Brethren,

Our Country has recently experienced an election like no other. The level of rhetoric, heated speech, accusations and recriminations was beyond anything we have known in recent history. Both political parties have displayed uncivilized behavior far below the actions we embrace as a society of Free and Accepted Masons. Our teachings truly demonstrate the proper ways to interact with our fellow human beings. Now, that the election is over, I am very concerned about the tone and language I am seeing used by the Brethren on social media. My Brothers, our Country has spoken and we must, as good citizens, respecting the process and the results. I would like to ask all of you to please think before you post and use the following guidance:

• Be quick to listen, slow to anger and be always respectful of others.
• Ask yourself: If I were to read a post with the same language but with the opposite opinion to mine, how would I feel?
• As a Freemason, how do my words affect others who know me to be a Freemason, and expect a high level of thought,and discourse from me?

In closing, I ask you to keep the Golden Rule in our hearts and minds and remember that we all have pledged to “pay proper respect to the civil magistrates,to work diligently, live creditably and act honorably by all men.”

With utmost courtesy and respect,

Jeffrey M. Williamson
Grand Master