FROM THE EAST - DECEMBER

Deadlines being deadlines, this is being written in November prior to Thanksgiving. As such, the November Stated meeting is still fresh on my mind. I wish to thank all of you who were in attendance. We enjoyed an informative talk by our Junior Warden, acknowledged our veteran’s in attendance as we had just celebrated Veteran’s Day, and discussed a very full slate of activities for the coming weeks. And Past Master Patrick Briody proved that an unfamiliar kitchen is no deterrent to the preparation of a great meal for our members and guests.

We are now moving into one of the most pleasant times of the year. In late November we celebrate Thanksgiving and then the joys of the Christmas season. It is very easy to be caught up in the many things we so rightfully celebrate each year. It is such a special opportunity to celebrate our family and friends. We all love the trappings of the season, despite the commercial excesses, as they remind us of what is truly good and important in our lives.

Unfortunately, it is far too easy to see the many people struggling in these difficult times. In this economic downturn, so many people have lost their jobs and find themselves in very stressful situations not knowing how they will support themselves and their family. For many others, just the uncertainty they are facing on a day to day basis is very straining. There are also many good men we have lost recently. We know of others who are in ill health. Many of us, including myself, have recently lost family members and friends. I would hope each of us in this holiday season would take the opportunity to reach out to our members, widows and others who are in need.

It seems that these days there are very few people that I know that aren’t working harder than ever and who are finding they have less and less time; less time for family as well as for themselves. But please remember that there are so many little things each of us can do that have a major impact on the lives of others.

I would hope we all would eagerly support the Lodge’s toy drive for children who find themselves hospitalized over the Christmas season. I would hope we would support our food drive this holiday season to help stock local food banks. And I hope you would join us for some fellowship in our planned activities during the month.

I look forward to seeing as many as possible at our Stated Meeting in December. For those of who you cannot be in attendance, my wish for you would be a very special holiday season and the best of luck in the coming New Year.

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Gregg Yates
Worshipful Master