My Brothers,

As I write this, there is 10 inches of brand-new snow all throughout the city. It is a stunning visual reminder of the season that is upon us.

The day after Thanksgiving marked the day we all started running around like crazy shopping and it's easy for us to get caught up in it. Sometimes we need reminding it's all about family, friends and brothers.

No doubt you'll hear some famous stories of how Masons on opposite sides found time during the holidays to lay down their arms and judgments and unite as only Masonic brothers can. You'll hear the story of a battle among Blues and Grays, during the Civil War, laying down their arms for a night and celebrating the season together while opening up a virtual Lodge. You might also hear that during that same war, during the single bloodiest day, a wounded Confederate handed a Union Sentry a piece of cloth with a Square and Compass crudely drawn in blood the sentry carried it to a captain who recognized the Masonic emblem. The captain told the colonel that a wounded Confederate needed help. The colonel  asked for volunteers and several Masons offered to help. At the risk of their lives they went to and carried the fallen Lieut. of the Alabama Volunteers to the 5th New Hampshire field hospital. The Lieut. told him about another Mason lying wounded in the cornfield. Back they went and carried him to join the other enemy soldier. Both men received the same treatment, as did the federal wounded from the camp surgeon, a Freemason himself. These were the men who truly remember their obligation to never hesitate to go out of their way to raise a fallen brother.

My brothers, I know we're not at war and these examples are quite extreme but as the season progresses, we need to keep an eye on each other and our loved ones. We need to pay attention and keep a lookout for those brothers in need during this holiday season. Our elderly and those without families are in need of our attention. We need to make sure, as best we can, that none of us are alone or require assistance, especially now. There are some of us could just use a phone call or help with the shovel after a snowfall.

I hope you are all well, in good spirits and ready for things to come this season. I hope you are without need and filled with joy.

I look forward to seeing you at our next summoned communication.

Sincerely and fraternally,