Applicant Seeks Membership Despite Troubled Past | A Journey of Redemption
Edited By
Anita Raj
A man in his mid-30s is contemplating a lodge membership application, grappling with his past while reflecting on a decade of sobriety. With a history of legal troubles stemming from addiction, he seeks guidance from fellow lodge members.
A Complicated Background
The man's commitment to change shines through as he reveals, "I've been sober for over a decade. I haven’t consumed alcohol in more than ten years." He acknowledges his past felonies, including theft, and fears how they might affect his application.
Insights from Lodge Members
Comments from current lodge members shed light on how applicants with complex histories are viewed:
“Put yourself out there and see what happens,” suggested one member, advocating for honesty.
Another emphasized, “If the lodge finds out you weren’t fully truthful, that would shut the door pretty permanently.”
A supportive comment stated, “Being open and honest is the way to go. Congratulations on turning your life around.”
It's clear that honesty is highly valued in this community, with shared experiences encouraging applicants to be forthright. A member even noted, “I have voted on accepting new brothers and this information would not stop me.”
Navigating the Application Process
Advice on how to proceed was prevalent, with one individual suggesting consultation: “I would consult with your secretary on it. I’m sure they’ll give you some guidance.” Another recognized the variations in how different lodges handle backgrounds, indicating that state laws and expungement options could play a role in the decision.
Key Takeaways
💭 Honesty is crucial: Members stress the importance of being truthful in the application process.
✊ Supportive community: Many members express a willingness to accept applicants with checkered pasts.
⚖️ Varied criteria: Acceptance often depends on local laws regarding past felonies.
Ultimately, the man’s journey resonates with those who have faced similar challenges. One comment sums it up: “Thank you. Serving my community is something I already do, and some of the best role models in my life currently are masons.” As the application process unfolds, the community appears ready to support those aiming for redemption.