic belief system. The square, which was traditionally used to determine the integrity of a building’s walls, serves as a representation of tried and true morality. The compass signifies our mortal boundaries, and the “G” is emblematic of God. Together, these components comprise the most recognizable masonry symbol, which is utilized in everything from emblems to Masonic watches.
Now that the national economy is on an upswing, more businesses are willing to hire new employees. For the most part that’s good news for recent college graduates, but there’s no denying that the level of competition can be grueling. The slightest edge can make all the difference between landing a dream job and being relegated back to the pool of disappointed candidates.
When it comes time to interview for a potential job, your choice of clothing makes a huge difference. Outfits should be tastefully coordinated and that means matching men’s belts with one’s shoes. It’s best to have at least two belts – one black and one brown – on hand at all times. In addition, you’ll need some stylish khaki pants and a nice shirt. Depending on your desired level of formality, you can add a suit coat to the ensemble. If you choose to wear a coat, lapel pins add a little extra panache to an outfit.
The title of Past Master is one of the most prestigious in the Mason community. Past Master is the fifth degree and is bestowed upon those who have completed a term as Worshipful Master of a Lodge. It is an indication that an individual is prepared to preside over a Lodge of Master Masons.
As can be imagined, the title of Past Master is a source of honor for any Mason. To that end, symbols, such as the color purple, are used to distinguish these individuals. They may also don other identifying garments or accessories, including Past Master rings and other jewelry.
Despite being the smallest branch of the armed forces in the Department of Defense, The United States Marine Corps is one of the most revered. Originally established during the Revolutionary War in 1775, the Marines have built a reputation for honor, courage, strength, integrity and, of course, loyalty. In fact, their motto, Semper Fidelis, means “always faithful.”
Today, there are roughly 250,000 active and reserve Marines. And while they may be small relative to other US military branches, each Marine maximizes efficiency. On average, it costs $20,000 less to fund the services of a Marine compared to soldiers in other branches; in addition, the Marines have the capability to organize both amphibious and expeditionary missions. Citizens show their support for the troops in myriad ways—from simply hanging an American flag to wearing Marine rings.
For people who dress casually to work, there are ample opportunities to show unique style and your idiosyncratic qualities. Formal wear, however, doesn’t provide the same freedom of expression. Men often have to show all of their personality in a two-inch wide tie and many employers don’t even permit this.
One almost universally accepted fashion accessory for formal wear is the lapel pin. Since 9/11, the American flag has become the standard for politicians, news anchors and other public figures, but there are certainly other options. Lapel pins can feature a variety of images—from fraternal crests to whimsical characters.
As a part of the Masonic organization, the Scottish Rite lets Master Masons continue their education through the first three degrees. The Scottish Rite is comprised of the 4th to 32nd degrees, which are used to show seniority and dedication to masonry. There are several different degrees, and the systems vary in Europe and the United States, which makes the system somewhat confusing.Contrary to popular belief, the Scottish Rite—and freemasonry in general—is not a secret society and is actually quite open to the public. Men are free to become members, but it requires active engagement on the part of the individual. Members tend to show their affiliation to the group through Scottish Rite rings and other fraternal jewelry.
The All Seeing Eye; is one of the favorite symbols of the Illuminati. New World Order Currency: The all-seeing-eye on the dollar bill. Below the illuminati pyramid/eye symbol are the words: “Novus Ordo Seclorum,” which can be translated as: “A new order of the ages”. The “eye” that Scripture wants us to consider is not the physical organ of sight, but the eye of the mind or the soul.
Although he is rarely at liberty to discuss it, my brother has been involved with the Freemasons for numerous years. Most of the people in our family only have a vague understanding of the ideology and practices of the organization, but it is evident that Masonry is an integral part of my brother’s life. As such, we all make a point to treat the topic with tact and respect.
For his birthday this year, I wanted to get him something that portrayed his devotion to the group. Since my knowledge of his particular sect and involvement is minimal, I wanted the gift to be somewhat generic while still being personal. I finally settled on a Masonic watch, and judging by his reaction when he opened, I know that he’ll cherish it for years to come.
When I was a boy, my father bought me several model planes, never thinking he was doing more than feeding my curious interest in airplanes. However, when I was 18 I had aspirations of joining the Air Force. I took the test and placed high enough to enter the Air Force, and thus was set on my career path. spent fifteen years in the Air Force, it was a wonderful experience, though I flew a few dangerous missions. Now I am a pilot for a major commercial airliner, and have a son who has shown a lot of interest in “daddy’s planes”, all the models I made when I was younger.
Though I worry about his safety, I’m sure he would be a wonderful pilot. Just like my dad had done for me, I bought him a model plane for his eighth birthday last week. I also decided to give him one of my prized Air Force rings, which he has always had an affinity for.
When many people think of the term mason, they conjure up images of bricklayers and rock workers. While this is certainly one of the connotations of the word, Freemasonry is just as prevalent. There are several different forms of the Freemason group, and there are members throughout the world.
The Freemasons use the tools of traditional stonemasons in the symbols that are engraved on their Masonic rings and crests. Although the fraternity is broken down into smaller groups known as Grand Lodges, which have their own jurisdiction, all of the groups maintain the basic Freemason religious beliefs—that there is a Supreme Being or “Great Architect.” Although Freemasonry is well-known today than in previous generations, the group is still shrouded in mystery.