I was born in antiquity in the ancient days when men first dreamed of God. I have been tried through the ages and found true. The crossroads of the world bear the imprint of my feet and the cathedrals of all nations mark the skill of my hands. I strive for beauty and for symmetry. In my heart is wisdom and strength and courage for those who ask. Upon my altars is the Book of Holy Writ, and my prayers are to the One Omnipotent God. My sons work and pray together, without rank or discord, in the public mart and in the inner chamber. By signs and symbols I teach the lessons of life and of death and the relationship of man with God and of man with man. My arms are widespread to receive those of lawful age and good report who seek me of their own free will. I accept them and teach them to use my tools in the building of men, and thereafter, find direction in their own quest for perfection so much desired and so difficult to attain. I lift up the fallen and shelter the sick. I hark to the orphan's cry, the widow's tears, the pain of the old and destitute. I am not church nor party nor school, yet my sons bear a full share of responsibility to God, to country, to neighbor and to themselves. They are freemen, tenacious of their liberties and alert to lurking danger. At the end I commit them as each one undertakes the journey beyond the vale into the glory of everlasting life. I ponder the sand within the glass and think how small is a single life in the eternal universe. Always have I taught immortality, and even as I raise men from darkness into light, I am a way of life. I Am Freemasonry.
I'm a Mason and;
I believe firmly in the power, wisdom, and goodness of the Almighty God.
I believe in my country, my fellow man, and myself.
I believe we are here in our various roles for a purpose and not by chance.
I believe that Masonry has been in existence through the ages for a purpose and that it will remain a strong force for good as far into the future as man will go, and I have confidence in that future.
I believe that the teachings of Masonry parallel those found in the Great Book of Life so closely that no conflict between the two can exist.
I believe our ancient customs have proven their worth and value and are as sound today as ever before and will withstand the test of the future.
I believe Masonry can be as good as its members want it to be, and that we will all be better men and our fraternity, our country, and our world will be better for our having passed this way.
I believe we have the opportunity as Masons and as men of good will to move to new heights in every area of life as we study and act upon our high principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth.
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