I hold in my hand a little scrap of plastic 2 ½ X 3 ½ inches in size. It is of no intrinsic worth, not a bond, not a check or a receipt for valuables, yet it is my most priceless possession. It is my membership in a Masonic Lodge.
It tells me I have entered into a spiritual kindred ship with my fellow Masons to practice charity in word and deed; to forgive and forget the faults of my brethren; to hush the tongues of scandal and innuendo; to care for the crippled, the hungry, the sick, and to be fair and just to all mankind.
It tells me that no matter I may travel in the world I am welcome to visit a place where good fellowship prevails among brothers and friends.
It tells me that my loved ones, my home, and my household are under the protection of every member of this great Fraternity, who have sworn to protect and defend mine, as I have to swear to protect and defend theirs.
And finally, it tells me that when my final exit from the stage of life is made, there will be gathered around my faults, though they may be many.
It tells me that should I ever be overtaken by adversity or misfortune through no fault of my own, the hands of every Mason on the face of this earth will be stretched forth to assist me in my necessities.
It tells me that; and a great deal more, this little card, and make me proud, yet humble, that I can possess this passport into a Society of Friends and brothers that number in the millions.
