The New Past Master (A Poem) 

I've been standing round this evening as I have for years gone by, 
Watching all this ceremony from the corner of my eye. 
Watching Officers changing places, taking new chairs for the o1d,
Up to our retiring Master, who is forced out in the cold. 

And I've often tried to picture what he really thinks about 
During all this ceremony, which will mean that he is out. 
Maybe I am much mistaken - maybe there's a touch of grief. 
But from constant observation, I would gather its relief! 

Think of all the time he's given since his days of Stewardship; 
Think of all the hours of study, just preparing for the trip
That would take him through the Stations one must pass to reach that goal - 
Seven of his years he's given to assume the Master's role.

And we wonder why he did it - has he given him time for naught?
No, it's the love he has for Masonry, and the lessons it has taught. 
Yes he's worked because he loves it, given freely time and skill 
For the good of our great Order, and that honored chair to fill. 

Giving up his other pleasures, which at times seemed hard to do, 
Just to keep the ball a-rolling for his Lodge - and me and you.
There've been times he's been confronted with a question hard to bear. 
Men have waited his decision, which was always on the square.

There've been times when sick and helpless have appealed to him for aid, 
And he's always done his duty in the way he learned his trade. 
And the last rites he has given to those Brothers who have passed, 
Crossed the bar where all good Masons hope some day to rest at last. 

So- tonight his work is ended, and another takes his place; 
In his heart he dreads the parting, though a smile lights up his face. 
For he knows he's given service to his Lodge and fellow man
And he's glad to let another carry on the endless Plan. 

(Author unknown)

FJA Note: I found this in some old papers in the Lodge.