Iain (06/07/2009)
I see what you mean now, That is harder for me to comment on as I am in Scotland and things are a wee bit different here.
I dont see that current goings on in any GL should disrupt the workings or harmony in any lodge. If it was found that it did then surely the RWM of that lodge should postpone any procedings and it should be discussed with the brethren how to move forward and get the workings and harmony of the lodge back on track even if it means calling in PGL and GL to get things sorted.
If a brother cant relax in his mother lodge and work with a clear mind then he has to speak up or remove himself untill such times he can work in harmony, If he feels in a position that he cant do that then something is wrong with the system
I am sorry for the confusion. Over 4 pages and it seems I knew from what angle I was approaching the question, but was not conveying it too clearly.
I have always struggled with the concept of "freemasons" accepting responsibility for "righting" the apparent wrongs within society. And it seems that through history those that have tried have not sustained their interest past gaining notoriety and/ or better financial patronage, and their own personal life was a shambles.
Involvement in politics at any level can only lead to confusion and frustration where those that see an apparent injustice are rarely empowered enough to make a difference. But if those persons have no "personal " power, in that they have no command of their own destiny and decision process the efforts seem pointless and to be fair, avoiding the question of "who am I, really?"
Perhaps that is where "freemasonry" should stop. No intereference in others lives, no meddling in social politics and certainly no attempts to make a difference in communities, boroughs or even national legislature.
Concentratiing on being the best you can be within your own life, family etc, that is the best building block to start with. To be honest, that is plenty of work, maybe a lifetimes worth.
What do you think?