Archive for April, 2010
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.