On Being Present

I don’t know how my father did it.  He was at every practice for my athletics, and even coached a few of my teams before high school.  He was at every Indian Guides meeting (he was our Chief), at every Boy Scout meeting, every camping trip we took, even the weeklong Colorado river canoe trips with his bad back and all.  He came to every violin and viola recital, every concert, every school event with open houses and parents nights. I don’t know how he did it. 

He worked a full-time job as a Phd in nuclear science that demanded an intense workload. He still found time to teach me carpentry, gardening, house maintenance, mathematics, chemistry, English grammar, and philosophy. He did all the big things too. Weddings, Christenings, graduations etc. I don’t know how he did it. 

I have two brothers and a sister; he was there, doing the same for them. He sold girl scout cookies with my sister. He went to her concerts, her school events, and her graduations. 

I don’t know how he did it. Or do I?

There were times that I had hoped he didn’t come to some of those events, so that I could goof off or misbehave just a bit. I did not appreciate it then; in fact, I was somewhat irate about it. Good Lord can’t I do something without him having to be there every time!!  I don’t know how he could do that to me!

Of course, looking back, I am in awe of how he did it. I have come to realize over the years how difficult it is to not only attend all those events and functions but to be present in the home. Fortunately, my father is still alive, 90 years old this year, and I have told him how amazing his presence meant to me now and that I was truly sorry for being such a trial for him in my youth. 

His presence in my life is a major part of who I am today and who I continue to hope to be. I am constantly distracted by phone use, computers, emails, texts, calls, television, chores, etc.  I have to make a very conscious effort to place in order God, family, and my fellow man. (And, of course, all this while following the World Champion Dodgers!)  

Presence and mindfulness are core to being a Freemason. I found this to be helpful when contemplating some of the reasons that I feel a belonging in our Lodge.

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Mindfulness and Freemasonry

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Focus and Attention:
Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, which can be helpful in various aspects of life, including Masonic rituals and discussions.

Self-Reflection:
Being present allows for deeper self-reflection and understanding of one's thoughts, feelings, and actions, which can be valuable for personal growth and moral development, core tenets of Freemasonry.
 

Connection and Community:
Mindfulness can foster stronger connections with others, as it allows for more attentive and empathetic interactions, which is important for building a strong Masonic lodge community.

Overcoming Distractions:
In a world full of distractions, mindfulness can help Masons stay focused on their values and goals, both within and outside the lodge.

Embracing the Present:
Mindfulness encourages Masons to appreciate the present moment and to find joy in the simple things, which can enhance their overall well-being and experience of Freemasonry.