Masonic Education

GRANDPA'S UNIFORMS

Bruce G. Chabot, 32*

   In this month of June, associated with Fathers' Day, I always think of what I learned from my father and grandfather, as I'm sure that many other Masons do as well.  Some learned about Freemasonry from their forebears, and this surely included principals by which to live their lives.  These lessons may have been verbally specific or, more likely, simple teachings by example from Brethren in the Fraternity and from one's own father or grandfather on to be a good man.

   While I learned from my father how to be a good citizen and a loving family man, I also got from him something different; that is, I inherited memories of my grandfather.  Though my grandfather is now with the Supreme Architect of the Universe, when he was alive on this earth and I knew him, he was the most kind and generous grandpa.  One of the things I admire most about him was his uniforms.

   Grandpa wore many different uniforms over the course of his long life.  First, he was an enlisted sailor in World War II. I Have a beautiful photo of him in his dress blues.  From his military service, I learned that I should be a patriot and glad to serve my country, giving my all for it, if so required.  After that, he worked as a mail carrier in the Postal service.  Again, he was happy to serve others by delivering to them their letters from loved ones, and to send on from them the information they needed to communicate to far away places.  I vividly remember his leaving the house each morning in his mailman's uniform, going out to help folks keep in touch.

   He retired form the Post Office, and this time took part-time work as an armored-car driver.  Again he got a uniform and went to work helping care for people's  money.  It seemed to me that he always wanted to be productive and to wear a uniform that signified to the world his willingness to help.  He just constantly served his community in the military service, the postal service, and the security industry.  His was a life of service to everyone, whether he knew them or not.  Of course, he also served us, his family, by being an example of gentleness, love and support.

   When I was a lad, my father and I followed grandpa's example by getting into our own uniforms, those of the Boy Scouts, so we could learn to improve ourselves and to be a service to people.  Eventually, I too, would serve in the Navy, as chaplain, but that is another story.

   My point is that my grandfather taught me by example that a good way to be an individual is to belong to something greater than one's self, and to identify with other good men of decent principles, as Masons do.  His enduring lesson is that a man should be of service to society that strive to make this world a better place by helping people in whatever way he can.

   Grandpa served with humility.  He was never proud, though I am proud of him and my father.  They taught me to serve others out of charity, and that lesson led me to join the Masonic Fraternity.

   Happy Fathers' Day to all!!