The Front Page – February 2021

When a new building is made, its foundations are the first to be laid. Sturdy foundations are the unseen support that we take for granted yet they bear the brunt of the weight of the structure. From that foundation, walls, roofs, doors and the like are added and if they are plumb, square and level the most magnificent buildings can be made and will last for centuries. Being a mason means that we need to set the foundations of our heart correctly, in order to lead lives that are also plumb, square and level.

It is therefore horrifying to me to see the vile attack on the U.S. Capitol, not only for the damage to the building and the tragic loss of life but to what the building represents. The Capitol is the home of American democracy where the acts and work of elected officials are carried out as has been done for centuries. The U.S., in its most ideal form, is a beacon of light spreading this message across the world and the desecration of American values only brings shadow to me as a mason and an American.

During the events of January 6th, I came across a phrase that was new to me; “A mason at labor”. This could mean many things to many men but to me it means keep up the good work and remember your foundations as we are not perfect beings, but we can always strive to uphold our pillars of wisdom, strength and beauty.

Matthew Cox
Junior Deacon, Washington 46