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Due to the events that recently have befallen our country, it has become necessary to provide you with a second message (click here) for this issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason. The message here is more typical of the type given near the end of a Grand Master's administration and was written conceptually prior to Sept. 11. We will not dwell on what we may have done or not done these two years, but rather use this forum to say "THANK YOU" to all who have made it possible. First, to our Grand Lodge officers and past grand masters - we appreciate all your counsel, advice, critical commentary, and assistance. The input of several can offer the insight of different viewpoints and levels of experience that lead to successful results. Representing all, not just a select few has been the hallmark of our Fraternity. Your officers represent the critical mass that has and will lead our Fraternity into even greater heights in the future. This also applies to our district deputy grand masters who, as a united force, carry the message of our Fraternity to our lodges and their members. To them, we say, "THANK YOU." To the executive directors of our foundations and the committees that support them, a big "THANK YOU" is in order. They have taken our related groups into new realms with a vision that makes them not only exist, but have relevancy not just in our organization, but in society as a whole. For instance, we sponsor educational programs for all children in our great Commonwealth, from kindergarten through college. These programs positively impact upon their lives and teach lessons not always learned in a textbook. Lessons on how to survive in today's society, how not to give into peer pressure by becoming another statistic of substance abuse, how to work together as a team to solve problems common to all, and how to protect oneself in dangerous situations. To all our committee members and employees - we may have given you a few challenges that initially may not have been anticipated. You accepted those challenges and have proven how great you really are in your service of our Fraternity. To my "kitchen cabinet," those who started meeting almost ten years ago and have stayed with the process to see the fruition of their efforts. I cannot say "THANK YOU" enough. They have given large amounts of their personal time in the preparation and carrying forth of concepts that may have seemed a bit lofty years ago, but are realities today. To my family: They have suffered privations of time and invasions upon their "space" over the years. I have not been the parent I would like to have been in attending more of their events as our children were growing up. There always seemed to be a "Masonic" event scheduled at those times. I would hope that our emphasis on FAMILY is truly adopted by you in your lives and that we never forget that family comes first. To my parents who throughout my life stressed principles of integrity, of living by your word - you were right! To my wife, I cannot say "THANK YOU" enough! She has endured many missed meals, lack of privacy, constant tying up of the telephone, and other similar matters that a person of lesser character would not tolerate. She also has served as the most severe critic in all my actions, and has been a humbling and leveling force for me. Lastly, to you our members; you deserve more credit than can be given. You have shown by your attendance, by your participation, by your suggestions, and by your donations why we are the greatest fraternal organization in the world. Recognizing that there always are a few a very few who are never satisfied and do not contribute, the vast majority of you are shining examples of the principles of Freemasonry in action and an inspiration beyond your local community. Pennsylvania Freemasons are looked upon literally in many different ways, not only as leaders in their lodges or their communities, but as leaders in the larger world of Freemasonry. As your Grand Master, I SALUTE YOU. As the gavel passes, my brethren, we trust that you will support the new administration in the manner in which you have supported this administration. When you do, you will continue to exemplify those important principles we profess of being a band of brothers among whom no contention should exist, except as to who can best work and best agree. THANK YOU my brethren for this unbelievable opportunity to serve. SO MOTE IT BE!
Sincerely and fraternally,
Robert L. Dluge, Jr., |
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