The Guiding Light / March. 2016 9
THE WEST GATE
Well, here we are in April. It seems the month of March just blew by very quickly, pun intended. I have always heard people talk about how time seems to move much faster as one gets older. I can remember as a child how time seemed to stand still or move very slowly. It usually seemed to be the worst during the summer while waiting for the swimming pool to open, or springtime while waiting for the school bell to ring so I could get outside and enjoy the weather. Those were the days. In reference to time, I want to write this month about the opening of the second section in the Entered Apprentice questions and answers of proficiency. This has always been one of my favorite parts of the work.
As an EA, you answer the question of why no metallic substance is allowed in the door. The answer to this question has always given me pause, as I reflect on the enormity of the task described. The effort, time, and precision to build King Solomon’s Temple is almost impossible to imagine. The amount of time and labor required to make such an exact building is incredible. One can relate this effort to the pyramids of Egypt as well. We wonder how such things could have been done without heavy equipment, machinery, or aliens from outer space. The answer may be simpler than we think. Men working together for a common purpose and goal. Are we not able to accomplish much when we put our minds to it? It may take days, months, or even years, but it can be done. I think of this process in my own life, as I build my future moral and Masonic edifice.
I try to look at the bigger picture in life. Where do I want to be in 5, 10, or even 30 years down the road? I want to be able to look back and see that I have been able to grow in both my personal and Masonic life. In my profession as teacher and coach, I have to look at young men and women and be able to see what they are capable of becoming in life. Some will move on to great things, others will find a niche and live a respectable life, and unfortunately some will struggle to find success. It is my job to make sure that I help prepare them for that road of life. Someone once said, we must prepare the child for the road, not the road for the child. We as Masons are constantly striving to become better men, give back to society, and support each other along the way. That foundation is laid early on as an Entered Apprentice. We must continue to build upon it all of our lives. Other brethren will lend a hand along the way, but we must be willing to grow and suffer some setbacks as we go down the road of life. All of this is done without any tool of metal. Keep building my friends!
Randall S. King, Senior Warden