I'd heard of Masonry as that secret organization. I thought it would be cool to join a group that was out to have each other's backs through thick and thin. When I met my future wife, I mentioned something to her father about Masonry — I had no idea the path that simple inquiry would lead me down. Eleven years later, I've participated in brotherly events, helped others, and had a genuinely good time. There are parts of Masonry that are better suited to some. My sponsor told me, “you'll get out, whatever you put in.”

What I did not know at the time was that he was a past master, well regarded both as a man and a Mason — a family man with a gift for lighting up a room. Johnny was someone I called Uncle, as I'd married into my wife's family. I used to marvel that my wife had so many uncles. At family gatherings I was drawn to his bright light — always a kind word and a nickname for everyone he chatted with, willing to lend a hand however he could. A genuinely nice guy — a brother I had the privilege to know “on the level.”

What I learned was that the bond was Masonry versus blood. Some could say that the Masonic bond is as thick as blood, as it is given freely. There are things I like and don't like, and there is an open forum to discuss anything on your mind — working together to find a better way.