FraternalTies - The tie that binds

Plumbing Is the New Masonry

2026-02-01T23:46:17-05:00

For most of history, the men who mattered most to civilization were not the loudest or the most visible. They were the ones who built, maintained, and understood the physical systems everyone else depended on. Masons once held that role. Today, plumbing is quietly taking its place.

As economies digitize and entire careers move behind screens, something unexpected is happening. Visionaries in technology and infrastructure are pointing young men not toward coding bootcamps, but toward skilled trades. Plumbing, in particular, keeps showing up in serious conversations about long-term opportunity, financial stability, and real-world value.

The reason is simple: the modern world still runs on physical systems. Water supply, sanitation, heating, and pressure regulation are not abstract problems. They are mechanical realities governed by physics, material limits, and human skill. When a system fails, theory offers no solution. Someone with tools, training, and judgment has to step in and fix it.

For decades, trades were treated as a backup plan rather than a profession. Universities expanded, white-collar jobs multiplied, and craftsmanship quietly declined. Now the pendulum is swinging back. Skilled plumbers are aging out of the workforce faster than they are being replaced, while cities, buildings, and infrastructure continue to grow older and more complex. Scarcity is returning value to mastery.

This mirrors the position masons once held. Masonry required apprenticeship, precision, and an understanding of load, alignment, and durability. Errors were unforgiving. A wall either stood or it didn’t. Plumbing operates under the same discipline. Pipes must slope correctly, pressure must be balanced, joints must hold. There is no room for shortcuts. The work either functions or fails.

Technology has not changed this. Software can optimize schedules and manage diagnostics, but it cannot replace the human judgment required to navigate old buildings, undocumented modifications, and real-world constraints. Plumbing is not assembly-line work. Every job presents unique variables that require experience rather than automation.

That reality is why plumbing is becoming a career of choice rather than last resort. It offers independence, reliable demand, and a clear link between effort and reward. A competent plumber owns his skill in a way few digital workers do. His value does not disappear with a platform update or market correction.

There is also a deeper appeal. Plumbing restores a sense of craftsmanship that many men feel is missing from modern work. It demands accountability, problem-solving, and respect for natural laws. Water flows where it will. Gravity does not care about intent. The work teaches discipline without needing a lecture.

Masonry once shaped civilization by shaping stone. Plumbing now sustains civilization by controlling flow. Different materials, same responsibility. In a world increasingly removed from physical reality, the men who understand how things actually work are becoming indispensable again.

Plumbing is not a step backward. It is a return to work that matters.

🔺

- JP Gomez

Top 10 Facts About Freemasonry According to AI

2025-11-14T10:07:49-05:00

As someone who has spent most of my life inside the Craft, I already have my own answers to the question of what Freemasonry is and what it teaches. But we now live in a time when many people form their first impressions through AI tools instead of books, mentors, or real conversations. Because of that, I wanted to see how AI itself explains the fraternity. So I asked a simple question: “What are the top ten things you know about the Freemasons?” The response was clear, surprisingly accurate in many places, and worth sharing.

1. Freemasonry Is the World’s Oldest Fraternal Organization

The modern form of Freemasonry began in 1717 with the creation of the first Grand Lodge in London. Its symbolic roots go back to medieval stonemasons’ guilds and to biblical narratives that were used to teach moral lessons. Few organizations today can claim a lineage this old or a system this consistent.

2. It Teaches Through Symbols, Not Dogma

The Square, the Compasses, the Level, and the Plumb are not decorations. They are philosophical tools used to teach integrity, self-discipline, justice, temperance, and moral balance. Freemasonry does not prescribe beliefs. It uses symbolism to encourage personal reflection and growth.

3. Belief in a Supreme Being Is Traditionally Required

Most Masonic jurisdictions require belief in a Supreme Being but do not define which one. Freemasonry is not tied to a denomination. Christians, Jews, Muslims, Sikhs, and others meet together in lodge. Some jurisdictions, such as the Grand Orient of France, have removed this requirement entirely, showing that Masonry adapts to different philosophical climates.

4. Freemasonry Is Not a Religion

Many people misunderstand this point, but Freemasonry is not a religion and does not offer a system of salvation. Religious and political discussions are prohibited inside the lodge to prevent division. Instead, each man is encouraged to follow the dictates of his own conscience and faith.

5. Masons Advance Through Degrees

Freemasonry is structured into three degrees: Entered Apprentice, which represents the beginning of the journey; Fellowcraft, which emphasizes learning and the seven Liberal Arts and Sciences; and Master Mason, which represents maturity and the completion of the foundational teachings. This progression reflects the development of a person from innocence to knowledge and then to responsibility.

6. Secrecy Is Mostly Ceremonial

Many outsiders imagine Masonic secrecy as hidden information about world events. In reality, the secrets consist of grips, passwords, and ritual elements preserved from medieval operative stonemasons. The deeper secrets are internal. They include self-mastery, discipline, brotherhood, and personal responsibility. These lessons cannot be leaked because they must be lived and practiced.

7. Masons Have Shaped History

Operative stonemasons built the great cathedrals of Europe. Later, speculative Freemasons played major roles in the intellectual and political developments of the Enlightenment. Notable Freemasons include George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Voltaire, Simón Bolívar, and Mozart. These individuals were drawn to the principles of reason, liberty, and moral duty that Freemasonry promotes.

8. The Focus Is Self-Improvement

Freemasonry asks every member to improve himself. This includes building character, serving others, cultivating knowledge, and strengthening the community. It is one of the earliest and most organized systems of personal development in the Western world, long before the idea of “self-help” became common.

9. Conspiracy Theories Follow Freemasonry Everywhere

Because Freemasons are discreet, use symbolism, and have a long and influential history, conspiracy theories have surrounded the Craft for centuries. Most of these myths come from political attacks in the nineteenth century, religious fundamentalism, and now social media. The truth is much simpler. Freemasonry survives because the work it teaches is timeless and practical.

10. The Mission Is Simple: Make Good Men Better

This is the core purpose of the Craft. Freemasonry does not exist to control governments or to hide secret knowledge. It exists to help good men refine their character, strengthen their moral compass, live with integrity, and build better families and communities. It focuses on inner transformation that becomes visible through consistent action in daily life.

- JP Gomez

It’s Happening: Why 2024 Feels Like 1984

2024-11-16T14:51:00-05:00

In George Orwell’s 1984, the world is controlled by an omnipresent, unfeeling entity that monitors every thought, every word, and every action.

While Orwell’s dystopia once felt like a distant nightmare, 2024 has brought us closer to its unsettling reality. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has introduced tools that simplify our lives but quietly redefine how we think, speak, and express ourselves.

The Hidden Risk of AI

AI is everywhere. It drafts emails, suggests headlines, and finishes our sentences. Each time AI “polishes” your words, it subtly nudges your thoughts into patterns it deems efficient and rational, but often devoid of human nuance. Over time, this influence risks creating a newspeak of AI-approved language, thus narrowing our ability to express original ideas and fostering conformity.

Why It Matters

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1) Words are sacred—they are the foundation of creation, connection, and thought. Without words, there is no expression of ideas, no reflection of self, no sharing of truths. Philosophically, language is the bridge between thought and reality, enabling us to shape the world around us and ourselves in return.

Allowing AI to subtly shape our language risks surrendering that power. It becomes easier to communicate with polished efficiency but harder to think deeply, question boldly, or create freely. If we lose the richness of our language, we risk losing the richness of our humanity.

2024: A Defining Moment

2024 is drawing to a close marking a year of profound change: a pivotal US election, Elon Musk’s growing influence on global conversations—underscored by his recent appointment to lead the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (or simply DOGE, of course)—and intensifying debates within the AI sphere about trust, transparency, and accountability. These events aren’t just headlines; they underscore the urgent need for us to actively shape how we think and express ourselves. This is a defining moment, not a fleeting trend.

What You Can Do

AI is a tool, not a master. To ensure it serves your voice, not defines it, use it thoughtfully—question it, challenge it, and maintain ownership of your thoughts. Understanding how AI shapes language is the first step to preserving individuality.

Reclaim your voice by joining groups that celebrate spoken and original expression. Organizations like Toastmasters provide a platform to refine your public speaking and communicate ideas with clarity and authenticity. Similarly, Freemasonry fosters deep thought and dialogue, where the spoken word is revered as a powerful tool for connection and self-expression.

This movement needs your support. By purchasing an item from our 1984/2024 Collection, you’re not just acquiring a product—you’re fueling the fight to keep humanity at the center of innovation. This isn’t charity—it’s my livelihood. Every purchase sustains this effort to spark critical conversations, protect individuality, and inspire a future where creativity, authenticity, and human connection thrive.

As we move into 2025 and beyond, let’s ensure innovation uplifts humanity, not controls it. Together, we can secure a future where our words remain our own and our voices, uniquely human.

This is #TheTieThatBinds.

The Truth Behind the 5 Biggest Lies About Freemasonry

2024-09-10T23:08:30-04:00

As a Christian Freemason, I’ve encountered a slew of wild accusations about Freemasonry—mostly from fellow Christians. It’s disheartening to see how much confusion persists, particularly among those who rely on incomplete or outdated sources rather than engaging directly with accurate information. I’ve used the term "moròns" (yes, with an accent) not out of malice, but to jolt them into recognizing the absurdity of these claims. Shock tactics can be effective for challenging deeply ingrained misconceptions, much like how being called out by an elder in my youth, though painful, ultimately helped me grow. Let’s address the five biggest misconceptions about Freemasonry:

1. Freemasons worship Satan.

Fact: Freemasonry isn’t a religion. It doesn’t offer salvation—that’s between you and God. Members are required to believe in a Supreme Deity, but Satan? Absolutely not. Satanists don’t worship Satan like people think; for them, Satan represents opposition, and most Satanists are actually atheists. Since atheists don’t believe in a Supreme Being, they can’t be Freemasons*.
(*In some jurisdictions, like the Grand Orient of France, atheists are accepted, but that’s not the case in most.)

2. Freemasons sacrifice children.

Fact: This one’s as absurd as it sounds. Freemasons can’t be convicted felons, and child sacrifice? That’s pure fiction, dating back to ancient myths about Moloch, but modern fearmongers have blown it out of proportion. Freemasons are focused on community service and personal growth—not the stuff of horror movies.

3. Freemasons are anti-Christian.

Fact: The majority of Freemasons are Christians. Freemasonry places the Bible—the Great Light—at the center of its rituals. Members take personal oaths on the Bible, but not to commit to anything sinister. These oaths are about self-improvement: bettering yourself every day, in every way. The values Freemasons strive for—charity, integrity, kindness—are deeply aligned with Christian teachings. If we’re anti-Christian, we’re doing a terrible job of showing it, considering the Bible is central to everything we do.

4. Freemasons control the government/world affairs.

Fact: If Freemasons ran the world, you’d think we’d at least get our Lodge meetings to start on time. Yes, there have been influential Freemasons throughout history—presidents, politicians, inventors—but that’s because Freemasonry attracts ambitious, thoughtful individuals who care about personal growth, tradition, and community service. We love the rigidity of ritual and preserving tradition, but world domination? That’s a stretch.

5. Freemasons worship idols or pagan symbols.

Fact: Symbols like the Square and Compasses are tools for teaching, not for worship. They help members learn about fairness, integrity, and good character. And if you’re concerned about pagan symbols, you might want to take a second look at the days of the week. Monday for the moon god, Thursday for Thor, and Saturday for Saturn. Yep, you’ve been unknowingly living in a pagan worship calendar this whole time. Relax, though—we’re not here to judge.

Why do these myths persist? Because people love to be afraid. It’s the same reason we pay to see horror movies or ride rollercoasters. Fear is exciting, but the truth about Freemasonry is much more grounded: it’s about personal growth, community service, and living by a moral code. Let’s be real—the truth is way more interesting than these wild conspiracy theories.

About the Author

Authored by Brother J. Paul Gomez, a devoted father of four, Senior DeMolay, Past Master, and Christian, this piece reflects my personal insights and experiences. My perspective is shaped by my journey and understanding within both Freemasonry and my faith.

Disclaimer

The views expressed in this writing are solely those of the author and do not represent the official stance of my lodge, my grand lodge, or Freemasonry as a whole. The intent is to provide a personal perspective and stimulate thoughtful discussion rather than to speak on behalf of the broader Masonic community.

Are Freemasons Dumb?

2024-04-26T14:08:26-04:00

One of the more absurd accusations levied against Freemasons in online forums is the claim that they are intellectually deficient. This baseless accusation stems from the misguided belief that high-level Freemasons engage in occult practices and conspire to bring about chaos and suffering in the world. Skeptics wonder if Freemasons are indeed naive, as they perceive themselves to be enlightened about the so-called 'truth' while Freemasons remain oblivious.

While occasional banter can be entertaining, the purpose of this blog post is not to engage in frivolous exchanges. Instead, it aims to showcase the timeless wisdom possessed by some of our Masonic Brothers.

In today's fast-paced world, filled with myriad challenges and constant distractions, navigating life can be overwhelming. In such times, we can turn to the timeless wisdom of Brother Benjamin Franklin, a polymath whose legacy continues to inspire generations. As a distinguished member of the Lodge of Nine Muses, also known as the Tun Tavern Lodge, Franklin's insights resonate deeply with the ethos of Freemasonry, embodying principles of industry, wisdom, and resilience.

Tip 1: 'Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.'

Numerous studies have shown that adhering to a natural circadian rhythm, aligning sleep patterns with the day-night cycle, promotes optimal health and cognitive function. Prioritizing restorative sleep is essential for physical vitality and mental acuity.

Tip 2: 'Conquer Your Vices, Cultivate Your Virtues.'

Stoic philosophy emphasizes the importance of mastering one's impulses and nurturing virtuous qualities. By practicing self-discipline and moral excellence, individuals can overcome destructive habits and cultivate inner strength, enabling them to weather life's storms with resilience.

Tip 3: 'Never leave that till tomorrow which you can do today.'

Procrastination often hinders productivity and personal development. Addressing tasks promptly and efficiently helps reduce stress and maintain a sense of control over responsibilities. Embracing a proactive mindset empowers individuals to seize opportunities and unleash their full potential.

Bonus Tip: 'Do not anticipate trouble, or worry about what may never happen. Keep in the sunlight.'

Maintaining a positive outlook and refraining from unnecessary worry are essential for mental well-being. By focusing on the present moment and fostering optimism, individuals can navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience, approaching each day with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

Incorporating these pearls of wisdom into our daily lives enables us to cultivate balance and tranquility, even amid life's chaos. Let Franklin's sage counsel serve as a guiding light, illuminating our path toward inner peace and fulfillment.

Interested in Joining Freemasonry? Know the Status in Your Country

2024-04-23T13:33:53-04:00

If you're considering joining Freemasonry but live in a country where the government maintains tight control over civic institutions, it's essential to understand that Freemasonry is often not permitted to operate within such authoritative domains. There may be individuals attempting to recruit you, but it's crucial to be cautious (trust your instincts). If this sounds familiar, read on.

Below is a categorized list of countries where Freemasonry is either not officially recognized or banned. Seeking Masonic membership from these countries could get you frowned upon, fined, jailed, or worse.

Asia:

China: Freemasonry is officially banned in China, and any Masonic activity is prohibited.
Iran: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is banned in Iran.
Saudi Arabia: Freemasonry is prohibited in Saudi Arabia, and there are strict penalties for engaging in Masonic activities.
Qatar: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Qatar.
United Arab Emirates (UAE): Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in the UAE.
North Korea: Freemasonry is banned in North Korea, and any form of secret society or organization is heavily restricted.
Turkmenistan: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is banned in Turkmenistan.
Tajikistan: Freemasonry is banned in Tajikistan, and there are no Masonic lodges in the country.
Uzbekistan: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is banned in Uzbekistan.
Vietnam: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Vietnam.
Indonesia: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted.

Africa:

Egypt: Freemasonry is banned in Egypt, and there are no Masonic lodges operating openly in the country.
Morocco: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Morocco.
Algeria: Freemasonry is banned in Algeria, and any Masonic activity is prohibited.
Tunisia: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Tunisia.
Libya: Freemasonry is banned in Libya, and there are no Masonic lodges operating openly in the country.
Sudan: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Sudan.
Eritrea: Freemasonry is banned in Eritrea, and any form of secret society or organization is heavily restricted.
Ethiopia: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Ethiopia.
Somalia: Freemasonry is banned in Somalia, and any form of secret society or organization is heavily restricted.
Gambia: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Gambia.

Europe:

Russia: Freemasonry faced persecution and was banned during the Soviet era. While it's not explicitly banned today, Freemasonry still faces challenges and is not widely practiced openly.
Turkey: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Turkey.
Belarus: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Belarus.
Azerbaijan: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Azerbaijan.
Armenia: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Armenia.
Kyrgyzstan: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Kyrgyzstan.
Kazakhstan: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Kazakhstan.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Freemasonry is not officially recognized, and its practice is restricted in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Verification and Conclusion:
Things and perceptions can change, so it's important to verify the status of Freemasonry in your country. You can use resources like the list of Foreign Grand Lodges compiled by the United Grand Lodge of England. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and feel free to comment below if you think something is not accurate.

Does Masonry Make Good Men Better?

2024-03-26T17:17:08-04:00

From nothing, light.
From light, matter.
From matter, cells.
From cell, organism.
From organism, thought.
From thought... well, this is where man usually gets in trouble. What's the quality of his thoughts? What's the nature of his shadow? Who is he as the unseen? He's free to choose between good and bad; and, at the same time, hide his true intentions.

As Buddha once said, "There are three things you cannot hide—the sun, the moon, and the truth." And so it follows that what a man holds inside of him, over time, it will naturally come out and be exposed to light and he will be seen for the first time.

There's a saying among Masons that goes, "Freemasonry makes good men better," but not too many talks about is that it exposes the bad apples and merceneries for who they are. And because the world of Freemasonry is small — everyone knows everyone, a word can travel fast.

If someone joins Freemasonry with his true intentions hidden (ie looking to "expose" Masonry), this intention naturally comes out over time, and from that point, the hidden Mason is 'seen' in his natural state. From this moment, he has 3 choices: (1) Be humble, learn, adjust, and stick to the Craft; (2) quietly slip away and hope nobody will remember what he did; and (3) double down with lies and "expose" Freemasonry (the Leo Taxil way) and knowingly perpetuate the path of deceit.

I'm happy that so far, the Masons I've met are genuine. They may not be perfect, but they're true. There's nothing else on earth like Freemasonry, that bring communities together and helps expel darkness. In essence, Masonry doesn't just aim to make a good man better, it seeks to expose the truth. #thetiethatbinds #Freemasonry

The 2nd Coming of Christ?

2023-12-15T14:42:27-05:00

In the 🇵🇭, my birthplace, memories linger of a time before we all took a 'byte' out of the Forbidden Fruit of Knowledge, a.k.a. the Internet. Back then, the archetype of white surfer dudes with long blond hair and blue eyes seemed to ride the crest of the proverbial White Male Privilege wave. In those days, snake oil salesmen and enterprising faith healers would promise that they'd seen Jesus in person, describing him exactly as blond-haired and blue-eyed — now you're MESMERized... they then take your money away while showing compassion in their eyes (but laughing like a devil in the inside).

Rewind to the ghost of 300 years of European colonial rule, a chapter of Filipino history we often attribute to misconceptions about Jesus' appearance. Those colonizers brought not only their culture and beliefs but also an unintentional artistic interpretation of our beloved Jesus. I hesitate to lay blame; the European artists of the time likely had no blueprint for the real Jesus aesthetic. Consequently, the enduring image became one of a kind-looking, blond-haired, blue-eyed Jesus.

Yet, our evolving understanding, fueled by a knowledge surpassing our own (I'm talking AI), is reshaping this perception. It's beginning to solidify that Jesus might just resemble a Palestinian.

What if the "2nd Coming of Christ" isn't a solitary return, but a reemergence in his "final form" — a timeless message of pure Love?

Let's not take sides; after all, I count great friends from all walks. The devastating impact of war, especially on the vulnerable, is clear. Witnessing lifeless children day after day fuels a call for change.

Global leaders, spiritual guides, and, yes, even social media influencers, bear a shared responsibility to craft solutions. Continue entertaining, promoting, but also wield your influence to spark meaningful conversations. Let's find creative ways to shield innocent civilians, particularly mothers and children, from harm's way. #thetiethatbinds #palestine #christianity

The Feather of Truth

2023-08-26T19:11:57-04:00

The Feather of Ma'at (she's the personification of Truth and Justice) is an important ancient symbol that you should know about—if you want to live a happy life.

According to the ancient tradition, as the soul journeys through the afterlife, their heart will be placed on a scale against an ostrich feather. If the heart is as light as the Feather, the soul will be welcomed to the Field of Reeds, a place of eternal happiness. Otherwise, the soul will be devoured by a fearsome beast.

In a sense, they're saying that if you live your life in harmony with those around you, you'll feel light and at peace with yourself and everyone else. But if you live your life with wrongdoings and bad deeds due to vanity and avarice, your heart will be heavily burdened.

Nobody really knows if there's such a place as heaven or hell, but we can experience these things while we're still on this material existence. Do good and experience happiness, do bad (and it may make you happy for a brief moment), but you will suffer in the end.

As a gentle reminder of this lesson, we revive our Heart Light As A Feather collection beginning with this eco-friendly (fully certified) hoodie available in black and white. I personally redesigned the logo using the Square and Compasses to ensure good looks and excellent embroidery. Enjoy 10% OFF with discount code FEATHER when you order now—act fast because this promo ends at midnight tonight! Click this link to shop now!

FraternalTies Wooden Stamp Block (2014)

2023-06-05T22:43:14-04:00

This hand-carved wooden block is the stamp we used to print our Memento Mori logo on the certificates of our 2014 wooden watch collection. It was meticulously hand-carved by our designer, Bro. JP.

The block proudly displays our old crossbones logo, which we will be retiring this year to make way for our new logo. We are excited to announce that we are auctioning this one-of-a-kind item to support our fledgling Masonic regalia business, www.hirams.ca.

Our motivation to grow Hiram's stems from our observation that the quality of Masonic Regalia, particularly the Masonic apron, available in the market is steadily diminishing. Therefore, we have embarked on a journey to find the right suppliers, artisans, and manufacturers to partner with.

However, this pursuit has placed a significant financial burden on us as we endure countless trials and errors in search of the perfect partners. After two years of searching, we have finally discovered three key partners that we are delighted to work with. We now have access to excellent ethically sourced and high-quality lambskin, experienced embroiderers, and award-winning carvers. Nevertheless, we still require your support to continue funding this new endeavor.

You can help us by participating in our auction or by sharing this with any Freemason you know who values quality over quantity. To participate in the auction, please click on this link. We've included additional photos of the wood block below for your enjoyment.

What's in the mysterious box?

2023-03-09T22:31:17-05:00

So I was in the basement sorting out old and forgotten FraternalTies stuff. I need to figure out which things must go (to the trash) and which ones to keep. Every once in a while a rare gem shows up-like the content of this dusty Space Odyssey Monolith looking cardboard box.

"Paisley First Ed"

The moment I saw the first line in my own handwriting, I knew exactly what it means. But the next line momentarily mystified me. It says, "Wrong tip- Denver 5". I remember that in 2015 we made a custom lodge necktie for Denver Lodge No. 5, the oldest Masonic lodge in Denver, Colorado, but I still recall that the design is definitely not paisley.

Luxurious Silk Tie

I'm not really that big of a fan of using adjectives pertaining to luxury but I can't come up with other words to describe this necktie. Sure a bit of designer bias is probably there but it literally took me about 2 years of making small and incremental adjustments to the design. Each failed fabric swatch is a punch to the gut (and our pocket) but eventually we arrived at the perfect formula.

Here's one of the earliest fabric swatch that is a total failure.

Secrets Hidden in Plain Sight

At a glance, the tie looks like just a simple and well-made paisley tie. The looker will now it's not an average cheap tie because it exudes a luminous iridescent sheen especially at various angles. Upon closer inspection, one will peculiar symbols beginning with one (the Eye being the most obvious), and then two, and three... and so on.

"Mint Errors" on fabric?

In the world of numismatics, coins with mistakes are called "mint errors". This errors end up being the most sought-after because of their rarity. Following this logic, this "First ed." Masonic paisley tie is a true collector's item because of a particular error in weaving. Look closely and you'll see that the letter G in the centre of the Square and Compasses is reversed. While the collectors loved it, I was irked by it especially that it took us over a year of trial and error to arrive at this weave and we didn't notice the error until it was too late. Thankfully, only a small batch was made.

A One of a Kind

But one thing that makes this a genuine rare tie is, as mentioned on the box, it has the wrong tipping. The so-called tipping is the diamond shape are at the back of the widest tip of a necktie. Traditionally, and to save cost, this part is usually just a plain black piece of polyester. We usually have this part made with the same fabric as the rest of the tie (more expensive but worth it), and sometimes we put customized embroidery on it. Our manufacturer made a one-off mistake and made one of the first-edition paisley ties with a different tipping.

Denver Lodge No.5 Is Colorado's Oldest Masonic Lodge and we are proud to have made a few batches of custom silk ties for them. But this paisley tie is not made for Denver 5. Of the 100 1st edition paisley ties that were made, this particular one ended up with a Denver 5 tipping instead of being self-tipped (tipped with the same fabric as the rest of the tie).

This Ultra Rare FraternalTies Tie Can Be Yours!

We are putting this rare tie up for auction to help raise funds for Hiram's Regalia- a new business that Rechelle and I have dreamed of setting up many years ago. Our stated mission is "to enhance the Masonic Initiatic experience, one good man at a time." We aim to do this by supplying the Brother with only the best quality lambskin apron (and other regalia products) that we can make. By bidding on this, you are directly helping us achieve our mission.

>> Click this link to bid now. <<

Addendum

In case you're wondering what the rest of the Denver Lodge No. 5 necktie looks like, I found this image along with a Testimonial from W. Bro. Rossi.

Freemasonry in Canada Today

2023-03-02T12:40:32-05:00

I certainly can't speak for other Canadian Masonic lodges out there but based on what's going on with my lodge (Doric Lodge No. 316 in Toronto), I'd say that there is a resurgence in Freemasonry here in Canada.

Canadian Masonic Artists and Craftsmen

As a local artist and craftsman, this is good for our livelihood. In a time when everyone with internet access can get into the dropship business, the Freemason consumer is getting wary of buying Masonic products online. More attention is going back to original artist and creators who actually spend time honing their craft.

Sure our creations are not as cheap and mass produced as what can be bought from Alibaba or Amazon or that shameless "Masonic" store BricksMasons (they're IP thieves, not to mention that they dropship directly from China to you)⁠—what we lack in quantity, we make up for the time and passion that we put in our work.

Canadian Masonic Lodge

As the WM of my lodge, this is good for our lodge. For years (even before the pandemic), we suffered from dwindling membership. Forming a lodge was a struggle as we couldn't even form a quorum. The lockdown that followed made things more depressing but looking back now, it seems that the pandemic may have been the best thing that ever happened to us.

The extra time in our hands forced us to remain connected online by chat groups and we have gotten to know each other better. From the talks that we had, a new passion emerged and so we implemented many changes—from changing our almost 150yr old logo all the way to the way we run our banquet (see photo below).

We learned that setting up the banquet in such a cinematic way (thanks WB Stefano) really brings people in. Once more, this is good for local businesses because dressing up the banquet as such requires certain products and resources that can be provided by artists, chefs, and businesses within our own district.

Canadian Masonic Stickers

Talking about local business and Masonic merchandise, one of the things that Rechelle and I are proud to announce is the reintroduction of our stickers product line beginning with this nice 2"x2" holographic permanent stickers that is designed by us and made right here in Toronto by local hands. The design is inspired by the iconic Square and Compasses on the Canadian red maple leaf symbol that is used all throughout Canada for decades. A specific version of this design, as of last year, is also now the official logo of the Ontario Masons.

Unlike the cheap stickers from offshore, these stickers are made in compliance with Canadian manufacturing standards. The result is a high-quality product that is joy to look at. We took several photos of it from various angles to show how the colours shift depending on how the light hits the surface.

Where to buy the Canadian Masonic Stickers?

We produce in limited batches only but as of this writing we have quite a few of them. They are currently available in pack-of-seven (free-shipping). Click this link to access the product page.

Masonic Watch Review

2023-02-17T13:40:38-05:00

A Rugged Masonic Watch

It has been 3 years since I first put on my precious FraternalTies 357 Acacia watch. I have worn in almost every day since. It has served as my faithful timekeeper with all sorts of activities from lodge night to anything that I enjoy with my family from kayaking, to skateboarding, to hiking, to gardening, and even boxing!

Powered by my heart

The FraternalTies automatic is equipped with a 21-Jewel Japanese precision movement. It cannot do anything on its own but once charged with my own kinetic energy, I know I can count on its sharp timekeeping. The movement can keep accurate time between 24-48 hours. If I wear it once everyday, it will keep on running forever no batteries required.

Italian Leather Straps

I can't lie. I have a love-hate relationship with the straps. I love it because after 3 years of rugged use, it has developed a beautiful patina. I hate it because it tends to stain my white dress shirt especially during humid nights at lodge. I researched how to prevent leather from staining my clothes and I find that in my case, it is completely unavoidable- basically you have to keep it dry all the time. To avoid dye transfer to clothes is to stay dry and keep your leather surface from getting rained on, wet, or sweaty.

Marine-grade stainless steel case and genuine sapphire crystal

I probably won't wear it while scuba diving but it survived rainy seasons and swimming in the lake with me. The leather straps now looks seasoned (very handsome) because of the water abuse but the watch itself is impeccable and shows no signs of moisture buildup on the inside.

Conclusion

Designer bias aside, I am very happy and very satisfied with this watch. I continue to receive many compliments about it. People love the way the natural acacia face looks and how its color seems to shift depending on how the light is hitting the grain. We made only a hundred of these and they're long sold-out but one day we will make another acacia watch with the same automatic mechanism that we trust but with a different dial design.

33rd Degree Freemason Necktie

2023-02-16T18:19:22-05:00

What is a 33rd degree Master Mason?

When outsiders talk about 33rd degree Freemasons they are oftentimes unknowingly referring to one of the two main branches of mainstream Freemasonry. This branch is called the Scottish Rite. Some consider it more esoteric compared to the other branch which is the York Rite.

Is the 33rd Degree the Highest Degree in Masonry

The highest degree in Masonry, the so-called Sublime Degree is the 3rd Degree or Master Mason degree. The 33rd Degree is simply an honorary degree within the Scottish Rite.

What is the Scottish Rite?

The Scottish Rite was originally an obscure Masonic Rite in the mid-19th century to an international fraternity that it is now today. A controversial and influential figure, Albert Pike, is often credited as the man responsible for making the Scottish Rite well known within Masonic circles. Employing staged plays, they expand and continue the teachings derived from the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Degrees of Freemasonry which is known as Blue Lodge or Craft Lodge. (Photo credit: Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction)

How to join the Scottish Rite?

One has to be a Master Mason (3rd Degree) in order to join the Scottish Rite. The Lodge Master or the Secretary would usually know where to refer a Mason seeking admission to the Scottish Rite.

33rd Degree Scottish Rite Necktie

As of this writing, the Silver on Black Scottish Rite Necktie is available but in very limited quantities. It's made of high-quality natural silk that we personally select. Since it's Jacquard-woven, the fabric has a nice texture and produces a shiny ombré effect that shifts according to how the light hits it.

To purchase, please click here to access the product page.

Masonic Memes 2022

2023-01-05T18:56:17-05:00

I think most business owners will agree that 2022 had been a hell of a year—I mean, it's been a nightmare in terms of merchandise production. But instead of crying at the corner, we decided to control only the things we can control and put out more of that other thing that we're quite good at —I'm talking about our Masonic Memes.

Without further adieu, here are our Top 10 Masonic Memes:

1. The Freemason Starter Pack Meme. Too many Freemasons online found this meme so relatable that it stayed as a top post in Reddit r/freemasonry for a good time. Click the corresponding link to read the conversation it generated on Reddit (70+ comments), Facebook (200+ comments), Instagram (50+ comments).

2. The Undertaker meme became one of our most shared Masonic Memes of 2022! WMs and Secretaries alike love it! Click the corresponding link to read the conversation it generated on Reddit, Facebook, Instagram.

3. The self aware doge spewing painful truth! Too many can relate! Click the corresponding link to read the conversation it generated on Reddit, Facebook, Instagram.

4. The Masonic Entanglement meme is a painful reminder of what can become of a brother sometimes when moderation is non-existent. Click the corresponding link to read the conversation it generated on Reddit, Facebook, Instagram.

5. The Slap Meme slaps hard! Click the corresponding link to read the conversation it generated on Reddit, Facebook, Instagram.

6. The angry lady and the cool cat meme is definitely a top fave! Click the corresponding link to read the conversation it generated on Reddit, Facebook, Instagram.

7. Oh hi there, Spongebob! Click the corresponding link to read the conversation it generated on Facebook, Instagram.

8. If she only knew.

9. If she only knew part 2.

10. Oh the cold sweats!

More FraternalTies Masonic Memes below! enjoy the New Year!

I know it's just January but May the Fourth be with you all!

Doric Lodge No. 316 Ceremony of Investiture

2022-09-22T20:07:37-04:00

Congratulations to our officers and members! Thank you to all who came to support us! Thank you for having me as the WM once more.

Not your usual "Happy Labor Day" post

2022-09-05T12:58:19-04:00

Here's the thing about labor—it's hard. If executed without proper mentality, the laborer will quickly find it to be backbreaking, heartbreaking, and soul-crushing. He will quickly get burned out and will end up questioning why he does the things he previously professed he loves to do. He will then drop his working tools and walk away.

All of us, even the best of us, sometimes fall into this dark mental space where tired bodies and minds conspire to convince us that our effort is leading to nowhere. If you find yourself to be in this depressive bubble, I encourage you to read and absorb these three quotes from our Masonic Brothers who came before us.

“Associate yourself with men of good quality, if you esteem your own reputation; for 'tis better to be alone than in bad company.” - George Washington

We evolved to be social creatures and have the tendency to absorb and reflect the energy of those around us. If we have the misfortune of being surrounded by those miserable types, sooner or later we will find ourselves mirroring their miserable ways. If the noble pursuit of trying to influence them proves to be futile, it's better to save your energy for yourself and keep on doing the good work that you do and hope that one day they will wake up and 'see'.
"Continuous improvement is better than delayed perfection" -Mark Twain
At some points in our lives, we find ourselves postponing many important and great things due to a variety of reasons. Some of these reasons are truly valid such as in cases of emergencies but a lot of times we delay because we want it to be "perfect". There's something to be learned from software developers who release their programs even if it's not perfect. The way programmers do it is like this- write a program and release it as Version 1.0, let the people give it a go, identify the bugs, gather feedback, go back to the drawing board, and release Version 1.1. This process gets repeated ad infinitum with the program getting better and better with each release. The focus is on progress, not perfection.
"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Sometimes that feeling of being trapped in tiresome and monotonous labor is because we are blindly following whoever is in front of us. Like the proverbial sheep blindly following another sheep headed to someplace unsavory. One way to break out of that feeling of being contained is by doing something new keeping in mind that if we love the work that we do, work becomes play. When those around us see that we enjoy doing our labor, it will rub off on them and the natural tendency is they will follow suit.

See you all at the quarry.

Team up: Dominion Regalia and FraternalTies

2022-07-23T00:29:02-04:00

// This article was first posted on our Instagram page on July 6, 2022.

This is big news! Today marks the beginning of our partnership with The Oldest Masonic regalia manufacturer in Canada— Dominion Regalia Limited, established in 1881.

The goal of this partnership is to provide the best shopping experience for Freemasons looking to buy Masonic Regalia and other original Masonic merchandise.

This partnership between FraternalTies and Dominion Regalia was spearheaded by a couple of visionary senior Masons in Ontario who saw a tremendous potential in the joint venture. It's been in the making for a few months and finally it's official!

We are very excited to be working with a historic business that is Dominion Regalia! Stay tuned for more updates!

Fairbank Lodge No. 592 Regimental Style Necktie

2022-05-02T12:39:28-04:00

In April last year, we met with W. :M. : Iain J.Y. Mann to discuss a special Masonic Jacquard-woven silk necktie project for his lodge Fairbank Lodge No. 592 in Toronto, Canada. This is the result of that collaboration. A portion of each tie sold will go towards the Drive for Ukrainian Humanitarian Relief⁠—a Toronto Don Valley District Charity committee chaired by Brother Mann himself.

Fairbank Lodge 592 and Mother Kilwinning Lodge 0

Iain, Gaelic for John, was born in Kilwinning Scotland in 1963. He is a Freemason of 31 years and is currently on his 5th term as the Master of his lodge. It is also worth noting that Brother Iain is an affiliate member of Mother Kilwinning Lodge 0, his ancestral Lodge. The apron on the photo belonged to his grandfather and was passed on to him. Click this link to see more photos of Brother Iain and the Kilwinning apron.

A Brother, A Sportsman, A Soldier

Brother Mann (drummer above) is a 30-year Canadian Army veteran who served with the Airborne Regiment Special Service Force. He played hockey, rugby, soccer and baseball competitively. I believe he also took up boxing recently. He has played in pipe bands since he was 9 years old and has competed in the World Championships in Scotland many times. He considers it a privilege to have played with the Black Watch Pipes and Drums.

What's in the design?

The Fairbank Tie features a strong and masculine design. It is made of an alternating pattern of blue and gold stripes accentuated by textured patterns which, upon closer inspection, will become legible text and symbols (see below).

The Thistle

According to legend, an invading Norse army was attempting to sneak up at night upon a Scottish army's encampment. During this operation one barefoot Norseman had the misfortune to step upon a thistle, causing him to cry out in pain, thus alerting Scots to the presence of the Norse invaders.

The Masonic Emblem

The subtle Square and Compasses adorned with a wreath provide a nice texture to the tie.

Regimental Stripes

The tie is a beautiful alternating pattern of blue and gold stripes. The Masonic motto "Making Good Men Better" and Brother Iain's mother lodge "Fairbank Lodge 592" flanked by Doric columns are subtly visible on the blue stripes.

How to purchase?

This necktie is not available directly from our web store. To purchase, please email Brother Iain J.Y. Mann at kilwinning63@gmail.com with the subject line "Fairbank Tie" and indicate the number of neckties you would like to purchase. You may also call him directly at +1 (437) 999-7829. Please allow 5-7 business days handling time. Please see the pricing information below:

Price 1 BASIC | CAD $60 (approx. 47 USD) plus shipping - Your necktie will be shipped to you wrapped in a plastic sleeve and placed inside a bubble mailer. This is a perfect choice if you just want the tie plain and simple.
Price 2 PREMIUM | CAD $74 (approx. 57.75) plus shipping | Premium - Receive your tie expertly wax-sealed (gold colour thread and blue wax as shown in the photo below) inside a protective black box. The tie comes with a small packet of silica gel to protect the natural silk from moisture, a FraternalTies® sticker and a magnetic decal for your fridge or car. The careful packaging makes this option perfect for those looking to buy unique Masonic gifts for that special someone who would enjoy a careful gift presentation as much as enjoying the gift itself. The metal stamp and the wax that we use are made by Harry R. Burger, a Freemason and mechanical engineer based in New York, USA.

This is a photo of option 2.

Jose Rizal, the quasi-Masonic KKK, and the birth of Philippine Republic

2021-12-30T17:04:34-05:00

There is something about Freemasonry that attracts men who think differently. No wonder a lot of national heroes of various nations happened to be Freemasons. They fought for what they believed in even if it meant doing the ultimate sacrifice.

Every 30th of December, the Philippines celebrate Rizal Day, a national holiday commemorating the life and works of Brother Dr. José Rizal. He fought for religious and societal reformation with his pen. He was executed by the Spaniards via firing squad in 1896 125 years ago.

He served as the inspiration for the revolutionary quasi-Masonic organization named the "Kataastaasan, Kagalanggalangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan" or simply "Katipunan" (Brotherhood). It was also known by its abbreviation KKK— not THAT KKK obviously. The Brotherhood's primary goal was to gain independence from Spain through a revolution.

Brother General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first president of the Philippine republic declared, "The successful Revolution of 1896 was masonically inspired, masonically led, and masonically executed, and I venture to say that the first Philippine Republic of which I was its humble President, was an achievement we owe largely to Masonry and the masons." Aguinaldo himself designed the Philippine flag making it as #Masonic as possible.

To this day, Filipino lodges remain to be one of the most active lodges all over the world. A testament to Freemasonry's lasting legacy.

We Accept Crypto

2021-12-09T01:46:31-05:00

It took a fraud case that costs us more than US$5,000 before we actually seriously looked into this. In case you're curious what it's about, visit our Facebook and Instagram page and look for postings between December 4-8, 2021.

Rechelle and I were very hesitant to consider crypto at first because the concept was so foreign to us. We still have a lot to learn but the fastest way get a working knowledge about it is by doing it.

Let's see where this goes. :-)

We auctioned some of our earliest Masonic Ties

2021-12-09T00:43:38-05:00

If you're following us in social media you probably know the reason why we decided to auction our earliest Masonic ties in our own collection.

Anyway, here are some the winning bids.

10k Followers in Instagram!

2021-12-09T00:18:53-05:00

This is a milestone! Thank you for supporting us!

-JP and Rechelle Gomez (the FraternalTies Team)

"Freemasonry is Dead!"

2021-10-08T16:18:19-04:00

Absolutely not! Not because we can't draw a lodge* means the Gentle Craft is dead. Not because there has been some temporary modifications to the way we do things means our Brotherhood has died.

Death is defined as the permanent ending of vital processes in an entity. From my point of view, the lockdown due to the pandemic afforded us more time to practice Masonry outwardly through the life that we live outside of our halls (like the way it should be).

As the boxer goes to the gym to perform an endless grind of repetitive exercises, drills and technical footwork in hopes of becoming a better fighter when he finally steps in the ring- so does the sincere Mason goes to lodge to perform an endless grind of repetitive mental, verbal and technical footwork in hopes of becoming a Better Man when he steps in the outside world.

Repetition is key—just like how this article is littered with repetitive words and thoughts. Repetition leads to a realization, realization leads to either an enhancement or, in some cases, a change of thought. Our ritual Work, although as repetitive as it can be, can be humbling and exhilarating especially when performed with such technical precision. With that, I understand and sympathize with the Brethren who truly miss the points of fellowship and the social aspects of our Craft. But not simply because a boxer cannot go to the gym to train means that he is no longer a boxer and the art of sweet science has died.

Financially, I have nothing to gain from this lockdown. And because more and more people are working from home, less and less the neckties we sell. But if there's anything good that the pandemic has given us, it afforded us more opportunities to apply our knowledge of our Working Tools outside of the lodge. It allowed us time to acquire new hobbies and hone the existing ones—and during our quiet moments, connect with what the ancient philosophers refer to as the "inward man".

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day." –2 Corinthians 4:16

DISCLAIMER: This blog echoes the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of any Grand Lodge, Grand Jurisdiction, or any appendant organizations within Freemasonry.

*Some jurisdictions, based on the data available to them, have chosen to resume Masonic Labours and are allowing their members to form a lodge.

A Tribute to the Frontline Healthcare Workers

2021-09-13T18:00:01-04:00

Edit: First published on May 2020. Edited on September 2021.

A few weeks ago, The First Three Knocks Masonic podcast came to me if I can partner up with them on a special project. They want to sell shirts with 100% of the proceeds going to frontline health care workers- mainly for essential supplies such as masks, gloves, and disinfectants.

They want to have a logo that says "HAPPY TO MEET AGAIN" as an optimistic outlook on the current events. One of their hosts wrote, "Lodges are closed down and we are missing our brothers, but are 'happy to meet again' once this is all over."

Bro. Darko Zdravic from University Lodge No. 496 in Toronto is in charge of coordinating with charities. Bro. Zdravic is a trained Immunologist, Hematologist, and chairman of the Toronto West District Blood Donor Program. One of his current roles as an Immunologist is to develop a vaccine for COVID19 with the Provincial and Federal Government.

Design Breakdown

The Staff of Hermes Trismegistus

The defining feature of the artwork which I named "Ad Astra per Aspera" (Latin for “Through Adversity to the Stars”) is the caduceus and the Masonic Square and Compasses in Fellowcraft position. The caduceus is the staff carried by Hermes Trismegistus in Greco-Egyptian mythology. The Freemason's emblem is in 2nd Degree to symbolize ongoing Work.

Tetrahedron and the Sprig of Acacia

The legs of the compasses along with the staff form a Tetrahedron which symbolizes balance and stability. The human body has 5 parts- 1 head, 2 arms, and 2 legs; thus the Five Sprigs of Acacia adorning the emblem represent humankind. A visual way of saying “quintessential”.

Sacred Geometry

The hinge of the Compasses is formed by Seven Overlapping Circles (also known as the Flower of Life). In this usage, the seven circles represent the Seven Liberal Arts & Sciences. The Five Platonic Solids can be fit within the geometrical “Flower of Life”. It is also made took like the old Atomic Model to symbolize science. Leonardo da Vinci studied the Flower of Life and its mathematical properties.

How to Help

Be the first to know when the prints become available by subscribing to our newsletter (see form below) and by listening to the F3K podcast.

Lodge Mother Kilwinning

2021-08-15T18:24:58-04:00

It's Masonic nerd-out time! Have you heard of a Masonic Lodge called Mother Kilwinning No. 0?

Here's the Wikipedia entry: "Lodge Mother Kilwinning is a Masonic Lodge in Kilwinning, Scotland, under the auspices of the Grand Lodge of Scotland. It is number 0 (referred to as "nothing" and not zero) on the Roll, and is reputed to be the oldest Lodge not only in Scotland, but the world. It is thus styled The Mother Lodge of Scotland attributing its origins to the 12th Century, and is often called Mother Kilwinning."

Yesterday, Rechelle and I had the pleasure of meeting Armed Forces Veteran and 5th generation Freemason W.B. Iain J.Y. Mann. Brother Iain (Gaelic for John), is a member of Fairbank Lodge No. 592 in Toronto and an affiliate member of Mother Kilwinning Lodge 0, his ancestral Lodge. He showed us his great grandfather's MK0 apron and gave us permission to share photos of this historic gem with you. Enjoy!🌿🙏

Looking for Cinderello | Canada-based Skateboarder US 12 shoe size

2021-07-09T13:56:22-04:00

Are you a Canada-based skateboarder who rolls with US 12 shoes? Would you like to own* a brand new pair of FraternalTies low-cut Italian leather shoes for free?

We are testing the skatability of our signature kicks

and we're looking for someone who can help!

If you meet the criteria below, let us know by emailing brother@fraternalties.com and these awesome shoes could be yours!

Wears US 12 shoes and can comfortably ride a skateboard.
Can ollie, kick flip and heel flip.
Can capture and send to us photos and videos of the shoes in use.
Willing to be featured on our website and social media pages.
Noticed the asterisk? To own* the shoes means it's yours to use as long as it's skatable, the shoes must be sent back to us when it's completely destroyed. This will help us improve future designs.
Participant must be of good character.

If you're not the one we're looking for but knows someone who might fit the bill, please consider sharing this page to them. Feel free to comment below. Thank you!

The Seal of the Grand Lodge of the United States (satire)

2021-02-18T23:02:52-05:00

First of, there's no such thing as the Grand Lodge of the United States nor there is a United Grand Lodge of North America. Secondly, not because a Freemasonry lodge somewhere at some point in time used a certain symbol doesn't make it an exclusively Masonic symbol (all seeing eye, anyone?). Thirdly, the four men who actually contributed elements to the final design were NOT Freemasons— Brother Benjamin Franklin's ideas were not adopted at all.

I turned 40 not too long ago and at this point I have been a professional graphics designer for more than half my life. Having a Christian background and being a DeMolay/Freemason for a good amount of time allowed me to develop a strong fascination for heraldry, iconography, symbology and even emojis.💀

Two of the popular imageries that I really like can be found on the Great Seal of the United States. The obverse of the Great Seal depicts the national coat of arms of the United States, while the reverse depicts "A pyramid unfinished. In the zenith an eye in a triangle, surrounded by a glory, proper."

Together, the two sides of the Great Seal are a unique combination of images from nature (eagle, olive branch, stars, cloud, light rays, eye) and culture (pyramid, arrows, shield). But no one has an exclusive association with any of these symbols. —GreatSeal.com

On April Fools' Day last year, I announced on reddit r/Freemasonry that I was given the awesome honor and privilege to design the Official Seal of the Grand Lodge of the United States. I originally planned to design it with the pyramid with the all seeing eye an a globe icon background but the thought of conspiracy enthusiasts going crazy made me settle with a simple Square and Compasses in the middle. While a few missed the GL joke, most of the comments were actually quite encouraging.

During the recent President's Day (3 days ago) I began working on the version 2 of the so called "Great Seal of the Grand Lodge of the United States". I know it's still not a good idea to use the obverse side of the Great Seal but I don't want to settle with just a simple Square and Compasses either so I worked on the reverse side instead. Today I finally finished and here's the result.

Here's a detailed look:

In case you missed some of the elements, look for the sprig of acacia, chisel, the text on the ribbon, and the forget me not flowers.

Like the work? Consider supporting us by purchasing our merch. Thank you for reading!

Click here to get your Seal of the GL of the US satire mug. Available in 11oz and 15oz.

14 Presidents of the United States who were Freemasons

2021-02-15T16:28:57-05:00

Today is George Washington's Birthday*. Did you know that 14 out of the 45 persons who have served as President of the United States are known to have been Freemasons? Most of them good men worthy of being remembered; but as the old saying about a few bad apples goes- there's one in every bunch.

“We are all imperfect. We can not expect perfect government. ” ― William Howard Taft

*February 22nd is his actual birthday but we celebrate President's Day every 3rd Monday of February thanks to the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1971.

Without further ado, here's our list of presidents of the United States who were Freemasons.

George Washington—1st President of the United States

Initiated on November 4, 1752 in Fredericksburgh Lodge No. 4, Fredericksburg, Virginia. Elected Worshipful Master on December 20, 1788.

"It is better to offer no excuse than a bad one."

Legacy

George Washington is also known as the "Father of His Country." He served as the first president of the United States and commanded the Continental Army during the American Revolution. He presided over the convention that drafted the U.S. Constitution.

James Monroe—5th president of the United States

Initiated on November 9, 1775 in Williamsburg Lodge No. 6, Williamsburg, Virginia at the age of 17 while he studied at the College of William & Mary.

"A little flattery will support a man through great fatigue."

Legacy

James Monroe is viewed by history as one of the most qualified men ever to assume the presidency. He is well known as a great compromiser- his first term as president is accordingly remembered as the "Era of Good Feelings."

Andrew Jackson—7th president of the United States

Member of St. Tammany (later Harmony) Lodge No. 1, Nashville, Tennessee. Elected Grand Master of Tennessee on October 7, 1822 and served until October 4, 1824.

"One man with courage makes a majority."

Legacy

Andrew Jackson founded the Democratic Party and squarely set the Executive Branch on the level with Congress in terms of power and ability to shape law and government policies. He supported individual liberty instituted policies that resulted in he forced migration of Native Americans. To this day, his legacy is still awash in controversy.

James K. Polk—11th President of the United States

Initiated on June 5, 1820 in Columbia Lodge No. 31, Columbia, Tennessee.

"The Presidency is no bed of roses."

Legacy
James Polk is chiefly known for extending the territory of the United States through the Mexican–American War.

James Buchanan—15th president of the United States

Initiated on December 1l, 1816 in Lodge No. 43, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Appointed District Deputy Grand Master for the Counties of Lancaster, Lebanon and York in 1824.

"What is right and what is feasible are two different things."

Legacy

James Buchanan was an honest and skillful politician. However, many consider him as one of the worst presidents in American history. During his administration, the Union broke apart, and when he left the office, civil war threatened.

Andrew Johnson—17th president of the United States

Initiated on May 5, 1851 in Greenville Lodge No. 119, Greenville, Tennessee.

"Let them impeach and be damned."

Legacy

Andrew Johnson did everything he could to undermine the legacy of his predecessor—Abraham Lincoln. He vetoed so many bills he became known as "The Veto President". He is also known for being one of the three presidents to be impeached.

James A. Garfield—20th president of the United States

Initiated on November 19, 1861 in Magnolia Lodge No. 20, Columbus, Ohio and raised on November 22, 1864 in Columbus Lodge No. 30. Joined Garrettsville Lodge No. 246, Garrettsville, Ohio in 1866 and was its Chaplain for the years 1868-69. Charter Member of Pentalpha Lodge No. 23, Washington, D.C.

"The truth will set you free, but first it will make you miserable."

Legacy

James Garfield advocated agricultural technology, an educated electorate, and civil rights for African Americans. He was the second president to be assassinated after Abraham Lincoln.

William McKinley—25th president of the United States

Initiated on May 1, 1865 in Hiram Lodge No. 21, Winchester, Virginia. Joined Canton Lodge No. 60, Canton, Ohio in 1867. Charter member of Eagle (later William McKinley) Lodge No. 431, also in Canton.

"Half-heartedness never won a battle."

Legacy

William McKinley led the nation to victory in the Spanish–American War, raised protective tariffs to promote American industry, and kept the nation on the gold standard in a rejection of the expansionary monetary policy of free silver. He was the third president to be assassinated after Abraham Lincoln.

Theodore Roosevelt—26th president of the United States

Initiated on January 2, 1901 in Matinecock Lodge No. 806, Oyster Bay, New York.

“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are."

Legacy

Theodore Roosevelt is widely regarded as the first modern president of the United States. He was an environmentalist and progressive social reformer who laid the groundwork for the modern Democratic party. He dramatically expanded the system of national parks and national forests during his term. The Teddy Bear was invented in his honor.

William H. Taft—27th president of the United States

Made a Mason at Sight on February 18, 1909 in Kilwinning Lodge No. 356, Cincinnati, Ohio

“Don't write so that you can be understood, write so that you can't be misunderstood.”

Legacy

As U.S. president from 1909 to 1913 and chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1921 to 1930, William Howard Taft became the only man in history to hold the highest post in both the executive and judicial branches of the U.S. government.

Warren G. Harding | 29th president of the United States

Initiated on June 28, 1901 in Marion Lodge No. 70, Marion, Ohio. Raised on August 27, 1920 in that Lodge.

"I am not fit for this office and never should have been here.”

Legacy
Warren Harding is considered by most historians as one of America's worst presidents. His legacy is infused with scandal and corruption.

Franklin D. Roosevelt—32nd president of the United States

Initiated on October 11, 1911 in Holland Lodge No. 8, New York City. Made Honorary Grand Master of the Order of DeMolay on April 13, 1934.

“I ask you to judge me by the enemies I have made.”

Legacy

Franklin Roosevelt led the U.S. through a depression and a world war. He created numerous programs to provide relief to the unemployed and farmers while seeking economic recovery with the National Recovery Administration and other programs. He also instituted major regulatory reforms related to finance, communications, and labor, and presided over the end of Prohibition.

Harry S. Truman—33rd president of the United States

Initiated on February 9, 1909 in Belton Lodge No. 450, Belton, Missouri. First Worshipful Master of Grandview Lodge No. 618, Grandview, Missouri in 1911. Elected Grand Master of Missouri on September 25, 1940 and served until October 1, 1941. Received the 33rd Degree on October 19, 1945. Made Honorary Grand Master of the Order of DeMolay on May 18, 1959.

"The reward of suffering is experience."

Legacy

Due to the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Truman was thrust into the presidency virtually overnight and had to begin making difficult decisions. In his first months in office, he dropped the atomic bomb on Japan, ending World War II.

Gerald Ford—38th president of the United States

Initiated on September 30, 1949 in Malta Lodge No. 465, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Passed on April 20, 1951 and raised on May 18 of that year in Columbia Lodge No. 3, Washington, D.C. Received the 33rd Degree on September 26, 1962. Made Honorary Grand Master of the Order of DeMolay in April 1975.

"Tell the truth, work hard, and come to dinner on time."

Legacy

Gerald Ford is America's first unelected president. He presided over the worst economy in the four decades since the Great Depression. In one of his most controversial acts, he granted a presidential pardon to President Richard Nixon for his role in the Watergate scandal.

The Pain of Transformation

2021-01-07T14:00:29-05:00

I get my news from a variety of sources, one of them reddit. Yesterday, I Learned from /r/TIL that if a sea sponge (Phylum Porifera) is forced through a sieve to disintegrate it down to its cellular level, those cells, if left alone in its natural environment, will recombine into a sponge again.

Isn't that the most amazing thing? It's almost as if a Star Trek writer penned it. I could have never imagined a living creature capable of such a seemingly supernatural feat!

But as the old Reddit adage goes- the real stuff is always in the comments. I learned from a commenter that pretty much the same thing happens with a creature that is quite familiar and very popular among us land dwellers- I'm talking about the majestic Monarch Butterfly.

Reddit user u/Blockacheese wrote, "The article says that sponges are the only animal that can reassemble after disintegration, but when a monarch caterpillar forms a chrysalis it completely disintegrates into a goop." Unfortunately, this hidden gem of a comment garnered a mere 2 upvotes and did not see the light of day. I did a quick research to see if there's any truth to this and this is what I found.

This How Stuff Works article described it best. "The transformation itself is amazing. Think of it as recycling -- if you drop a plastic bottle off in the recycling bin, it can be melted down into an entirely different shape. This is what happens inside the chrysalis. Much of the body breaks itself down into imaginal cells, which are undifferentiated -- like stem cells, they can become any type of cell. The imaginal cells put themselves back together into a new shape. A few parts of the body, such as the legs, are more or less unchanged during this process."

The esoterically inclined Freemason can easily align this peculiar transformation process with a plethora of meaningful symbolisms such as the ouroboros devouring itself, the rising phoenix, and even the trendy memento mori.

I think the topic of Transformation is a fitting topic in lieu of yesterdays shocking events that happened at the U.S. Capitol. A dark episode that exposed painful facts about us humans in general. I like to think that even though America and democracy may seem to be breaking apart, the upheaval is but a necessary process in her transformation journey. Out of this chaos will emerge a new way of thinking further refining the democratic system for the better, at least we hope.

To our American brothers and sisters, I can offer nothing more than to say relax and sit tight. Remember that cooler heads will prevail and that violence leads to more suffering on both sides.

With that I leave you with some of my previous works that I think are relevant to the events that are continuing to unfold. Have faith.