A Brother Asks: What is the difference between a "Master Mason" and a "True or Real Master Mason"?My Response: Quite bluntly, these are phrases that are used by individuals to point out that a member of the organization is just wearing a title instead of living up to the intent of the title, as they see it.
But in reality and stopping the word play, I cannot define what a "True or Real Master Mason" or, for that matter, a "True or Real Freemason" is, without conveying indirect judgment. Moreover, I don't believe anyone can define it without letting it be known that they are judging another member's suitability to wear these titles.
Brother: But why?
Coach: The reason?
Brother: Yes!
Coach: It's a redundant and unnecessarily judgmental term. Let's just cover the first one.
Brother: Okay.
Coach: A Master Mason is already True. "True" is the basis of the title "Master". One might as well say "Master Master Mason" or "True True Mason" by asking such a question. It's nonsensical, unless you are making effort to convey that judgment.
When a man wears the title, "Master Mason" and has earned it, he is already "True" because he has Laid the Foundation, Learned the Skills and has Built and Created at least one Masterpiece, himself!
Brother: So, there are steps?
Coach: Yes! Here are the steps he took to do just that:
- Prepared to Learn,
- Learned How to Learn, and
- Learns and Teaches (himself and others) daily.
Coach: Indeed! Moreover, a Master Mason who has done the Foundational Work of the first Two Degrees, has also focused his Work upon Building and Creating other Masterpieces, of which are also recognized as such by other Masters.
Brother: Wow!
Coach: Furthermore, a Master Mason seeks to Find and become the Light he Seeks and is also a Guiding Light for other Seekers to do the same.
Brother: What about those members who do not do this and wear the title?
Coach: Anyone claiming the title "Master Mason" who does not meet these descriptions and desires to wear the title unearned, is simply a Ruffian wanting for entitlement.
Brother: Isn't that a little harsh?
Coach: What was one of the primary lessons provided by the third degree drama?
Brother: Demanding unearned wages!
Coach: Indeed! And before you ask, "Yes!" I have fallen into the trap of using the terms "real" and "true" when applied to Master Masons and Freemasons in general.
Brother: And?
Coach: When I catch myself, I correct it by conveying directly what I am making effort to say - there's a huge difference between "members" and those who have done the Work. Sometimes it is a judgment and for good reason too. We have far too many ruffians within our walls.
Brother: So, what's the difference?
Coach: I'll turn the question around and ask back, what are you really trying to convey by the use of the word "true" or "real" in your distinguishing?
F&S,
Brother John S Nagy
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