In the Entered Apprentice degree we learn of the Rough Ashlar, which is the stone taken from the quarry in its rude and natural state. How does this metaphor apply to our daily lives? This discussion is a work in progress, sort of a rough ashlar of sorts, and your answers to various topic points will help each other smooth out the rough edges of life, to being closer towards a more perfect ashlar of knowledge.
Brethren, our Education Programs are meant to help us become better men, fathers, husbands and Masons. With this in mind, be thinking about the rough edges of your daily lives and let’s discuss the opportunity to shape the Lodges’ education program for the year. What topics are of interest to you? Is it history of the world or of Freemasonry? Do you want to know more about Finances, Retirement? How about learning how to tie a bow tie? We can talk about anything of interest, and better yet, we can draw upon your knowledge of any topic you are willing to share. We all have unique experiences that may help the rest of us learn something new. What can you share with the Lodge? Let us know at the January meeting.
Back to the rough ashlar, what does is the definition of “rude” and “natural” state? As defined by Merriam-Webster, rude is defined as being rough and unfinished, or lacking refinement. In this definition think of our daily lives, how we react with others. Do we stop and think if our actions have consequence? What are ways we can be less unrefined in our daily lives?
- Show empathy
- Consideration of others
- Vocal and body language
- Staying on task
- Have a daily agenda
When looking at the definition of Natural in Merriam-Webster, many other connotations arise as to the symbology in our own lives.
Natural in relation to stone is having or constituting a classification based on features existing in nature, or relating to nature as an object of study and research. In the ritual we are asked to take a study of nature, and observe her traits to learn a better understanding of our own lives.
In thinking about life, natural seems to discern an inherent sense of right and wrong. In that, we should naturally strive to remember our teachings in the Great books of Nature and Revelation. As we learn to be better humans, we should practice these teachings until they become natural to us. Of the most interesting uses of the word Natural, it can be defined as being in a state of nature without spiritual enlightenment, or relating to, or operating in the physical as opposed to the spiritual world. With this in mind, we can improve our natural state once again by continuing to study the Great Lights.
Both Rude and Natural in the above sense have been used as far back as the 14th century. Which, in thinking about the earliest records of our ritual, these terms were already well used in this manner.
In what ways can we assist each other in smoothing out our ashler into a more perfect ashler?
- sharing experiences
- school /training
- helping others
- how we conduct ourselves in lodge / life
- see the EA education manual that has some expectations for in lodge
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