The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast | Created by a Freemason for those interested in the Study of Freemasonry and the Art of Self Improvement (Juan Sepulveda)
Explorez tous les épisodes de The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast | Created by a Freemason for those interested in the Study of Freemasonry and the Art of Self Improvement
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 May 2022 | Where have I been? | Did I leave Freemasonry? | 00:25:00 | |
Hey Juan, where have you been? You may have been wondering why hasn't there been an episode of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast in such a long time. Did I hang up my Masonic Apron? Did I turn in my Masonic Regalia and walked away from the Fraternity? In short, No. I never left. In this candid episode, I open up about why I took an extended hiatus, what I decided to focus on, and what are my plans for this show in the future. Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. Connect with The Winding Stairs here: We hope we have earned your Subscription If you would like to support our efforts to help men become 21st century gentlemen, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. Thank you! Executive Producer: Producers: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level) | |||
| 14 Dec 2016 | Blue Lightning | A Conversation with Bro. Chris Hodapp | 00:35:40 | |
Blue Lightning | A Conversation with Bro. Chris HodappOn this episode of The Winding Stairs, we tackle a very contentious topic, One Day Classes. I recently asked The Winding Stairs Facebook Group Members "What is your opinion about One Day Classes in Freemasonry?" and the result was shocking. Not only did I discover that the majority of respondents had a negative opinion regarding One Day Classes, but many held some sort of animosity towards Brothers who have joined the fraternity in this manner. Dismayed by this negativity, I contacted Brother Chris Hodapp, author of Freemasons for Dummies, to learn more one-day classes, their effectiveness, and how Brothers should handle discussions about this topic. In this candid conversation, you will learn:I hope that you find this episode edifying. | |||
| 31 May 2022 | Meeting on the Level | Sitting at separate tables | 00:26:19 | |
What does it mean to meet on the level? It means that regardless of your economic, social, or religious background when you meet with other Brothers, you are equals. As Freemasons, we are called to regard the entirety of the human race as One Family. Therefore, whether we are meeting at Lodge, or out in the world employing our usual vocations, we are to treat all members of the human race as if they were our own family. In this episode of The Winding Stairs. I will share with you some tips that will make this important lesson easier to follow. Equipment used: Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. Connect with The Winding Stairs here: We hope we have earned your Subscription If you would like to support our efforts to help men become 21st century gentlemen, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. Thank you! Producers: Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level) | |||
| 25 Sep 2019 | Masonic Education | Start Small | 00:25:32 | |
Mentioned in this episode:
Support for The Winding Stairs Freemasonry PodcastThis program is made possible in part by the generous support of our exclusive group of supporters on Patreon.comIn this episode, we would like to extend a special thanks to:
Your support helps us share more Light with Brothers around the world. Thank you!Look what our Supporters have Unlocked!
When you choose to join our exclusive group of supporters, you will gain access to behind-the-scenes footage of our creative process, Bonus Content, early access to some episodes, and closer collaboration with the Brothers behind this program. For details of the benefits we’ve reserved only for you and to learn more about this fun and fulfilling opportunity, visit: How can you support our program?If you found this episode edifying, please consider supporting our show by choosing any of these options…
Regardless of the way in which you choose to support our show, Thank you. MusicSome of our music was provided by the amazingly talented Billy Mays III | Infinite Third. Check out his music by visiting https://music.infinitethird.com/ | |||
| 20 Aug 2019 | A Freemason and a Gentleman | 3 easy tips to really make a difference | 01:08:27 | |
Is a Freemason a Gentleman?It is said that Freemasonry takes good men and makes them better. When applied effectively, any man who follows the tenets of Freemasonry will begin to resemble more and more what we call a gentleman. But, are all Masons gentlemen? Of course not. Just like not all religious people are saints. However, if we are putting to practice what we learn in Freemasonry, we are surely on our way to being regarded as gentlemen.On this episode of The Winding Stairs, I share 3 easy-to-implement tips that can help us really make a difference in our lives and behave more like gentlemen.
Bonus: I will give you a sneak peek at my podcast called "The Gentlemen's Brotherhood". Although not a Masonic podcast, it shares with my other programs the desire to help men become better. I hope you enjoy this episode. Mentioned in this episode:Support for The Winding Stairs Freemasonry PodcastThis program is made possible in part by the generous support of our exclusive group of supporters on Patreon.com
Your support helps us share more Light with Brothers around the world. Thank you!Look what our Supporters have Unlocked !
When you choose to join our exclusive group of supporters, you will gain access to behind-the-scenes footage of our creative process, Bonus Content, early access to some episodes, and closer collaboration with the Brothers behind this program. For details of the benefits we’ve reserved only for you and to learn more about this fun and fulfilling opportunity, visit: How can you support our program?If you found this episode edifying, please consider supporting our show by choosing any of these options…
Regardless of the way in which you choose to support our show, Thank you. MusicSome of our music was provided by the amazingly talented Billy Mays III | Infinite Third. Check out his music by visiting https://music.infinitethird.com/ | |||
| 22 Nov 2022 | Politics and Religion in Freemasonry with The Traveling Brothers | 00:27:48 | |
Politics and Religion are a prohibited topic inside a Masonic Lodge during their meetings. But why? It is no mystery that the topics of Politics and Religion can be incendiary and cause a lot of conflict among people. But how come a society that professes to be able to keep their passions within due bounds restrain from some of the topics that could best test that self-control? In this episode of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, I am joined by three Brothers of varied religious and political views to discuss this very puzzling feature of Freemasonry. Connect with us! Connect with our guest Andrew Rizzitello TikTok- [https://www.tiktok.com/@thewindingstairs](https://www.tiktok.com/@thewindingstairs "") We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: Thank you! Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): | |||
| 13 Sep 2022 | Widows Mijo | Conspiracy Theories, Freemasonry, and TikTok Part 2 | 00:38:10 | |
| 29 Dec 2016 | Know Thyself | A Conversation with Bro. Michael Schiavello | 00:39:13 | |
Do you know yourself? Really, think about it... Do you really know yourself? http://www.TheWindingStairs.com/KnowThyselfBook I had the pleasure of sitting with Bro. Michael "The Voice" Schiavello to speak about the proper way to use the lessons of Freemasonry (What some may call the Secrets of Freemasonry) to improve one's life. The lessons that have been part of Freemasons for centuries have left an indelible mark in our society, and to incorporate those lessons into our lives should be one of our top priorities. But, why? Listen in on this conversation and open your mind to getting to know yourself better and unlock the potential within you to live your best life today. Are you on Facebook? Subscribe to our channel to stay informed of other stimulating conversations with men who have made the lessons of Freemasonry a part of their lives and be a witness to the great power behind these timeless lessons. To listen to our Masonic Podcast and to see our growing collection of Masonic Art and Apparel, visit: http://www.TheWindingStairs.com | |||
| 15 Jul 2019 | Meaningful Lodge Experience | A Conversation with Bro. Manny Lozada | 00:35:24 | |
How does a Meaningful Lodge Experience look like? When you first set foot into a stated meeting as a Master Mason, was the experience everything you expected it to be? Do you think that your Lodge's meetings have room for improvement? On this episode of The Winding Stairs, I sit down with Bro. Manny Lozada of Orange Blossom Lodge No. 80 in Sunny Kissimmee, Florida. We had a conversation about how we can make our Lodge meetings more memorable and meaningful. Listen as we share some small and easy to implement improvements that can have a big impact long term. We hope you find this episode edifying. Support for The Winding Stairs Freemasonry PodcastThis program is made possible in part by the generous support of our exclusive group of supporters on Patreon.com In this episode we would like to extend a special thanks to:
Your support helps us share more Light with Brothers around the world. Thank you. Join our Exclusive Group of Supporters
When you choose to join our exclusive group of supporters, you will gain access to behind-the-scenes footage of our creative process, early access to some episodes, and closer collaboration with the Brothers behind this program. For details of the benefits we’ve reserved only for you and to learn more about this fun and fulfilling opportunity, visit: Patreon.com/TheWindingStairsSupportIf you found this episode edifying, please consider supporting our show by choosing any of these options…
Regardless of the way in which you choose to support our show, Thank you. Special ThanksWe are fortunate to work alongside some amazing Brothers who help make this content possible for you. I would like to personally thank my podcast team for their valuable work. Music Some of our music was provided by the amazingly talented Billy Mays III | Infinite Third. Check out his music by visiting https://music.infinitethird.com/ | |||
| 20 Dec 2016 | 22 Months | A Conversation with Bro. Jon Ruark | 00:37:42 | |
22 Months | A Conversation with Bro. Jon RuarkOn this episode of The Winding Stairs, we finalize our conversation about One Day Classes by confronting our opinion with hard facts. Bro. Jon Ruark conducted a comprehensive survey of Freemasonry Membership and participation for this very purpose. On this episode, we will discuss reasons why One Day Classes may not work, When are ODCs appropriate and what can be done to increase participation and a sense of satisfaction from the members of the Craft.I hope that you find this episode edifying. | |||
| 30 Aug 2022 | Masonic cave degree tennessee 2022 | Masonic Traveling | 00:56:45 | |
The cave degree in tennessee is a Master Mason Degree performed inside a natural cave in the mountains of Tennessee. Brothers from all over the country (and other countries) travel to Kingston Tennessee every year to take part in this memorable Masonic Degree. After hearing about the Cave Degree in Tennessee for many years, I finally decided to go and joined a group of Brothers from my jurisdiction to make this amazing Masonic pilgrimage to the Cave. Connect with us! We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: Thank you! Producers (Earl Level): Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. | |||
| 19 Jul 2022 | Freemasonry on the Moon | 00:10:12 | |
Did you know that the first words uttered by Man from the surface of the moon were not the ones most people think? The first words, as documented by NASA’s audio files, were “Contact Light”. These words were uttered by astronaut “Buzz” Aldrin. The irony of these words is that, not only was this the first time humans contacted the surface of another heavenly body, but it was the first time Freemasonry made physical contact with the moon. Among the personal items that Buzz Aldrin brought with him on this historic flight, he brought a Masonic Flag. Yes, the second man to walk on the surface of the moon was a Freemason. This episode features an exploration into the presence of Freemasonry on the moon through the efforts of Brother Edwin Buzz Aldrin and the subsequent presence of the moon in Freemasonry through the establishment of Tranquility Lodge No. 2000 and the various artifacts brought back from the moon. Let’s explore the connection between Freemasonry and the Moon and how these events set in motion the future establishment of the First Masonic Lodge on the surface of the moon. All that and more on this episode of The Winding Stairs These are exciting times for Science! For months, astronomy enthusiasts have been excitedly awaiting the release of the first photos from the James Webb Space Telescope. A $10 Billion Dollar project to put the largest and most capable telescope out in Space. There are two primary reasons why every Freemason in the world should be excited about this event. 1. As Masons we are encouraged to study Astronomy (We answer why in this episode) and 2. This telescope was named after Brother James Webb… A Freemason. Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. Connect with The Winding Stairs here: We hope we have earned your Subscription If you would like to support our efforts to help men become 21st century gentlemen, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. Thank you! Producers: Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level) | |||
| 28 Aug 2019 | Freemasonry Down Under | The Lost Interview | 00:28:12 | |
Freemasonry Down Under | The Uniqueness of Australian MasonryFreemasonry down under may be slightly different than what you may think. The structure of the organization is very interesting in a way that allows for the ritual to be separate from the administrative side of Masonry. For example, Victoria Freemasons have a CEO who handles the business side of the organization. Interestingly enough, in 2016 this male-only organization was led by a woman. In this episode of The Winding Stairs, I share with you an interview that I had thought I had lost forever. After almost having to hire a cyber forensics team and after many hours of editing, I was able to restore this conversation about how Freemasonry is practiced in Australia. I hope you enjoy this insight.
Mentioned in this episode:
Support for The Winding Stairs Freemasonry PodcastThis program is made possible in part by the generous support of our exclusive group of supporters on Patreon.com
Your support helps us share more Light with Brothers around the world. Thank you!Look what our Supporters have Unlocked !
When you choose to join our exclusive group of supporters, you will gain access to behind-the-scenes footage of our creative process, Bonus Content, early access to some episodes, and closer collaboration with the Brothers behind this program. For details of the benefits we’ve reserved only for you and to learn more about this fun and fulfilling opportunity, visit: How can you support our program?If you found this episode edifying, please consider supporting our show by choosing any of these options…
Regardless of the way in which you choose to support our show, Thank you. MusicSome of our music was provided by the amazingly talented Billy Mays III | Infinite Third. Check out his music by visiting https://music.infinitethird.com/ | |||
| 05 Aug 2019 | Illuminati Mysteries Revealed | A Conversation with Bro. Josef Wages | 00:24:57 | |
Although pop culture has a very twisted idea of what The Order of the Illuminati really is or was, there is scholarly work being done today by prominent historian and researchers. Fortunately, some of these professionals are Brothers and have done amazing work at documenting this history and revealing some of the mysteries that tie it to Freemasonry. In this episode of The Winding Stairs, we have a conversation with Brother Josef Wages to discuss his scholarly work on dusting off the details behind Adam Weishaupt's extensive work. Brother Josef is the author of "The Secret School of Wisdom: The Authentic Rituals and Doctrines of The Illuminati" and was heavily involved in the research for the documentary by Brother Johnny Royal, Illuminated Movie. Support for The Winding Stairs Freemasonry PodcastThis program is made possible in part by the generous support of our exclusive group of supporters on Patreon.com
Your support helps us share more Light with Brothers around the world. Thank you!Look what our Supporters have Unlocked!
When you choose to join our exclusive group of supporters, you will gain access to behind-the-scenes footage of our creative process, Bonus Content, early access to some episodes, and closer collaboration with the Brothers behind this program. For details of the benefits we’ve reserved only for you and to learn more about this fun and fulfilling opportunity, visit: How can you support our program?If you found this episode edifying, please consider supporting our show by choosing any of these options…
Regardless of the way in which you choose to support our show, Thank you. MusicSome of our music was provided by the amazingly talented Billy Mays III | Infinite Third. Check out his music by visiting https://music.infinitethird.com/ | |||
| 09 Aug 2022 | How to have Masonry Family Balance | Happy wife, Happy Masonic Life | 00:27:46 | |
How does a man achieve Masonry family balance? The last thing you want to hear from your wife is, "Again? Are you going to be in Lodge every single night?”. You know about the cable tow, you know that Family and Vocation come first. Unfortunately, there are many Brothers who ignore the cautionary tale and put Freemasonry above all else. Many times at the expense of their relationships. Don’t worry, I know you love your Lady and I know you love being a Freemason. There is no reason why you can’t have both. Connect with us! We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: Thank you! Producers (Earl Level): Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. | |||
| 07 Jun 2022 | Act by the Plumb | How Freemasonry builds upright men | 00:21:56 | |
In order for a structure to be soundly built, it has to rest upon a solid level foundation. Otherwise, the higher it rises, the more unstable it becomes. In Freemasonry, we stand before our Brothers as an Upright Man and are instructed to act as such. Today, we will discuss what it means to be an upright man. What does it mean to act by the proverbial plumb. This and more on this episode of The Winding Stairs. Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. Connect with The Winding Stairs here: We hope we have earned your Subscription If you would like to support our efforts to help men become 21st century gentlemen, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. Thank you! Producers: Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level) | |||
| 23 Aug 2022 | Investigation Committee in Freemasonry | Guarding the West Gate | 00:24:28 | |
What's the role of the investigation committee in Freemasonry? How is the Masonic investigation committee formed and what do they do to protect the Lodge and the Craft? In this episode of The Winding Stairs, we discuss the dos and don'ts of participating in making sure the candidate is a good fit for our organization. We discuss some of the mistakes Lodge's make when investigating a potential candidate. Connect with us! We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: Thank you! Producers (Earl Level): Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. Keywords | |||
| 22 Jul 2019 | Masonic Music for Lodge | A Conversation with Composer Bro. Joscar Poerschke | 00:13:59 | |
Masonic Music for LodgesA few episodes ago we sat down for a conversation with Brother Joscar Poerschke, composer and pianist. This talented Brother has put together a collection of music designed to accompany our beautiful rituals. When played by an experienced musician or simply by playing it through a Bluetooth speaker, these songs have the potential of elevating the ritual experience to another level.We hope you enjoy the insights Brother Joscar shared about his creative process and how these pieces were inspired. If you are interested in learning more about Bro. Joscar's work, please visit: https://amzn.to/2y7xzYh Support for The Winding Stairs Freemasonry PodcastThis program is made possible in part by the generous support of our exclusive group of supporters on Patreon.com In this episode we would like to extend a special thanks to:
Your support helps us share more Light with Brothers around the world. Thank you. Look what our Supporters have Unlocked | |||
| 02 Mar 2019 | Masonic Ritual Music | A Conversation with Composer Bro. Joscar Poerschke | 00:33:08 | |
Masonic Ritual Music may not be prominent in today's Lodges, but being one of the most evolved Liberal Arts, it can have a profound effect in an initiates experience. Join me as I share an amazing composition for Piano by W. B. Joscar Poerschke that can be used in your Lodge Ritual today. | |||
| 21 Jun 2022 | Improving Masonic Education | A Conversation with Masonic Improvement | 00:48:40 | |
Improving Masonic education should be a top priority for every Lodge leader. But how does one go about making the Masonic learning experience better for our Brethren? In this episode of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, we have a conversation with Justin Taylor Jones and Dennis Yates from Masonic Improvement about their effort to improve Masonic education in the state of Texas. Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. Connect with The Winding Stairs here: We hope we have earned your Subscription If you would like to support our efforts to help men become 21st century gentlemen, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. Thank you! Producers: Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level) | |||
| 26 Aug 2016 | Drinking from The Fire Hose | One Day Classes | 00:26:34 | |
On this episode of The Winding Stairs, we tackle a very contentious topic, One Day Classes. I recently asked The Winding Stairs Facebook Group Members "What is your opinion about One Day Classes in Freemasonry?" and the result was shocking. Not only did I discover that the majority of respondents had a negative opinion regarding One Day Classes, but many held some sort of animosity towards Brothers who have joined the fraternity in this manner. Dismayed by the negative dynamics that I witnessed within the threads, I contacted two Brothers who I admire greatly. Brother Chris Hodapp, author of Freemasons for Dummies and Bro. Jon Ruark, my co-host on The Masonic Roundtable. Both of these Brothers are Past Masters in their respective States, but they have gone above and beyond in their attempt to understand and offer solutions to the One Day Conferral Conundrum. I hope that you find this episode edifying. | |||
| 11 Oct 2022 | Building Awareness about Freemasonry- AJAR 1 | 00:20:09 | |
Masonic Membership has been in decline over the past half century and finding the reasons and formulating solutions for that decline becomes an ever-increasing priority in our circles. In this series (Ep.1/4), we will discuss 4 aspects of the Masonic experience that could use some intentional improvement to make sure that more good men are given the tools of Freemasonry to make themselves better men. Connect with us! Web- [https://TheWindingStairs.com/](https://TheWindingStairs.com/ "") We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: [https://Patreon.com/JuanSepulveda](https://Patreon.com/JuanSepulveda "") Thank you! Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): | |||
| 26 Jul 2022 | Masonic Burnout | 00:16:36 | |
Have you ever seen someone who shortly after joining Freemasonry, goes all in. Eats and Breathes Freemasonry with such fury that you’d think nothing else in their world matters? If the masonic journey was a race, they would be going against all prudent advice from experts. Make sure to take care of your body, pace yourself, don’t ignore the signs of wear and tear, etc. Is Freemasonry good? Of course it is! Could it turn into a bad thing for you, if you put it above all other things? I think you know the answer to that. In this episode, we bring you some real life examples and some tips to help you avoid Masonic Burnout. Connect with us! We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: Thank you! Producers (Earl Level): Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. ------------------------------------------- | |||
| 24 May 2022 | Masonic Travels | Are you a Traveling Man | 00:24:09 | |
What do Masons get out of traveling Masonically. In other words, what does a Freemason gain from visiting other Lodges and other Masonic Jurisdictions in their travels. The short answer is, A LOT! On this episode of The Winding Stairs, we invite you to hop aboard a car with three Brothers and find out for yourself what Masons get out of Masonic Travels. If you enjoyed The Winding Stairs Podcast, please show your support by visiting https://www.thewindingstairs.com/shop/ where you can find a growing collection of Masonic Art and Regalia, including genuine lambskin aprons. Thank you. Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. Connect with The Winding Stairs here: We hope we have earned your Subscription If you would like to support our efforts to help men become 21st century gentlemen, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. Thank you! Executive Producer: Producers: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level) | |||
| 30 Jun 2019 | Masonic Lodge Secretary | A Conversation with Bro. Robert Marshall | 00:29:47 | |
Masonic Lodge SecretaryThe Masonic Lodge Secretary is one of the Lodge Officer positions. A very challenging Masonic leadership position that could be incredibly fulfilling when performed in an organized manner. In this episode of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, the secretary of Waco Lodge No.92 -Bro:. Robert Marshall- joins us for a conversation about being a Masonic Lodge Secretary, Masonic Leadership, and some of the challenges that come with these responsibilities.Support for The Winding Stairs Freemasonry PodcastThis program is made possible in part by the generous support of our exclusive group of supporters on Patreon.com In this episode we would like to extend a special thanks to:
Your support helps us share more Light with Brothers around the world. Thank you. | |||
| 14 Jun 2022 | The Lewis | The Father Son legacy in Freemasonry | 00:16:52 | |
The Lewis Jewel commemorates the long legacy of fathers and son who share a common bond with our Fraternity. Imagine having to lift and reposition hundreds or thousands of stones The Lewis is a tool used by operative masons to facilitate the lifting and positioning of heavy stones. It is a strong yet simple design that serves as the connection between the stone and a crane or pulley system. In speculative Masonry, the son of a Mason is referred to as a Lewis. In this episode of The Winding Stairs, lets explore the lewis jewel, the operative mason tool with the same name and what roles it plays in our fraternity today. Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. Connect with The Winding Stairs here: We hope we have earned your Subscription If you would like to support our efforts to help men become 21st century gentlemen, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. Thank you! Producers: Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level) | |||
| 20 Sep 2022 | Don't be a CircumPunk | Masonic Self Control | 00:25:17 | |
I believe that Freemasonry has benefited greatly from the connectivity that the Internet has provided. Today, curious people from around the globe, who once only heard sporadically about this organization, can do a little research and even find a Lodge nearby for them to approach. However, the connectivity of the internet hasn’t only brought positive things to the fraternity, it has also served as a fertile ground for a mischievous creature I like to call… The CircumPunk. You may have heard of the circumpunct before, that symbol of the point within a circle, which alludes to our ability to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions within due bounds. Well, the CircumPunk is no other than that Brother who neglects the lessons of the compasses and allows their imprudence to know no bounds. Please show your support to this episode's sponsor Fossil Bluff who so generous as to extend a special promotion exclusively to our listeners. Visit https://www.fossilbluff.com/tws Connect with us! Web- https://TheWindingStairs.com/ TikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/@thewindingstairs YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/thewindingstairs Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thewindingstairs/ Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/TheWindingStairs/ Twitter- https://twitter.com/WindingStairs33 We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: https://Patreon.com/JuanSepulveda Thank you! Producers (Earl Level): Angel Rodriguez Chris Williams Thanks to our team: Alberto Mella Khristopher Rodriguez Tamesh Bahadur Jennifer Stephannie Muttaqi Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): Angel Rodriguez Chris Williams Daniel Mata Devin Wyatt Guillaume Durand Jaime Molinar Kraig Krueger Kris Kirby Marty Dagoberto Driggs Pat Watson Rick Kellinger Tommy Abrahamsen Tyler Hall Wes Latchford Equipment used: Did you like the quality of our video, here are some of the tools and services we use and recommend*. Video Camera1: Canon EOS M50 https://amzn.to/3wUgrna Camera2: https://amzn.to/3zf5PSi Lenses: Canon EF-M 22mm https://amzn.to/3a88P8T Audio Microphone Main: Audio Technica ATR2100 https://amzn.to/3t41mxW Microphone (directional): Audio Technica AT875R https://amzn.to/38zNjcE Audio Interface: Behringer U-phoria UMC404HD https://amzn.to/3a25lod Lighting Key Lights: Neewer NL660 https://amzn.to/3t4CtlX Back Light: Neewer GL1 https://amzn.to/38vD20X *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity.
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| 31 Jul 2019 | Virtual Freemasonry | A replacement for traditional lodges? | 00:48:21 | |
Virtual FreemasonryA replacement for traditional Lodges?In the 21st Century, there is no shortage of technologies that can facilitate communication. With the advent of social media, many people have resorted to getting less and less involved in physical activities and social events. Among the changes we have seen with the adoption of social media as a "replacement" for human interaction, is a growth in the number of people that resort to Virtual Freemasonry as their number one source of Masonic Education. Should it replace traditional Lodge meetings altogether? How will Freemasonry look in the coming decades?
On this episode of The Winding Stairs, I sit down with one of the co-hosts of The Masonic Roundtable and one of the officers of Castle Island Virtual Lodge. Two Brothers who are very familiar with Virtual Freemasonry and the digital revolution within the Craft. We hope you enjoy this exploration into Virtual Freemasonry. Support for The Winding Stairs Freemasonry PodcastThis program is made possible in part by the generous support of our exclusive group of supporters on Patreon.com
Your support helps us share more Light with Brothers around the world. Thank you!Look what our Supporters have Unlocked!
When you choose to join our exclusive group of supporters, you will gain access to behind-the-scenes footage of our creative process, Bonus Content, early access to some episodes, and closer collaboration with the Brothers behind this program. For details of the benefits we’ve reserved only for you and to learn more about this fun and fulfilling opportunity, visit: How can you support our program?If you found this episode edifying, please consider supporting our show by choosing any of these options…
Regardless of the way in which you choose to support our show, Thank you. | |||
| 02 Aug 2022 | Preserving Lodge History | A Conversation with Historical Light Masonic Podcast | 00:40:14 | |
Your Lodge may have a very interesting history to share but if it’s not being properly preserved, it will be lost forever. Preserving Masonic History becomes an important duty for all of us. A duty that will ensure future generations of Freemasons get to know the people and events that gave shape to the character of each Masonic Lodge. Join me as I speak with Bro. Alex Powers, the host of Historical Light Masonic Podcast, about the efforts he has made to preserve the history of his Lodge and to inspire countless Brothers to preserve theirs. This is only half of this fascinating conversation, the other half will be published in his podcast. Make sure to listen to both to learn what it takes to move beyond the reading of the minutes and into masonic time travel. Connect with our guest: Connect with us! We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: Thank you! Producers (Earl Level): Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. | |||
| 16 Aug 2022 | Masonic Officers' Progressive Line Issues | 00:25:06 | |
The leadership system of a Masonic Lodge is one of predictable and progressive steps. When a Brother joins the officer line, we have a pretty good idea of who the leaders of the Lodge will be for the next 5 - 7 years. But only if things run smoothly. And you and I both know that if there is room for things to go wrong, they often do. But don’t worry, this is not going to be a gloom and doom episode, I will offer some potential solutions Connect with us! We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: Thank you! Producers (Earl Level): Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. | |||
| 28 Jun 2022 | Part upon the Square | How Freemasons behave virtuously | 00:11:03 | |
It is said that Freemasons part upon the square. If we recognize the symbolism of the Square, we will recognize that this means that Masons behave virtuously in their walking through life. In order for us to walk uprightly through life, extending our kindness and acting with virtue, it is important that we are clear about which virtues we are to exemplify. In this episode of The Winding Stairs, we will discuss how does a mason put into practice the virtuous lessons contained within the Craft. Let's make sure in everything we do, we part upon the square. Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. Connect with The Winding Stairs here: We hope we have earned your Subscription If you would like to support our efforts to help men become 21st century gentlemen, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. Thank you! Producers: Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level) | |||
| 12 Jul 2022 | Brother James Webb and his Space Telescope | 00:11:55 | |
These are exciting times for Science! For months, astronomy enthusiasts have been excitedly awaiting the release of the first photos from the James Webb Space Telescope. A $10 Billion Dollar project to put the largest and most capable telescope out in Space. There are two primary reasons why every Freemason in the world should be excited about this event. 1. As Masons we are encouraged to study Astronomy (We answer why in this episode) and 2. This telescope was named after Brother James Webb… A Freemason. Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. Connect with The Winding Stairs here: We hope we have earned your Subscription If you would like to support our efforts to help men become 21st century gentlemen, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. Thank you! Producers: Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level) | |||
| 18 Oct 2022 | Masonic Membership Decline | 00:54:25 | |
What’s behind this Masonic Membership Decline and what can we do about it? Fraternal orders and non-profit organizations have seen a steady decline in membership and participation over the last few decades. If you are familiar with Freemasonry, you will agree that what it teaches men is desperately needed in today’s society. In this episode of The Winding Stairs, Bro. Tom McGuire (Founder of FossilBluff) and I sit down for a conversation where we explore the many reasons why our organization continues to face declining numbers and we provide some practical solutions to help us reverse this trend. Learn more about our guest Tom McGuire and his amazing collection of Masonic Inspired products by visiting https://FossilBluff.com Connect with us! Web- https://TheWindingStairs.com/ We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: https://Patreon.com/JuanSepulveda Thank you! Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): | |||
| 05 Oct 2022 | Lodge Visitation | Masonic Credentials, Recognition, and Technology | 00:30:33 | |
Lodge visitation is one of the greatest perks you have as a Freemason. As a Master Mason, you are entitled to visit other Masonic Lodges around the world. That means, that despite not knowing anyone in another country, you can go to a Lodge and instantly connect with a group of Brothers who will treat you like family. In this episode of The Winding Stairs, I have a conversation with Michael Radigan and Jeremy Barnes, the developers of the Mobile App called Amity. This app serves as your dues card, travel patent, lodge finder, etc. It is a great hub for Brothers to connect during their Masonic Travels. Learn more about Amity by visiting: Please show your support to this episode's sponsor Fossil Bluff who was so generous as to extend a special promotion exclusively to our listeners. Visit [https://www.fossilbluff.com/tws](https://www.fossilbluff.com/tws Connect with us! We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: https://Patreon.com/JuanSepulveda Thank you! Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): | |||
| 12 Aug 2019 | Amity and Beyond | Tech in Freemasonry | 00:43:55 | |
Have you ever been traveling and thought to yourself “I wonder if there is a Lodge nearby.”? Don’t you wish that you knew which Lodges are near you, when they meet, and if they are in amity with your Grand Lodge? Well, if you own a smartphone, you can do all that and more today! In this episode, of TWS I have a candid conversation with Brothers Jeremy Barnes & Michael Radigan, the Brothers behind the convenient app called Amity. We discuss how it started, how it’s used today, and what are some of the exciting developments in store for the future. The future of Masonic Travel is here, it’s bright, and you are part of it. | |||
| 28 Jun 2018 | 100 Days | A Conversation with Bro. Robert Bone | 00:42:27 | |
100 Days | A Conversation with Robert Bone of In The Chair PodcastWhen we are about to start something we've never done before, we often feel overwhelmed. But why should we go through so much trouble, when so many others have gone this way before us? On this episode of The Winding Stairs, we have a conversation with W:. Bro. Robert Bone, host of In The Chair Podcast. Brother Bone is a professional magician and mind-reader and on this episode, he shares some of the techniques he has adapted from his vocation to aid him in his Masonic Journey. This is an episode you don't want to miss. | |||
| 05 Jul 2022 | Patriotism in Freemasonry | 00:18:20 | |
Did you know that if you belong to a group or organization that plans to overthrow the government by force or coercion, you can’t become a Freemason? Is Freemasonry a Patriotic organization. What does Freemasonry teach us about loyalty to your country? Let’s explore the relationship between Freemasonry and Patriotism in this episode of TWS Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. Connect with The Winding Stairs here: We hope we have earned your Subscription If you would like to support our efforts to help men become 21st century gentlemen, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. Thank you! Producers: Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level) | |||
| 15 Nov 2022 | Inconsistency in Freemasonry | Does it help or hinder? | 00:42:47 | |
How can we maintain consistency in Freemasonry? inconsistency in Freemasonry is a major problem when it interferes with the onboarding of new candidates, when it provides an inconsistent experience for its members, and when it gives outsiders a negative impression of our organization. In this episode of The Winding Stairs, we discuss Inconsistency in Freemasonry. I sit down with Bro. Andrew Rizzitello to discuss what aspect of Freemasonry need more consistency and which aspects can present benefits by being "inconsistent" or unique. Bro. Rizzitello is Past Master (2021) and current Tiler of Olive Branch Lodge No. 16, Freehold NJ. He is a co-host of The Extended Branch masonic podcast and you can find him sharing Masonic Light on TikTok as @Metal_Drew. Connect with him here: Connect with us! Connect with our guest Andrew Rizzitello TikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/@thewindingstairs We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: Thank you! Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): In this episode: | |||
| 06 Sep 2022 | Interview with Widows Mijo | Conspiracy Theories, Freemasonry and TikTok | 00:31:29 | |
This is a conversation with one of the most exciting TikTok creators who talk about Freemasonry on that platform. He has taken the task of combating some of the nonsense that people try to say about Freemasonry on social media. He comes with evidence and the proof necessary to put an end to these crazy conspiracies. Join us as we have a conversation with Bro. Widows Mijo. Please show your support to this episode's sponsor Fossil Bluff who was so generous to extend a special promotion exclusively to our listeners. Visit Https://FossilBluff.com/TWS Connect with Widows Mijo: Connect with us! We hope we have earned your Subscription If you value the content we create, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. To unlock exclusive perks, including early access to our content and your name in the credits of future videos, please visit: Thank you! Producers (Earl Level): Thanks to our team: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level): Daniel Mata Devin Wyatt Equipment used: Video Audio Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. | |||
| 20 Apr 2017 | Building Blocks | A Conversation with Bro. Joshua Poole | 00:18:52 | |
Do you love Masonry? Do you love playing with Lego Building Blocks? If you answered yes to these two seemingly disparate questions, then you are up for a treat! On this episode of The Winding Stairs, I speak with Bro. Joshua Poole about a proposed model of The House of The Temple, which has the potential of being added to the Architecture line of Legos. The good thing is that you can help us make this a reality. To vote for the House of the Temple Set, visit: https://ideas.lego.com/projects/159780 Subscribe to our channel to stay informed of other stimulating conversations with men who have made the lessons of Freemasonry a part of their lives and be a witness to the great power behind these timeless lessons.
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| 17 May 2022 | Masonic Lodge Meetings | What to avoid and improve | 00:38:02 | |
Our stated meetings don't have a reputation for being the most amazing in the world. Honestly, sometimes our meetings resemble more a HOA meeting than anything else. But it doesn't have to be that way. Our Fraternity has a long tradition of bestowing the meetings with elements of solemnity and ritual that have the potential of leaving a positive impression in the attendants mind. On this episode of TWS, I sit down with W. Manny Lozada to revisit a conversation we had a few years ago , where we discuss Meaningful Lodge Experiences. Manny gives us an update on what things he has implemented in Lodge for that purpose. We hope you find this episode edifying. Equipment used: Did you like the quality of our video, here are some of the tools and services we use and recommend*. Video Camera: Canon EOS M50 Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera Kit with EF-M 15-45mm Lens, Black Lense: Canon EF-M 22mm Canon EF-M 22mm f2 STM Compact System Lens Audio Microphone Main: ATR2100 Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB Cardioid Dynamic USB/XLR Microphone Microphone (directional): Audio Technica AT875R Audio-Technica AT875R Line/Gradient Shotgun Condenser Microphone Audio Interface: Behringer U-phoria UMC404HD Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD Audiophile 4x4, 24-Bit/192 kHz USB Audio/MIDI Interface with Midas Mic Preamplifiers Lighting *Affiliate links disclosure: Links to products or services included in this post may be affiliate links which may result in us receiving a small commission from your purchase. This will not affect the price you pay for said products/services. Know that this negligible compensation will never sway our opinion or integrity. Connect with The Winding Stairs here: We hope we have earned your Subscription If you would like to support our efforts to help men become 21st century gentlemen, please consider supporting our work through Patreon. Thank you! Executive Producer: Producers: Supporters (Baron & Viscount Level) | |||
| 08 Jul 2019 | Illuminated Documentary | A Conversation with Bro. Johnny Royal | 00:34:56 | |
In this episode, I sit down for a conversation with a very talented Brother who is a composer, writer, and film-maker. As the Director and Producer of films like 33 & Beyond and the upcoming documentary titled “Illuminated”, Bro:. Royal pulls back the curtain on Fraternal Orders like Freemasonry and the Illuminati with accuracy and impeccable style. Support for The Winding Stairs Freemasonry PodcastThis program is made possible in part by the generous support of our exclusive group of supporters on Patreon.com In this episode we would like to extend a special thanks to:
Your support helps us share more Light with Brothers around the world. Thank you. Join our Exclusive Group of Supporters
When you choose to join our exclusive group of supporters, you will gain access to behind-the-scenes footage of our creative process, early access to some episodes, and closer collaboration with the Brothers behind this program. For details of the benefits we’ve reserved only for you and to learn more about this fun and fulfilling opportunity, visit: Patreon.com/TheWindingStairsSupportIf you found this episode edifying, please consider supporting our show by choosing any of these options…
Regardless of the way in which you choose to support our show, Thank you. ContributorsWe are fortunate to work alongside some amazing Brothers who help make this content possible for you. I would like to personally thank my podcast team for their valuable work.
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| 15 Feb 2013 | Masonic Education | Because sitting through the minutes is not enough! | 00:32:55 | |
The Winding Stairs Episode 2: Masonic Education When a man decides he wants to learn more about Freemasonry, often times it is because they see something admirable on others who are already members of the Fraternity. It often stems from the desire to grow as human beings and serve as an example for others. However, merely joining the Fraternity is not enough. It is important that a Man stays desirous of Light in order for that wish of improvement to become a reality. Therefore, it is through the conscious effort to learn and apply the tenets of Freemasonry, that a Man can thereby become the inspiration to others who have not yet joined the Craft. As we improve ourselves, through the steady pursuit of Light, we become better Men and become an integral part of the cycle of self-improvement afforded to us by Freemasonry. In This Episode of The Winding Stairs Podcast you will find: Topic Update: We briefly revisit our study on Patience. The introduction of a New Program Segment titled: “In The News”. We will discuss various resources of Masonic Education. We highlight some of your comments from the previous episode. Are you enjoying this program? I hope you find the content of this program to be edifying; So, please let us know your opinion about this and other episodes by leaving your comments in the comments section. Your ratings and reviews on any of the audio players will be greatly appreciated and they help the show become better every time. Supplement your Masonic Education by listening to Masonic Programs We invite you to listen, in addition to this program, to a great Masonic Program titled “Whence Came You?” Hosted by Brother Robert Johnson. It includes reviews on Masonic Papers, Information on Famous Freemasons and it brings some obscure Freemason Conspiracies to light and dispels their claims. Overall it is a very edifying and entertaining program. You can find it by visiting http://www.WCYPodcast.com or find him on http://Facebook.com/WhenceCameYou . Patience Revisited: We read what King Solomon said about the relationship between Wisdom and Patience. For this fascinating nugget of information we go to the New International Version of the Bible for Reference. Why quote from the Bible? The Holy Bible is My Great Light, but even if it is not the same Source of Light as yours, we should recognize that it includes great truths, just like many other volumes of Sacred Law and it is prudent for us to not dismiss their Light simply because we follow a different Faith. Proverbs 19:11 “A person’s wisdom yields patience; It is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” New Segment: In The News An Exhibition titled “Treasures of Arkansas Freemasonry” opens at the Historic Arkansas Museum. The exhibition was organized by the Grand Lodge of Arkansas to celebrate their 175th Anniversary from receiving their charter in 1853. The exhibition features an Exhibition of Masonic Treasures from 1838 to the present and includes artifacts like: Masonic Aprons Jewels Gavels The chair of Arkansas most famous Mason, Albert Pike George Washington Family Bible When? February 8 - July 12, 2013 For more information Link: http://www.historicarkansas.org/exhibits/newsDetail.aspx?id=254 The second news article is about an arson attempt, which was thwarted by a Brother who was in the building at the time of the intrusion.Where? Cincinnati Lodge No. 3 in Morristown NJWhen? February 8th 2013 around 10:30 pmA man broke through the front doors of the Lodge carrying jugs full of gasoline.A Lodge caretaker happened to be inside the Lodge at the time and managed to wrestle and restrain the man until the police came to arrest him. The brother sustained minor injuries and the Lodge’s only reported damaged was as a result of the combustible that was spilled in the ordeal. Help us keep the program growing When you place an order through the Marketplace section of The Winding St... | |||
| 01 Mar 2013 | A Solid Foundation | What makes a man a good fit to become a Mason? | 00:31:35 | |
The Winding Stairs Podcast: Episode 3 What makes a man a good fit to become a Mason? In the construction of a building, the stability and suitability of the foundation is crucial in its longevity; Similarly, the moral, social and spiritual upbringing of a man can be described as his foundation and what makes him suitable to become and remain a Freemason. Masonic Education Revisited In episode 2 of The Winding Stairs (http://TheWindingStairs.com/002) we discuss various ways in which a man can acquire Masonic Light. Among them we discuss the continuous study of Masonic Literature, which today has become more accessible than ever, due to advances in technology like Google Books or LibriVox. These two valuable resources gives us access to countless publications related to our Fraternity. When do you spend time reading and studying? We posted a question on our Facebook page, regarding what time of day our listeners chose to read and study. One of the answers was that early in the morning before beginning the workday. I really enjoyed that answer because it relates to the topic of a solid foundation. I think about beginning the day by reading edifying content as the laying of a solid foundation upon which a productive day is erected. I encourage you to try it and welcome any suggestions you might have about how to start your day right or what is the ideal time for you to study. Enter your comments below or on our Facebook Page and adding your contributions there. A Solid Foundation: Is your temple resting upon the stability of a solid foundation? Like an architect ensures that the ground upon which the envisioned building will be constructed, as Masons we are responsible to ensure that those who knock on our Lodge's doors are given access to our family, only if they are found to posses a solid foundation. On our discussion of a Solid Foundation on the previous blog post, we talk about the example of the Tower of Pisa in Italy, which although it was a beautiful creation, those in charge of its construction did not prepare the ground adequately for a building of its magnitude. We admire the beauty of this building and the marvel of architecture and engineering that its preservation has become. However, countless hours and talent has been poured into preventing a catastrophe and maintaining the integrity of the building and it is a burden that could have been avoided from its inception. (we recommend that you also read the post titled "A Solid Foundation", which includes more information about the allegorical similarities between The Leaning Tower of Pisa and the importance of a solid foundation within those interested in freemasonry.) It would be wise for Lodge members, when given the opportunity to serve their Lodges as members of the petitions or investigative committees to make sure that only those men who are worthy and well qualified are given admittance to our honorable fraternity. Not to heed this advise could result in the Lodge incurring in unnecessary time and effort to revert the mistake made initially We are the stewards and guardians of this Brotherhood and if we give admittance to people whose intention is not honorable, we jeopardize the future of our Lodges and the harmony within it. 5 Simple Requirements for a Man interested in joining Freemasonry 1. Honorable Man: Freemasonry opens its doors to men of honor. To good men, of good character and high morals. 2. Lawful Age: This requirement varies between States, but normally fluctuates between 18 and 21 years of age. If you are younger than this, there are Masonic Youth organizations like DeMolay International, which works closely with local Masonic Lodges. 3. Well Recommended: For a candidate to gain admittance to the Order, he must enjoy a good reputation and have other Freemasons willing to recommend him. But, what if you don't know any Masons? If you contact your local Lodge and are invited to visit them, | |||
| 04 Apr 2013 | Veiled in Allegory | The reason behind the Allegorical teaching method | 00:38:47 | |
The Winding Stairs Episode 4: Veiled in Allegory Freemasonry is described elegantly as a Science of Morality, Veiled in Allegory and Illustrated by Symbols. If there is nothing sinister in a science of morality, then why should it be veiled? On this episode we explore the reasons behind the allegorical teaching method and how well it works with the human mind. We introduce two new segments to our program: Masonic History Masonic Conspiracies by Bro:. Robert Johnson from Whence Came You? Podcast. Masonic History Masonic Apron Protects County Documents During the civil war, In Brunswick County Virginia, an act of benevolence, perhaps brotherhood, saved the county records from being destroyed. On May 15, 1864, Union troops were approaching the courthouse. The reputation that preceded this troops was an unnerving one for the county officials; especially since in addition to burning bridges and cutting confederate communication lines, some union troops were burning down the historical records as they moved through towns. As the Brunswick's county clerk of the courts, Edward Randolph Turnbull, received news of the impending arrival of the Union Troops, he resorted to a quite unconventional way of protecting his county's documents. He stacked the priceless documents on top of a table in the courthouse and draped them (veiled them) with his Masonic Apron hoping that, as many other Union Officers at the time, the approaching one was a Mason. This unorthodox yet inspiring defense seemed to have worked perfectly, as the apron was later delivered, presumably by a Union Troop, directly to Turnbull's house. When Turnbull returned to the courthouse, to his surprise, the office was ransacked, except for the stack of documents he had entrusted to the care of his Lambskin. You can read more about this piece of Masonic and American History by reading the original story featured in the Richmond Times Dispatch on March 17, 2013. It was written by Bill Lohmann. Masonic Conspiracies The Alleged Connection between Mormons, Freemasons and Aliens On this segment, Bro:. Robert Johnson shares a very interesting Conspiracy Theory that is being shared on the internet, regarding an alleged connection between religious leaders, The Freemasons, The Illuminati and even aliens. Don't miss this insightful contribution to the podcast, by our Brother and Producer of Whence Came You Podcast. You can listen to other Masonic Conspiracies (debunked) and valuable Masonic Discussions at WCYPodcast.com Veiled In Allegory Why is this morality veiled in allegory? If we think of the great teachers that have made a difference in history, many of them expressed themselves through the effective teaching tool of allegory. One of the most efficient ways in which people can acquire knowledge is by learning new things while comparing them to already known ones. When we learn to speak, we learn a few first words and continue increasing our vocabulary by adding more words and learning how those words relate to the ones previously learned. Similarly, when learning the science of arithmetic, we begin with basic concepts and rules, which increase in complexity, but always retain some similarities to those initial concepts we first learned. Therefore, when we think of the great lessons taught by the great teachers of history and the way in which they were able to express complex concepts by comparing and contrasting them with already familiar ones, we can observe how this technique cements new ideas permanently into our mind. This veil of allegory is not merely put into place to conceal information from others outside our Order, but more importantly to aid in the recollection of these lessons, because they are intrinsically connected to other lessons and life experiences we already posses. We all know how marvelous the human brain is in its efficiency and complexity, but very few people really know that one of the quali... | |||
| 25 Apr 2013 | Where is your Courage? | 5 places to look for It | 00:34:10 | |
The Winding Stairs Episode 5 Where is your Courage? Not everything in life comes easy to us. There are many things that are difficult and sometimes downright intimidating. When we face these things which intimidate us, our default reaction might be to avoid them and engage in other things. Although this might be a natural reaction or an instinctual response, it does not always serve its intended purpose. If we think about human evolution, we can understand that the spirit of self-preservation would have moved primitive humans to avoid overly dangerous or challenging situations. However, in today's world we retain that instinctive inclination to find the path of least resistance, even when that path would lead away from reaching our dreams and achieving those things we desire the most. What can we do to fight this urge to "survive"? and instead choose that path that will help us Live and thrive, not just survive? The secret is in finding courage. Courage to live a life that fulfills us and allows us to experience our dreams. This does not mean that we will be fearless; for fear is a natural reaction to uncertainty and danger. What being courageous means, is to decide to take action, not without fear, but in spite of it. Where is your Courage? The 5 Places to look for Courage As we go through life, we are bound to encounter situations, which can be difficult and discouraging. This fact is inevitable, but there are several things we can do to make sure we are encouraged and continue moving forward. Look Behind: Retrospection We often forget about past victories; Especially when we are facing a challenge. This is the time when we can draw much needed courage from remembering those past successes. Bringing these moments to the present is sure to re-energize us and remind us that we have already achieved great things. By looking behind at those past triumphs, we create a momentum, which can carry us further than we think possible. If your job requires sales or persuation, you will agree with the notion that a second sale is easier than the first. Sales coaches often advise sales people to capitalize on the momentum created by that initial sale. That momentum will increase the confidence in the sales person and help him create subsequent sales. Similarly, when we look back at previous moments of success, our confidence increases and motivate us to push through the obstacles and achieve our desired goal. There is a biblical example of this concept in action. When a young David was considering standing against the [give brief background about philisteins threatening the israelites] giant, he reached back in to the moments he had defended his flocks from the attacks of a Lion. This gave him the courage necessary to confront an enemy, who had been undefeated and presented an unprecedented threat to the Israelite. Look Inside: Introspection Introspection is crucial in the development of confidence and the increase of courage. When we analyze ourselves and try to identify those thoughts, which may be holding us back, then we can correct them and gain confidence. We first have to be aware the things within us, which might be discouraging us to pursue those things we want to do. Understanding the root of our fears allows us to find specific solutions to those fears, increasing our chances of executing those plans, which we on which we have been procrastinating. Is it fear of failure? Are we trying to avoid embarassment? Are we too worried about what other people might think? These are all good questions in the search for those reasons within us, which might be holding us down. With the same intensity, we should look inside ourselves for those qualities that will become handy if we embarq on our desired journey. If we familiarise ourselves with those qualities, which give us a good chance at being successful in our endeavour, then we will have a ready arsenal at our disposal to combat or counterbalance thos... | |||
| 19 May 2013 | Prudence | A better name for common sense | 00:33:08 | |
I In my search for light, I have found why "common sense" is so rare am sure that you have heard the expression "common sense". I am also sure that by now you have probably noticed that there is nothing common about common sense.and why we should use the word "PRUDENCE" instead. I suggest we first look at prudence by exploring various definitions of the word. According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, prudence is defined as: 1: the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason 2: sagacity or shrewdness in the management of affairs 3: skill and good judgment in the use of resources 4: caution or circumspection as to danger or risk When looking carefully at the first definition, we encounter the words govern and discipline, in reference to oneself. In other words, prudence is a person’s ability to exercise self control in their decision making process. Through the use of reason, we are able to become better decision makers, especially when we are disciplined and controlled. I can’t help to think of government when I read the portion of the aforementioned definition which says “Govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason”. If we think of the non-political aspects of Governments, we can describe it as the development, implementation and revision of rules and regulations, with the intent of creating and preserving order in society. Likewise, when we govern ourselves, we should dedicate time to learn from our life experience and the lessons shared by others, to create rules and regulations to follow in order to implement and preserve an orderly life. In other words, you should look at the various scenarios you live through and attempt to develop your own set of rules on how to act in said circumstances. If you have these predetermined solutions to possible future conflicts, the probability of a satisfactory outcome when facing these hypothetical scenarios in real life, is increased. I compare this to the professional fighters of mixed martial arts, a multidisciplinary fighting style, who before entering the ring (or octagon) prepare for the fight by studying the various responses he is to implement when presented with specific sets of circumstances. A well rounded fighter would have enough experience in stand-up combat like kickboxing; enough experience in wrestling or judo to bring their opponent to the ground or resist being taken down and would have floor work experience like that provided by Jiu Jitsu. Each one of these examples of individual martial art styles have a vast number of moves for which their opponent needs to have a counter measure or defense. The greater the experience or knowledge in these various fighting disciplines, the better the chances the fighter has to at a moments notice, make the right moves to gain an advantage in the fight. This is the way we should look at Prudence. When we think of the possible scenarios we may face in life, or analyse those which we have already encountered, we can decide on what our reaction will be if we face those scenarios in the future. If this is the strategy we adopt, then by the time we enter the octagon of life and face our most feared contender, we have a fighting chance at a victory, because we have prepared ourselves and envisioned our possible offensive and defensive strategy. On this episode of The Winding Stairs you can hear another installment of Masonic Conspiracies by Brother Robert Johnson from Whence Came You? Podcast. This time, he explores conspiracies about Draconian, Reptilian Entities bend on global domination through the implementation of secret societies. Yes, there are people out there that believe this is what we are about. I invite you to head over to Whence Came You? Podcast and enjoy the great content about Famous Freemason, Short Masonic Papers and Inspiring Stories from our Fraternity. If you are on Twitter, make sure to follow @WhenceCameYou Question of the Day: | |||
| 05 Jun 2013 | Honorable Men | The model behavior of a Freemason | Freemasonry Tenets | 00:29:42 | |
We are Honorable Men and should always act as such. Being an honorable man and behaving honorably are qualities that should set every Man and Mason apart. As members of the Most Honorable fraternity in the world, we are called to lead exemplary lives, which model the virtuous tenets inculcated in Freemasonry. Our Masonic Duty calls us to work daily in improving ourselves and become a better fit to the improvement of society. Join us as we explore a few ways in which we can lead by example and live a life worthy of a Master Mason. We are not perfect, but the acknowledgement of those imperfections are the first steps in becoming a better version of ourselves. Have you been witness to behaviors unbecoming of Masons? Learn how can you make a difference in your Lodge, in your Family and in your Community by behaving honorably. In this episode, we unveil the latest addition to The Winding Stairs lineup of Masonic Regalia and Art. Our Composite Collection of High Quality Masonic Aprons. View this collection by visiting http://www.TheWindingStairs.com/MasonicAprons Masonic Conspiracies by Brother Robert Johnson In this episode, Brother Robert Johnson from Whence Came You? Podcast brings us another insightful episode of Masonic Conspiracies. Brother Johnson is a regular contributor to The Winding Stairs, as well as to The Midnight Freemasons. His program brings a variety of interviews to prominent members of our fraternity. He also presents short masonic bulletins and varied forms of Masonic Education. I invite you to visit his page and make sure to subscribe to his show on iTunes and LIKE his Facebook Page. How to behave honorably? To be mindful that people look at us extra carefully and expect us to act with honor. If we display the Square and Compasses in our vehicles, we should drive with courtesy, patience and restraint. If we see Brothers who are not making right decisions or are about to err, it is our duty to speak wise counsel to them and prevent them from falling. | |||
| 03 Feb 2013 | Patience | How does a Mason become more patient? | Flagship Episode | 00:28:48 | |
Thank you for joining me in this program. The Winding Stairs Podcast is intended to be a documentation of a journey, which we can enjoy together. This journey is one of discovery and growth. Who Am I? I am a professional artist and Master Mason, who is very interested in the history of Freemasonry and the application of its tenets for self improvements. What qualifies me to create a program about Freemasonry? Although I began my Masonic Career rather recently (2009) and I am in an early phase of my growth as a Mason, I have been diligent about acquiring Masonic Education and continue to study daily to become a better Man. I am creating this program as a friendly environment where we can meet to discover and discuss Masonic Topics. It is not intended to replace your personal Masonic research or the standardized Masonic education, which your Lodge may provide. We can simply consider it an additional source of Light in Masonry. Among the topics we might discuss in this program you will find: A Virtuous Life: Features a specific virtue and an example in which this virtue can be exercised or has been exercised by a prominent historical figure. Winding Steps: Here the focus is on one of the 15 steps of the Winding Stairs. This will anchor the conversation every week about one of the steps upon which we should be improving. The tone of the podcast is intended to be a friendly and informative one where we can grow together. As we explore the areas of our life that have room for improvement we will develop a road-map for growth. Who should listen to this program? This program is intended for everyone, from Master Masons to people curious about the Order. Hopefully it can provide answers and inspiration for individuals to familiarize themselves with Freemasonry. What is the format of the show? Considering that it is at it's infancy, the format is bound to evolve from it's current state, but only with your feedback will it reach its potential. How can you reach me? If you have any questions or comments, you are welcomed to share them trough this Blog, or through the contact information available above in the Contact Us tab. Let's continue this conversation here on the Blog through comments or by Liking Us on Facebook http://www.Facebook.com/MasonicFundraiser ------- As part of the road map to success, we will explore different moral virtues and how we can become better at exercising them. Since I was working on this program through the Holidays it was appropriate to explore the delicate virtue of Patience. But, Is patience a virtue? After a little research, I found conflicting interpretations of whether Patience is a virtue or not. It is elegantly described in some sources as the result of carefully developed and correctly applied virtues. Among them: Prudence Fortitude Compassion Empathy Courtesy Courage Justice Don't feel guilty if you are not particularly patient; simply recognize that impatience might just be the symptom of other underlying conditions, which when understood, have a better chance of being corrected. E.g. Lack of sleep, lack of exercise, careless diet, emotional or spiritual neglect. "A Person's Wisdom yields patience; It is to one's glory to overlook an offense." Proverbs 19:11 This means that your initiative to increase your wisdom, will result in increased patience. Thinking of your patience as a battery that needs to be fully charged in order for it to yield positive results. It also needs to be replenished frequently and as fully as possible. +++What tools can we use to replenish our Patience Battery. | |||
| 26 Sep 2013 | From Total Darkness to Light | A Conversation with Bro. Marcus Engel | 00:39:28 | |
Imagine losing 100% of your eye sight in the blink of an eye. How would that change your attitude towards life and the life of those who surround you.? On this episode of The Winding Stairs Masonic Podcast, we sit down with a best-selling author, public speaker and extraordinary Brother, who can answer these questions from a first person perspective. In this interview Marcus Engel talks to us about his journey in life and how he has made the best out of the horrible experience that almost took his life. In this interview we learn about: The importance of a Story and how it can help people change the way they look at life. How being present and helping others can turn any situation from horrible to inspiring. How we deal with our past and make decisions for the future. How empathy and compassion are not just good for those in the receiving end. How simply saying "I am Here" can transform somebody's life and even change their mission in life. In the interview you will hear us speaking about a challenging moment of his recovery. As a part of his recovery process, he had to learn how to live as a blind person. At one point he was challenged with what is called "The Drop". Instead of trying to explain it to you, I will let the talented filmmakers show you. "There is nothing I can do to change what happens, All I can do is change the Future” -Marcus Engel Here are some of the books published by Marcus Engel. I'm Here- Compassionate Communication in Patient Care Everyday Inspiration After This- An Inspirational Journey for all the Wrong Reasons You can learn more about Marcus Engel by visiting his website: www.MarcusEngel.com Masonic Art Prints Please remember to visit our Masonic Marketplace at FreemasonryArt.com, where you can find a growing selection of Masonic Art and Regalia. We are very proud of the quality and meaning behind every product we share through FreemasonryArt.com. Remember that in addition to including an inspirational artwork to your home, Lodge or Office, you are also helping in mitigating the growing costs of producing a quality podcast and blog. We created this collection of Masonic Art Prints to inspire you and remind you of the powerful lessons that are contained within the beauty and wisdom of Masonic Symbolism. Whether you are looking to start your own collection or to decorate your Lodge, these prints make a good addition to your environment. To place your order visit FreemasonryArt.com Don't forget to continue your Masonic Education by visiting our Friends and Brothers at: Whence Came You Podcast The Midnight Freemason Question of the Week: What would be a good way to show someone that you are there for them? How could you let people know "I'm Here" without using those exact words? -Please enter your answer in the comment section below and help us all be there for others- | |||
| 19 Nov 2013 | What can you do when facing the Storm? | Simply S.T.A.R.T. | 00:33:29 | |
You probably already know that life is comprised of a series of ups and downs; Twists and turns which end up testing us to the core. Hopefully, in our formative years, we were able to establish a solid foundation upon which to continue constructing the building that will ultimately be our life's biggest achievement. Even if we were fortunate enough to be standing upon a solid foundation, the solidity and stability of that foundation is bound to be tested from time to time. For some, a challenging situation could present itself in the form of a medical diagnosis, the loss of a loved one, a sudden financial burden or a host of other reasons. Regardless of what this traumatic situation might be, there are several steps you can follow to give you a better chance of recovering promptly from it. I have developed a simple to remember formula that can help you see things from a different perspective and hopefully surpass whatever situation is affecting you. I call it the S.T.A.R.T. Formula. Here are the steps: Survey Transform Aim Reach Transcend I have been working on this formula for a while and continue to improve upon its definition; However, its core definition and purpose has the potential of helping you endure and triumph over life's relentless challenges. Here is a detailed look at what each one of these steps can do to help you in your journey to triumph over your challenges and difficulties. Survey While you are enduring the challenge and immediately after it has passed (if it is a transient situation), pay close attention to what has actually happened and what damage has to be dealt with. The Survey phase of this formula has a dual purpose; It helps you measure the damage and how the situation has affected you and those around you. If we were talking about the passing storm, then the Survey phase is the time spent evaluating the speed of the winds, the amount of precipitation and the potential damage that may affect the land in its path. This is also a good time to also spend time focusing on what has survived. Finding a silver lining during the surveying phase is an essential step because it helps us be grateful for that which we still have and reminds us that not all is lost. This gives us something to fight for and can help fuel our determination to fight and recover. Transform Sometimes all we need to do to begin changing our current situation, is to change our perspective about it. I love how Dr. Wayne Dyer puts it, he says "When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change". It often times is a change in perspective that can get your mind ready to begin moving in the right direction. After you have surveyed the damage, it is in your best interest to begin thinking objectively about the aftermath and prepare to change your attitude to recovery-mode. We often feel sorry for ourselves after enduring a tragedy and it is completely normal to run through a wide gamut of emotions when we face loss. However, here is where we do our best to employ the virtue of Fortitude; Thereby, transforming our attitude from looking backwards to setting our sights forward. Aim Surrendering to the circumstances is not an option, understanding the circumstances, learning from them and moving forward is our only option. Now that we have objectively surveyed the damage and transformed our attitudes about it, it is time to set our sights on rebuilding that which has been destroyed. It is now time to set new goals and begin looking optimistically at what is yet to come. This triumphant mentality can help us shake off the sadness and redirect our energy into taking action. After all, simply sitting down and doing nothing is not something that characterizes us. Of course, every circumstance is different and unique to every individual and there will be times that previous efforts and projects might have to be abandoned and a new plan must be started from scra... | |||
| 06 Dec 2013 | Freemasonry in Hollywood | A Conversation with Bro. Joseph James | Part 1 | 00:29:51 | |
Have you ever watched a movie where your see someone wearing a Masonic ring? Or in the background you see some symbols related to Freemasonry? On this episode we speak with Joseph James, he is an actor, writer and producer, who happens to also be a Freemason. His last three films center around the subject of Freemasonry, its history and its influence in modern society. We talk about what took him to Hollywood, his experience in Freemasonry, the importance of mentorship and apprenticeship among many other things. This is part 1 of a 2 part interview with a prolific entrepreneur, who will surely inspire you to reach out for your dreams, regardless of how impossible they might seem.How a Fellow Freemason, brought Freemasonry to the Big Screen I enjoyed my interview with Brother Joseph James and I think you will too, because in addition to shedding light on his films and Freemasonry's influence in it, we also discuss parallels between the film industry and Freemasonry. We talk about his earliest memories of the big screen and how early (or late) in his life he began exploring the idea of getting into the film business. I was inspired by his story of how he rented a 26 feet U Haul truck and took his family to Tinsel-Town in search of a dream. You can learn more about The Freemason Movie by visiting its website www.TheFreemasonMovie.com , visit Joseph James Pages on Facebook www.FB.com/TheFreemasonMovie and www.FB.com/JosephJamesFilms. Follow him on Twitter @JosephJamesNews Here is the official preview of the movie. Don't miss Part 2 of this interview. Make sure you sign up for our email updates to be among the first notified when new episodes and posts are published. Bonus: When you sign up for our newsletter, you also receive a FREE COPY of our book "Masonic Light Resource Report" Sign up here. Also on this episode: Masonic Conspiracies by Bro:. Robert Johnson Enjoy another installment of our popular segment Masonic Conspiracies, brought to you by Brother Robert Johnson. Brother Johnson is the producer of the Masonic Podcast "Whence Came You?" and is the Managing Editor of "The Midnight Freemasons". You can also follow him on Facebook and Twitter. | |||
| 13 Dec 2013 | Freemasonry in Hollywood | A Conversation with Bro. Joseph James | Part 2 | 00:36:35 | |
We have seen Freemasonry portrayed in film before, in movies like National Treasure and Dan Brown's Angels & Demons. But now, a new film by a fellow Freemason brings freemasonry to the spotlight in an exciting suspense film called The Freemason. This is part 2 of a 2 part interview (part 1) with a prolific entrepreneur, who will surely inspire you to reach out for your dreams, regardless of how impossible they might seem.We continue our conversation with the executive producer of The Freemason Movie. In this portion of the interview, we talk more in depth about the three films that Joseph James has created in the relatively short, yet prolific filmmaking career. You will listen to Bro. James' experience working with the celebrated actor Sean Astin, who worked on such films as The Lord of the Rings, Rudy and Goonies. We explore the virtue of Resourcefulness, which can take us from where we are to where we want to be. When we are not held back by what we lack, but instead move forward appreciating and wisely utilizing what we do have. You can learn more about The Freemason Movie by visiting its website www.TheFreemasonMovie.com , visit Joseph James Pages on Facebook www.FB.com/TheFreemasonMovie and www.FB.com/JosephJamesFilms. Follow him on Twitter @JosephJamesNews Here is the official preview of the movie. If you missed part 1 of this interview, you can listen to it here. If you don't want to miss future episodes of The Winding Stairs, make sure you sign up for our email updates to be among the first notified when new episodes and posts are published. Bonus: When you sign up for our newsletter, you also receive a FREE COPY of our book "Masonic Light Resource Report" Sign up here. Also on this episode: Masonic Conspiracies by Bro:. Robert Johnson Enjoy another installment of our popular segment Masonic Conspiracies, brought to you by Brother Robert Johnson. Brother Johnson is the producer of the Masonic Podcast "Whence Came You?" and is the Managing Editor of "The Midnight Freemasons". You can also follow him on Facebook and Twitter. | |||
| 08 Jan 2014 | New Year Revolution | Rethinking The New Year’s Resolutions | 00:26:58 | |
Imagine traveling through space at 67,000 miles per hour. That is how fast this pale blue dot is traveling through space, making its yearly orbit around the sun. We all get very excited about the end of one year and the beginning of another. But, do we ever stop to think what this really means? It is very likely that you, along with millions of people around the world, have considered which things you can change in your life this upcoming year. In this episode of The Winding Stairs, we discuss the relationship between the "REVOLUTION" of Planet Earth around the Sun and our "Resolve" to improve our life. Are New Year Resolutions really worth it? If you make some, are you likely to keep them? Is there any way to increase the odds of feeling accomplished at the end of this 365 day cycle? These are some of the questions answered in this episode of The Winding Stairs Masonic Podcast. Before we get to these good questions, let's return to the space travel thing. As you probably know, among the liberal arts and sciences that Masons are encouraged to study, we find Astronomy. But why? Why is it important for a Mason to learn about Astronomy? I want to point out two specific reasons: Perspective and Perspective. (Yes, the redundancy was intentional). Perspective 1: The observation and recognition of our place in the universe. First, it helps us recognize the grandeur of our Creator. Through the study of Astronomy, we can recognize how incredibly vast the universe is and how small our role in the history of the universe is. This is not meant to be depressing or discouraging, it is however, a way for us to recognize the importance of working together and spending our time wisely. When we tune in and appreciate the natural world around us, we are therefore more connected and in tune with our creator. Is there a purpose to our existence in this vast universe? We may never know the answer to this age old question. However, I believe that we should spend our days pursuing worthwhile causes and working on perfecting our life, so as to fulfill our purpose, if there is one to fulfill. Perspective 2: The observation and recognition of patterns around us. To the prehistoric man, recognizing the patterns of the heavens and their relations to the seasons and the weather was a matter of life and death. To our ancient Brethren, understanding the cycles of the moon allowed them to travel safely on through a moonlit path to meet in Lodge for education and fellowship. Through the observation of the heavens and the cycle that accompany it, Mankind has been able to adapt to the changing patterns of weather and adjust their lifestyle accordingly. When we changed from a hunter-gatherer society to an agricultural one, recognizing the changing patterns of weather allowed us to be more efficient in our labor. This knowledge allowed mankind to increase the yields during harvest and dedicate more time to other intellectual and spiritual pursuits. Pattern Recognition and our ability to improve ourselves. Just like the agricultural societies could observe patterns and adjust their behavior to increase their productivity and consequent harvest yields, when we pay attention to the patterns that govern our life, we also have the potential of living more fulfilling and fruitful lives. As we become more familiar with the virtues that we can acquire and the vices that might prevent us from attaining them, we can then adjust our life accordingly to become more virtuous and honorable men. Among the benefits of patter recognition we can find: Recognizing patterns allows us to make better plans for the future. You can modify your behavior wisely. Reduction of risk in future endeavours. Increase self awareness and higher probability of sustainable change. Are New Year Resolutions Obsolete? I don't think so! Here is why. Although I believe that we should always have a malleable disposition to create resolutions, | |||
| 28 Feb 2014 | Art in Freemasonry | The power of symbols and creativity | 00:37:21 | |
ART IN FREEMASONRY The Power of Symbols and Creativity in Freemasonry By now you probably already know how important art is to Freemasonry, but there are several reasons why. The way in which Freemasonry delivers its lessons, is through allegories illustrated by symbols. Therefore, there are many stories, which are easier to remember than simply pure facts and those allegories have their respective symbols. By this way, one only has to look at the symbol, which recalls the story associated with it and thereby the applicable lessons to our life. "Freemasonry is a Science of Morality, Veiled in Allegory and Illustrated by Symbols" [clear-line]Therefore, it is important that not only we expose ourselves to the symbols depicted in Lodge, but also that we incorporate into our surroundings, those symbols and thereby those lessons, which help us become the best version of ourselves. Regardless whether the symbols you surround yourself with are in the form of Jewelry, Masonic Paintings or auto emblems, the important thing is that these symbols are there to aid you in your effort to improve yourself as you travel through life. In this episode we discuss the following topics: I share some of my recent experiences while traveling for speaking engagements. A archaeological discovery that suggests that Neanderthals might have been the authors of cave art dating back over 40,000 years. The power of art to shape a person’s life. How as creators, we can put our talents to work to inspire others to become better. The fulfillment derived from Masonic Travel. The efficiency of using symbols to help the spectator recollect lessons, stories and ideas. Art in Freemasonry extends beyond the symbols used to illustrate our lessons. Other artistic mediums like Poetry, Painting and Music have been used efficiently to share Masonic Education. How Art has helped me cope with difficult things in my life and share a story that could help others get through their difficult times in life. IS FACEBOOK CONTROLLED BY THE FREEMASONS? We have another Masonic Conspiracy by Bro. Robert Johnson from Whence Came You? Podcast. On this episode, Bro. Johnson talks about a conspiracy that claims that Facebook has achieved in 10 years, what the CIA was not able to do since its inception. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED ON THIS EPISODE: The Winding Stairs Email Newsletter (Get eBook, FREE) Product Research Gear, LLC. Whence Came You Podcast The Midnight Freemasons The Masonic Roundtable (YouTube Channel) The Masonic Roundtable (Facebook Page) The Winding Stairs (Facebook Page) The Winding Stairs (On Twitter) National Geographic Article (42,000 Year Old Cave paintings in Spain) The Freemason Movie Interview FreemasonryArt.com This program is made possible by FreemasonryArt.com - An online store of products made by Masons for Masons. It features a selection of original Masonic Paintings, Limited Edition artwork and Genuine Lambskin Aprons, available only through FreemasonryArt.com Imagine yourself walking into the next stated meeting wearing a custom painted Masonic Apron, like the ones we see displayed in museums. We invite you to look at our collection and support The Winding Stairs through your purchase. Go to www.FreemasonryArt.com | |||
| 29 Apr 2014 | Map of Thieves | A Conversation with Bro. Michael Karpovage | 00:47:43 | |
Interview with Artist and Author Michael Karpovage On this episode of The Winding Stairs I interview Brother Michael Karpovage. Author, illustrator and entrepreneur, who's work has been influenced by Freemasonry. Join me as I have an insightful conversation with a fellow artist, who happens to be a Mason. Some of the topics discussed in this episode: Bro: Michael's beginnings in art and the early life decisions that led him there. How he stumbled upon a member of the fraternity and asked. The influence Freemasonry has had in his life and his literary work. We discuss some amazing stories of Freemasons who confronted and aided each other during various wars in America. We discuss further his passion for military history and the role that Freemasonry played therein. Learn how Freemasonry has made Bro. Karpovage a different man. The First Native American to ever join our Fraternity. This episode of The Winding Stairs was made possible by MasonicFundraiser.com If you are interested in purchasing Bro:. Karpovage's work, please use the links below. *Disclaimer: The links to the products listed above are affiliate links. This will not affect the final price you pay for these items, However, I will receive a small commission from your purchase. Let it be known that the fact that I may receive a small commission on these and other products through the site, does not affect my views of the products mentioned. Making these affiliate links simply help keep the program alive. Thank you for your continued support of the program. To learn more about Bro:. Michael Karpovage's work, visit: KarpovageCreative.com Don't forget to participate in the question at the bottom of this post for a chance to win a surprise gift from Bro:. Michael. If you enjoyed this post and would like to be among the first to know when we publish new episodes of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, make sure to sign up for our email newsletter. By signing up you also receive a free copy of our Masonic Light Resource Report. Click Below to sign up now. Your voice is very important to us Join the conversation in our various social media channels. Share your thoughts on this... What has been the most influential book you have ever read? -Please share your answers below- | |||
| 13 Jun 2014 | Masonic Travels | A conversation among Brothers (Including you!). | 00:28:06 | |
The Importance of your Masonic Travels An inside look at a Masonic Conversation while traveling. On this episode of The Winding Stairs, you will join Brother Juan Sepulveda and Brother Victor Rosario by riding along on a road trip. While driving to Columbus Georgia for a speaking engagement in February 2014, The Traveling Bros had the good idea (in our biased opinion) to record a conversation to give the listeners an inside look into what our conversations can be like. We hope that you enjoy the conversation and are able to imagine yourself riding along with us. Among the topics discussed in this episode you will find: Why Masonic Leadership is suffering in some Lodges. Why membership in some Lodges is dwindling, while it is growing exponentially in others. What are things that can be done to increase visibility of the Lodge in the community. You get out of Freemasonry what you put in. Bridging the gap of expectations experienced by new candidates and newly initiated Brothers. The importance of Masonic Traveling. The richness that is acquired through your Masonic Travels. Travel, Travel, Travel! Fundraiser Opportunity for Your Lodge This episode of The Winding Stairs was made possible by MasonicFundraiser.com Download our Free Book when you Sign up for our email newsletter. If you enjoyed this post and would like to be among the first to know when we publish new episodes of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, make sure to sign up for our email newsletter. By signing up you also receive a free copy of our Masonic Light Resource Report. Click Below to sign up now. Your voice is very important to us Join the conversation in our various social media channels. Share your thoughts on this... What suggestions would you have for a Lodge which is experiencing a decline in membership? -Please share your answers below- | |||
| 25 Jul 2014 | Bridging the Gap of Expectations | Avoid disappointment | 00:24:58 | |
Bridging the Gap of Expectations in Freemasonry Avoiding disappointment and making the journey more fulfilling Before Men join Freemasonry, they might have an expectation of what really happens behind closed doors. That expectation, often-times fantastic and unrealistic, tends to be shaped by misinformation and ignorance. A members of this Fraternal organization, we should understand before hand, what people expect of us and how much of those expectations we can actually meet. Are you tired of hearing people bad-mouthing our Order? Did you expect things out of Freemasonry, which never materialized? Is there anything you can do as an individual to curve the erroneous expectations that people have of us? These are some of the questions we explore in this episode of The Winding Stairs and hope that you are able to find good answers that can help you make a real difference. The Candidate Before being given admittance into our Lodges, the candidates might have a very fantastic idea of what really happens behind our closed doors. Doors guarded by a Tyler must be holding back all kinds of awesome, right? Well, although our ritual is amazing and contains great lessons that have the potential of changing a Man's life forever, some candidates might have been aligning their expectations with movies and books, which is a recipe for inevitable disappointment. If we can better understand these preconceived expectations, then we can either work diligently to meet them or help the candidate curve his expectations and shift his focus to the great assets contained within our walls. Some of the things that people expect of our fraternity are supposed to be there but have been either neglected or ignored for various reasons. Here is where we have room for improvement and have the young impressionable mind of the candidate in our hands. The Newly Initiated Brother is thirsty for knowledge and oftentimes overwhelmed by data. It is essential that we understand the individual reasons each new Brother had to knock at our door. Some join for the pride of following in their Father's footsteps, others are desirous of the camaraderie and Brotherly love and others come to fulfill a deep desire for the Esoteric and the knowledge of the ages. With this information in mind, we can ensure that Brothers are receiving that for which they came to Freemasonry and do not leave dissatisfied. Our membership numbers would be much more impressive if everyone made it his commitment to find a Brother and ensure his expectations of Freemasonry are being met. The Lodge Officer Finally, Lodge officers might begin their Journey due East with great expectations of what they will achieve once they are sitting in the Worshipful Master's seat. They might have seen how other Brothers who came before managed their year as Masters and begin crafting a plan to achieve the previously impossible. However, the real focus should be on doing the best work in each of the chairs of the Lodge Officers. Understanding what are the expectations of you as a Lodge Officer in your respective chair, meeting and exceeding those expectations. Therein lies the great achievement of your Journey due east. That you best worked on every step of the way. | |||
| 04 Aug 2014 | Bridging the Gap of Wisdom | Division and Deficiency | 00:24:54 | |
Bridging the Gap of Wisdom Second installment of the Bridging the Gap Series On the first installment of the series Bridging the Gap, we discussed how disappointment can be detrimental to the progress of a Mason. Disappointment can discourage a Man's pursuit of further goals, because it is a natural reaction to avoid those things which cause us pain or discomfort. In particular, Brothers who become disillusioned with Freemasonry, because of the seemingly unbridgeable gap that exists between his expectations and what actually happens behind a Tyled door. On this segment of the series, I want to speak about the gap of Wisdom, which exists between some groups of Brothers within the Lodge. I have identified that this gap of Wisdom manifests itself in at least two ways, which I categorize as Division and Deficiency. It is hoped that, if you identify any of these wisdom gaps within your Lodge, you act as a catalyst for change and begin labor to restore unity. After all, if we all take personal responsibility for the portion of labor which corresponds to each one of us, then our organization can shift focus from within and increase the labor that we do for those outside of our Temple's walls. Division: We meet on the level, but sit at separate tables. As Masons we all know that we meet On The Level; However, if you pay close attention to stated communications and events, you might notice a pattern emerge. You may notice that often there are tables with only past masters and while other tables only contain the youngest Entered Apprentices (E.As.). Although there is nothing wrong with spending time with people who share the same experiences we do, it is important that we are mindful of the needs that exist, even within the festive boards and fundraiser events. Yes, there should be a level of respect demonstrated towards the offices these more-experienced Brothers hold, but it should not interfere with our ability to partake in Fellowship and Brotherly Love. I have never been to a Lodge where I felt unwelcome or marginalized. However, it is almost inevitable to see the segmentation of the attendees of any meeting, to the degree in which you can almost guess their age, degree and appendant body affiliation. It goes without saying that the more often this happens, the longer the Wisdom gap remains between these various groups of Brothers. One remedy is for the young E.As. to be encouraged to approach any and all Brothers within the Lodge and during Masonic Events, especially if we want to continue to claim that we ALL meet on the Level. Yes, there should be a level of respect demonstrated towards the offices these more-experienced Brothers hold, but it should not interfere with our ability to partake in Fellowship and Brotherly Love. This is, of course, a two-way street. If you have enjoyed the great privilege of being entrusted with a leadership position within your Lodge, District or Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, then with more reason you should feel inclined to demonstrate what meeting on the Level is all about. I found a beautiful description of the commitment we should have, as Masonic Leaders, to the upcoming generations of Masons. It is a portion of a lecture delivered by Albert Pike at the Grand Lodge of Louisiana in February of 1858. "To sow, that others may reap; to work and plant for those that are to occupy the earth when we are dead; to project our good influences far into the future, and to live beyond our time; to rule as the Kings of Thought over men who are yet unborn; to bless with the glorious gifts of Truth and Light, and Liberty, those who may never know the name of the giver, nor care in what grave his unregarded ashes repose, is the true office of a Mason, and the proudest destiny of a man.".1 Deficiency: Scarcity amidst abundance We are proud members of an ancient Fraternity, whose focus is to share Light with men who want to illuminate their own path. | |||
| 04 Sep 2014 | Bridging the Inner Gap | Look inside yourself | 00:35:39 | |
Bridging the Inner Gap Look Inside Yourself It is sometimes easier to look at circumstances outside ourselves to blame for what happens in our life. But many times the problems in which we find ourselves is a direct result of things that are happening within us. As we continue exploring the podcast series Bridging the Gap, we turn our sights inward after two episodes of looking at circumstances outside of us. We have looked at how a Gap of Expectations and a Gap of Wisdom can interfere with our progress in life. Today we look at our own shortcomings and make a commitment to diligently bridge our Inner Gap to become the ultimate version of ourselves. Among the topics discussed in this episode you will find: Being brought from darkness to light liberates our vision. Circumspection: Symbol: The Circumpunct |Keeping your passions within due bounds. Definition: Thinking carefully about possible risks before doing or saying something. (Merriam Webster) Unwillingness or Wariness to take risk. Prudence (Oxford). Your Sphere of influence Circumpunct: You are the point within the circle. Circumambulation: The act of walking around something. Especially ritualistically. Circumambulation happens in Masonic ritual and practice. Initiation Degree Team Officers as they move through their chairs. Introspection: Look inside yourself. “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” - Aristotle “Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” - C.G. Jung Haggai 1:5-7 Now therefore, thus says the LORD of hosts, "Consider your ways! "You have sown much, but harvest little; you eat, but there is not enough to be satisfied; you drink, but there is not enough to become drunk; you put on clothing, but no one is warm enough; and he who earns, earns wages to put into a purse with holes." Thus says the LORD of hosts, "Consider your ways! Seeing yourself in others. The Epictetus “When you are offended at any man's fault, turn to yourself and study your own failings. Then you will forget your anger.” - Epictetus, Greek Stoic Philosopher. Retrospection: Looking into the past. Looking at your own past. It doesn't define you. Having a history of intolerance or impatience shouldn't define your future. Links Mentioned in this episode: If you are looking for Masonic Fundraiser ideas for your Lodge or Appendant Body, visit MasonicFundraiser.com to sign up FREE for our exclusive fundraiser program. Download our Free Book, Masonic Light Resource Report Do you want to be among the first to be notified when my New Book is released, click here to sign up for my email newsletter. View our latest artwork titled "Light of Wisdom", which is dedicated to Past Masters and would make a great gift. Visit FreemasonryArt.com This Episode of The Winding Stairs was brought to you by MasonicFundraiser.com Do you have any advice for others who might need to look inside and bridge the gaps that affect them? Have you found the Bridging the Gap Series useful? Do you have a favorite episode in this series? Please add your comments below to help us gauge the usefulness of these posts. I look forward to your feedback. Photo Credits: Cracked Wall (Main Illustration) by Leonardo Aguiar, licensed under CC by 2.0 | |||
| 09 Sep 2014 | Chipping at The Stone | An introduction | 00:11:52 | |
Chipping at The Stone Progress is found in the repetition of small strikes. We are that rough ashlar hewned from the Quarry. But our journey to become part of a perfect building doesn't happen abruptly. It is through small, calculated changes, which remove the superfluities from our life. Are you not making fast progress in becoming a better Man and Mason? Don't worry, you are not in this journey alone. In this episode of The Winding Stairs, I share some stories that prove that we are all in this together. That we serve as inspiration to one another and that by being witnesses to each other's progress, we become a more perfect ashlar. This episode of The Winding Stairs is the first of a series of shorter episodes created to continue the conversation about self-improvement. How can we utilize the teachings of all ages into changing the way in which we Act and React in life. Chipping at the Stone is a series of shorter episodes -10 to 15 minutes- which will be published between some of the more lengthy episodes. If you enjoyed this brief installment of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, please let us know in the comments section below. In this episode we discuss: The Introduction of Chipping at the Stone program format. A funny story about a mishap I had while recording Episode 20 of The Winding Stairs. We are human after all. Keeping our passions within due bounds is not easy! The Blue Screen of Death is still alive and well. Brother Jon Ruark's of The Masonic Roundtable and his exploration of the deeper symbolism of The Circumpunct (Point within a Circle). This episode of The Winding Stairs is made possible in part by: -Learn more about Masonic Fundraiser- Follow us on: Twitter: @WindingStairs33 Facebook: @MasonicFundraiser Questions from the Quarry: Do you have a favorite Masonic Symbol or Lesson which helps you in your daily life? -Share your thoughts below- | |||
| 11 Oct 2014 | Lessons from My Mother | 00:23:30 | |
Lessons from My Mother Chipping at The Stone I have to admit that I was very fortunate to have the Mother I had. She was very wise and charismatic. She was very talented and inspiring. I owe a lot to her for the Man I turned out to be and I hope that I am able to make her proud with the decisions I make in my life. I was very fortunate to spend the time I did with her before she was taken away too soon by Breast Cancer. I recorded this episode on October 10th, which would have been her Birthday. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and while I recorded, I didn't want to remember Breast Cancer Awareness Month in a somber and depressing way. Instead, I wanted to remember some great lessons that she imparted on me. You will find parallels from her lessons, which those included in Freemasonry. As you listen to this episode of The Winding Stairs, I hope that you are able to get to know a little more about the kind of Woman my mother was and how her efforts helped me want to become a better Man. In this episode we discuss: Industry: How having an industrious disposition can help you achieve many things. Perseverance: How when we focus on our goals and use obstacles as motivators, we can surpass our expectations. Trust in God: In our journey through life, our trust in God is what fuels our industry and solidifies our perseverance. This episode of The Winding Stairs is made possible by FreemasonryArt.com Here is an example of some of the work you will find at FreemasonryArt.com. The official store of The Winding Stairs and your source for Masonic Art and Hand-Painted Aprons. What lessons did you receive from your parents, which helped you become who you are today? | |||
| 23 Oct 2014 | Unfinished Books | 5 tips to tackle them | 00:14:45 | |
Unfinished Books Do you have a collection of books which you have not finished reading? Does it almost feel like that stack of books is calling out to you to finish reading them? That's how I feel too. On this episode of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, I share with you 5 tips to go through that stack of unfinished books and increase the number of them that you actually finish. Of course, there are books which are better skimmed or used as reference books. Those you don't have to finish, but there might be a few others which are begging to become a part of your intellect. "If we encounter a man of great intellect, we must ask him what books he reads." -Ralph Waldo Emerson Often times books contain all the fuel we need to keep our intellect burning. In books we may find the solutions to our most pressing challenges. Yet, even when we know how beneficial it can be to make progress through that growing stack of books, we sometimes just ignore those tomes. On this episode of The Winding Stairs, I share with you 5 Tips to Tackle Those Unfinished Books Assign Priorities Block Out Time Don't Read Alone Make Reading Tempting Mark it! I have found these tips to be actionable and helpful for anyone who has lost control of their reading material. Take them and implement them in your new-found determination to go through those books. I will be doing the same here; trying to gain control once again over what I read, how often and how I do it. Won't you join me in this effort to make good use of these valuable resources that surround us. This Post is Brought to you by Are you prepared to enter The Chamber? Save the date: 12 - 13 - 14 What is The Chamber? The Chamber is one of the biggest and most exciting projects that The Winding Stairs has been involved in. Only a select few will gain access to The Chamber. Will you be one? To receive an invitation to the special unveiling event of The Chamber, click on the image below and sign up to receive email updates from The Winding Stairs. Sign up now, before the doors closes for everyone. Let us know what will you be reading next? Do you need any suggestion for books to add to your stack begin reading? Share your thoughts with us and join us in this journey of enlightenment. | |||
| 31 Oct 2014 | Walter, The Ghost of the Retlaw Hotel | 00:26:29 | |
Walter, The Ghost of the Retlaw Hotel How the Life and Legacy of a Brother Lives On It is prudent to remember that our time on this Earth is finite. That we ought to be diligent in improving ourselves in order to contribute to the life of those who surround us. Today I introduce you to Bro. Walter Schroeder, a man who decades after his death is giving people something to talk about. On this episode of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, I share a portion of the life of Bro. Walter, a Businessman, Civic Leader, Philanthropist and… Ghost? Is there a Ghost haunting the Retlaw Hotel? On this special episode of The Winding Stairs, I have the pleasure of presenting to you a Brother who, by living a life of industry, was able to create a fortune and build something of which we are still in awe. You will gain a better understanding about who was Walter Schroeder and will hear about the stories being told about his restless spirit. Some people believe that Walter still visits some of the buildings that are part of his Legacy. Mainly, the Retlaw Plaza Hotel in Fond Du Lac, WI. It only takes a quick search on the internet to find the stories that have immortalized this man. When I look at his life history, I am amazed at how much he was able to accomplish. Among his achievements you will find: Reporter Hotelier Philantropist Freemason Ghost? Yes, you read that right... Ghost! Many people claim that when you visit the Retlaw Plaza Hotel, you have a good chance of experiencing the supernatural. Listen to the details in this episode of The Winding Stairs. Links Mentioned in this episode: Retlaw Plaza Hotel, Fond Du Lac, WI Humphrey Scottish Rite Masonic Center | The Schroeder Lounge Walter Schroeder YMCA Aquatic Center, If you are looking for Masonic Fundraiser ideas for your Lodge or Appendant Body, visit MasonicFundraiser.com to sign up FREE for our exclusive fundraiser program. Download our Free Book, Masonic Light Resource Report Do you want to be among the first to be notified when my New Book is released, click here to sign up for my email newsletter. View our latest artwork titled "Light of Wisdom", which is dedicated to Past Masters and would make a great gift. Visit FreemasonryArt.com This Episode of The Winding Stairs was brought to you by MasonicFundraiser.com What are your thoughts on this story? Do you think that these type of paranormal events are possible? Have you experienced something you can't explain? Let us know in the comment section below. Thank you for participating. | |||
| 08 Dec 2014 | Masonic Travels | No Stone Unturned | 00:35:16 | |
No Stone Unturned A Way of Life for the Traveling Brothers We often go through life in a hurry. Whether it is because of our career responsibilities, our family's expectations or our over-commitment to the various organizations we support, we can miss out on many great life experiences unless we slow down and leave no stone unturned. On this episode of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, you will become a passenger in our road trip up to Columbus Georgia. Brother Victor Rosario and I visited Columbian Lodge No. 7 earlier this year, where I gave a presentation titled "Bridging the Gap". An although the visit was a very pleasant experience, the entire trip was rich with memorable experiences because early on the trip we decided to adopt an attitude of discovery. We decided that we would not leave any stone unturned. We decided that if anything long the road attracted our attention, that we would stop and figure out what it was. The results were incredible and we can't wait for you to listen in to the conversation. We found an abandoned campground, found the tomb of a famous Mason and even had a gun pointed at us. You don't want to miss this episode. Mentioned in this episode: Listen to Episode 17, which features the original conversation we recorded on our drive to Columbus GA. We visited Columbian Lodge No. 7 F.&A.M. in Columbus Ga. Creator of Coca Cola, Brother John Stith Pemberton. The man we met who was sitting on his porch is Jamie Boswell Howard Support The Winding Stairs by visiting FreemasonryArt.com Do you have more than one #Masonic pin? Of course you do! It is no mystery that we love our pins. Every pin tells a story and deserves to be seen. Don't keep your pins hidden in a dark drawer, bring them to Light by displaying them on The Winding Stairs' Pin Display Apron. (Great Gift Idea) Order Yours today! | |||
| 05 Feb 2015 | Bound By Rituals | Good Men and Good Habits | 00:21:09 | |
Bound by Rituals How rituals influence Freemasonry, Society and our Personal Life. Rituals are extremely important in Freemasonry, but the importance of ritual extends far beyond into all aspects of our life. When we think of rituals, we often limit our imagination to spiritual ceremonies, but we engage in rituals on a daily basis. Do you have a specific set of steps that you follow every morning when you wake up? Do you have a predetermined sequence of things you do when you prepare to go out? Rituals have a profound effect in the way we enjoy life and the value that we attribute to the experiences we have. On this episode of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, we explore the role that rituals play in Freemasonry, in our society and in our own personal lives. This is the first episode in a series which will explore the fascinating relation between rituals and the quality of our life. We are bound by rituals in a positive way and sometimes in a negative way. Listen to this episode for a detailed explanation. Links mentioned on this episode: Living Stones Masonic Magazine: We would like to thank the sponsor of this episode, Living Stones Magazine. A monthly publication featuring great articles related to Freemasonry. FreemasonryArt.com: Here you will find a growing collection of Masonic Art inspired by the lessons and history of Freemasonry. Infinite Third: If you enjoyed the music featured on this episode of The Winding Stairs, we invite you to explore the music of Billy Mays III and Infinite Third. The Masonic Roundtable: A weekly program dedicated to Masonic News and Opinions by Brothers from around the country. On YouTube at Masonic Roundtable. Have You Downloaded Your Free Book Yet? Questions from the Quarry Do you have any rituals, outside of Masonry, which help you be more productive? -Share your thoughts with us- | |||
| 02 Mar 2015 | Illuminati Rituals Revealed | A Conversation with Bro. Josef Wages | 00:30:56 | |
Illuminati Rituals Revealed An interview with Bro:. Josef Wages, Editor of the book The Secret School of Wisdom How many times have you heard some outlandish Pop Culture claim about the Illuminati? The liberty with which people claim that there is a Secret Elite Group of people conspiring to bring about a New World Order, is simply fascinating. Is Beyonce and JayZ at the pinnacle of this great conspiracy? Are all these Hip Hop artists being murdered by this secret organization? I think the answer is, NO! But you don't have to take my word for it. We are fortunate that the truth of the existence and practice of the Bavarian Order of the Illuminati has been compiled into one masterful book, which will clarify many of the serious misconceptions about the Illuminati. Is the Illuminati an evil organization? Do Illuminati Rituals include devil worship? Did the Illuminati advocate for the overthrow of the government? Is the elimination of Religion a core commitment of this secretive order? Did they plan for Global Depopulation? The answer to these and many more questions are contained in an exclusive interview I had with Bro. Josef Wages. He is the editor of the newly-released book The Secret School of Wisdom: The Authentic Rituals and Doctrines of the Illuminati. Mentioned in this episode: To learn more about the authentic Illuminati Rituals buy Josef Wages' Book "The Secret School of Wisdom" visit IlluminatiRegalia.com The music featured in this episode of The Winding Stairs was brought to you courtesy of Billy Mays III | Infinite Third Listen to Infinite Third on SoundCloud Find Infinite Third on Facebook Living Stones | A monthly magazine by Freemasons for Freemasons. LivingStonesMagazine.com Listen to The Masonic Roundtable for Masonic News and Discussions by 5 Brothers from around the U.S. Support The Winding Stairs by visiting FreemasonryArt.com Do you have more than one #Masonic pin? Of course you do! It is no mystery that we love our pins. Every pin tells a story and deserves to be seen. Don't keep your pins hidden in a dark drawer, bring them to Light by displaying them on The Winding Stairs' Pin Display Apron. (Great Gift Idea) Order Yours today! I am very proud to introduce the Liberal Arts and Sciences Collection by Juan Sepulveda, Exclusively on The Winding Stairs Masonic Store. I began the collection with these five pieces, because they hold a special place in my life. Visit the collection page to see the deep symbolism that I have hidden in each and every piece. When you add these artworks to your collection, you will be exposed to symbols that remind you of the importance of having a well rounded education. The Trivium and the Quadrivium hold the kind of wisdom that set minds free from bondage and directed them to leave a legacy of greatness. Surround yourself with this wisdom today. go to FreemasonryArt.com and order your collection. | |||
| 06 Apr 2015 | Art in Freemasonry | The pillar of beauty | 00:29:23 | |
Art in Freemasonry | The Pillar of Beauty Masonic Artist Ryan J Flynn joins us for an informative conversation about the importance of Art in Freemasonry. The Masonic Lodge is supported by three pillars, which are Wisdom, Strength and Beauty. Great importance should be given to each one of these, as they have a very important purpose in the instruction of the Mason. We have inherited a rich Artistic history in Freemasonry, but the Pillar of Beauty can often be neglected in the pursuit of strength and wisdom. How prominently does Art figure in your Lodge? On this episode of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, we have the privilege of exploring the topic of Art in Freemasonry with our talented Brother Ryan J Flynn. Join us, as we discuss the answers to these questions: Is Art an effective teaching tool in Masonry? Are Masonic Artists violating their obligation while depicting lessons of The Craft? What is the historical significance of Art in Freemasonry? What is the current state of the Arts in our Fraternity? Are Masonic Artists using the symbols to get rich? What role does social media play in our Craft? From where do we derive inspiration when creating art? The answer to these and many more questions are contained in an exclusive video interview I had with Bro. Ryan J Flynn. Bro:. Flynn is the artist behind the Illuminated Patents and The Codex Series. Do you enjoy The Winding Stairs? Please take one minute to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes: www.TheWindingStairs.com/iTunes Mentioned on this episode: To learn more about Bro:. Ryan J Flynn's artwork, visit: www.RyanJFlynn.com The music featured in this episode of The Winding Stairs was brought to you courtesy of Billy Mays III | Infinite Third Listen to Infinite Third on SoundCloud Find Infinite Third on Facebook Living Stones | A monthly magazine by Freemasons for Freemasons. LivingStonesMagazine.com Listen to The Masonic Roundtable for Masonic News and Discussions by 5 Brothers from around the U.S. To Support The Winding Stairs visit www.FreemasonryArt.com Do you have more than one #Masonic pin? Of course you do! It is no mystery that we love our pins. Every pin tells a story and deserves to be seen. Don't keep your pins hidden in a dark drawer, bring them to Light by displaying them on The Winding Stairs' Pin Display Apron. (Great Gift Idea) Order Yours today! I am very proud to introduce the Liberal Arts and Sciences Collection by Juan Sepulveda, Exclusively on The Winding Stairs Masonic Store. I began the collection with these five pieces, because they hold a special place in my life. Visit the collection page to see the deep symbolism that I have hidden in each and every piece. When you add these artworks to your collection, you will be exposed to symbols that remind you of the importance of having a well rounded education. The Trivium and the Quadrivium hold the kind of wisdom that set minds free from bondage and directed them to leave a legacy of greatness. Surround yourself with this wisdom today. go to FreemasonryArt.com and order your collection. | |||
| 13 Apr 2015 | The Pillar of Beauty | 5 Art Mediums in Freemasonry | 00:35:10 | |
5 Art Mediums That Support The Pillar of Beauty We continue our conversation with Masonic Artist Ryan J Flynn. Which 5 Art Mediums support the Pillar of Beauty in Freemasonry? On the second installment of our conversation with Bro. Ryan Flynn, we discuss 5 Art Mediums that help support the effective visual lessons in Masonic Education. Learn, which are our top 5 mediums for depicting lessons in Morality and Virtues. On this episode of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, we have the privilege of exploring the topic of Art in Freemasonry with our talented Brother Ryan J Flynn. Join us, as we discuss the answers to these questions: Which art mediums are effective in teaching Masonic Truths? How are Tracing Boards used to teach candidates? How has art evolved in Freemasonry? What are early uses of Art in Masonic Education? What can a talented Brother do to support his Lodge? The answer to these and many more questions are contained in an exclusive video interview I had with Bro. Ryan J Flynn. Bro:. Flynn is the artist behind the Illuminated Patents and The Codex Series. Do you enjoy The Winding Stairs? Please take one minute to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes: www.TheWindingStairs.com/iTunes Mentioned on this episode: To learn more about Bro:. Ryan J Flynn's artwork, visit: www.RyanJFlynn.com The music featured in this episode of The Winding Stairs was brought to you courtesy of Billy Mays III | Infinite Third Listen to Infinite Third on SoundCloud Find Infinite Third on Facebook To see my personal collection of Masonic Art visit FreemasonryArt.com Listen to The Masonic Roundtable for Masonic News and Discussions by 5 Brothers from around the U.S. To Support The Winding Stairs visit www.FreemasonryArt.com Do you have more than one #Masonic pin? Of course you do! It is no mystery that we love our pins. Every pin tells a story and deserves to be seen. Don't keep your pins hidden in a dark drawer, bring them to Light by displaying them on The Winding Stairs' Pin Display Apron. (Great Gift Idea) Order Yours today! I am very proud to introduce the Liberal Arts and Sciences Collection by Juan Sepulveda, Exclusively on The Winding Stairs Masonic Store. I began the collection with these five pieces, because they hold a special place in my life. Visit the collection page to see the deep symbolism that I have hidden in each and every piece. When you add these artworks to your collection, you will be exposed to symbols that remind you of the importance of having a well rounded education. The Trivium and the Quadrivium hold the kind of wisdom that set minds free from bondage and directed them to leave a legacy of greatness. Surround yourself with this wisdom today. go to FreemasonryArt.com and order your collection. | |||
| 20 Apr 2015 | Chipping at the Stone | Replacing Habits | 00:15:38 | |
Replacing Habits Hijacking the triggers that keep you stuck! We are creatures of habits. Sometimes we unconsciously fall into cycles and habits that are very challenging to overcome. It is not that we are not strong enough, but the mechanism by which we adopt these habits is very effective and to be able to replace these behaviors, we need to understand how it all works. I recorded this brief installment of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, while going out for a jog. As soon as I was done running, I spontaneously decided to record some of my thoughts on the subject of habit-replacement. On this episode, we are Chipping at the Stone, like in previous episodes. This is a shorter version of our normal-length episodes, in which I share some actionable technique to help you chip away at your imperfections and become a more perfect stone. Since January I have been focusing on the subject of Rituals and Behaviors, because i want to better understand how our brain works and how I can use that knowledge to help my self-improvement and by consequence share my findings with you. I hope you find this episode entertaining and enlightening. If you want to learn more about the concepts of replacing bad habits with good ones, I recommend that you read the book The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg. I enjoyed it and learned a lot about hijacking the triggers that usually remind us to engage on the bad habits adopted by making predetermined decisions on what our behavior will be once we encounter those triggers. [clear] Do you enjoy The Winding Stairs? Please take one minute to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes: www.TheWindingStairs.com/iTunes Mentioned on this episode: The music featured in this episode of The Winding Stairs was brought to you courtesy of Billy Mays III | Infinite Third Listen to Infinite Third on SoundCloud Find Infinite Third on Facebook To see my personal collection of Masonic Art visit FreemasonryArt.com Listen to The Masonic Roundtable for Masonic News and Discussions by 5 Brothers from around the U.S. To Support The Winding Stairs visit www.FreemasonryArt.com Do you have more than one #Masonic pin? Of course you do! It is no mystery that we love our pins. Every pin tells a story and deserves to be seen. Don't keep your pins hidden in a dark drawer, bring them to Light by displaying them on The Winding Stairs' Pin Display Apron. (Great Gift Idea) Order Yours today! I am very proud to introduce the Liberal Arts and Sciences Collection by Juan Sepulveda, Exclusively on The Winding Stairs Masonic Store. I began the collection with these five pieces, because they hold a special place in my life. Visit the collection page to see the deep symbolism that I have hidden in each and every piece. When you add these artworks to your collection, you will be exposed to symbols that remind you of the importance of having a well rounded education. The Trivium and the Quadrivium hold the kind of wisdom that set minds free from bondage and directed them to leave a legacy of greatness. Surround yourself with this wisdom today. go to FreemasonryArt.com and order your collection. | |||
| 19 May 2015 | Chipping at the Stone | Measured Improvements | 00:15:48 | |
Measured Improvements You can't improve what you don't measure. As we continue to mature, we become aware of areas of our life that need improvement. Although we might have the right intention to improve upon those areas of our life, we may fail to make any significant progress, if we fail to keep some sort of record of our progress. We may fall into a false sense of security, that convinces us that we are making progress merely because we are aware of the situation. This is not an effective way to improve, it can be deceiving you into remaining stagnant or getting worse without really noticing. It is very difficult to continuously improve upon something that we are not tracking. On this episode of The Winding Stairs, we discuss various tricks that you can easily implement to begin making progress on those things you want to change. Remember, great distances are traveled one step at a time, but you have to be willing to take the steps to begin enjoying the benefits of divesting yourself of the superfluities that keep you from making measured improvements. [clear] Do you enjoy The Winding Stairs? Please take one minute to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes: www.TheWindingStairs.com/iTunes Mentioned on this episode: Some of the music featured in this episode of The Winding Stairs was brought to you courtesy of Billy Mays III | Infinite Third Listen to Infinite Third on SoundCloud Find Infinite Third on Facebook To see my personal collection of Masonic Art visit FreemasonryArt.com Listen to The Masonic Roundtable for Masonic News and Discussions by 5 Brothers from around the U.S. To Support The Winding Stairs visit www.FreemasonryArt.com Do you have more than one #Masonic pin? Of course you do! It is no mystery that we love our pins. Every pin tells a story and deserves to be seen. Don't keep your pins hidden in a dark drawer, bring them to Light by displaying them on The Winding Stairs' Pin Display Apron. (Great Gift Idea) Order Yours today! I am very proud to introduce the Liberal Arts and Sciences Collection by Juan Sepulveda, Exclusively on The Winding Stairs Masonic Store. I began the collection with these five pieces, because they hold a special place in my life. Visit the collection page to see the deep symbolism that I have hidden in each and every piece. When you add these artworks to your collection, you will be exposed to symbols that remind you of the importance of having a well rounded education. The Trivium and the Quadrivium hold the kind of wisdom that set minds free from bondage and directed them to leave a legacy of greatness. Surround yourself with this wisdom today. go to FreemasonryArt.com and order your collection. | |||
| 10 Nov 2016 | Behave Like A Mason | 4 critical places | 00:27:39 | |
Behave Like a MasonThe 4 Places you are expected to behave like a MasonWhere should we behave like a Mason? The answer should be simple, Everywhere. However, I selected four places where your behavior as a Mason can have a rippling effect. The benefits derived from behaving as a Mason in these specific circumstances will yield exponential benefits to your life. During this episode of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, I reveal the project that has kept me busy for the best part of this year. Please make sure to listen to the program on its entirety and share it with like-minded men. | |||
| 30 Sep 2015 | The Pact | A Conversation with a Green Beret | 00:31:34 | |
The Pact A conversation with Robert P. Lewis On this episode of The Winding Stairs, we have a conversation with Former Green Beret and Author Bro:. Robert P. Lewis. He joins us for an insightful conversation about his life journey and the role that Freemasonry has had in it. He recounts that his life changed after the events of September 11 and we will learn how those events and the subsequent decisions he made have reshaped his life. [clear] Do you enjoy The Winding Stairs? Please take one minute to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes: www.TheWindingStairs.com/iTunes Mentioned on this episode These are the two books by Robert P. Lewis that we mentioned in the interview. The Pact and "Love Me When I'm Gone". Join the new community of Men who value common courtesy and manners. Join The Gentlemen's Brotherhood To see my personal collection of Masonic Art visit FreemasonryArt.com Listen to The Masonic Roundtable for Masonic News and Discussions by 5 Brothers from around the U.S. To Support The Winding Stairs visit www.FreemasonryArt.com I am very proud to introduce my latest addition to the Liberal Arts and Sciences Collection. The piece is titled Grammar by Juan Sepulveda, Exclusively on The Winding Stairs Masonic Store. The collection began with five pieces, but now the collection is only missing Arithmetic. You should see this collection, It hold a special place in my life and I hope it will in yours as well. Visit the collection page to see the deep symbolism that I have hidden in each and every piece. When you add these artworks to your collection, you will be exposed to symbols that remind you of the importance of having a well-rounded education. The Trivium and the Quadrivium hold the kind of wisdom that set minds free from bondage and directed them to leave a legacy of greatness. Surround yourself with this wisdom today. go to FreemasonryArt.com and order your collection. Did you identify with any of the life experiences shared by Bro. Robert Lewis? -Please share your story in the comments section below. Image Credit: “130725-A-YI554-976” by USASOC Licensed by CC BY 2.0 | |||
| 30 Dec 2015 | Living Stones | A Conversation with Bro. Robert Herd | Part 1 | 00:24:44 | |
Living Stones A conversation with Robert Herd On this episode of The Winding Stairs, we have a conversation with Brother Robert Herd, publisher of Living Stones Magazine. Bro. Herd discusses his early days in Freemasonry, the importance of the Liberal Arts and Sciences in Freemasonry. For those Brothers who may not be getting from their Lodge what they expected when they initially joined, there is sound advice to make your experience significantly better. This is episode 1 of 2 from a very informative and motivating conversation I had with this incredible Brother. [clear] Do you enjoy The Winding Stairs? Please take one minute to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes: www.TheWindingStairs.com/iTunes Mentioned on this episode Brother Herd publishes one of the leading Masonic publications: Living Stones Magazine Join the new community of Men who value common courtesy and manners. Join The Gentlemen's Brotherhood To see my personal collection of Masonic Art visit FreemasonryArt.com Listen to The Masonic Roundtable for Masonic News and Discussions by 5 Brothers from around the U.S. To Support The Winding Stairs visit www.FreemasonryArt.com I am very proud to introduce my latest addition to the Liberal Arts and Sciences Collection. The piece is titled Grammar by Juan Sepulveda, Exclusively on The Winding Stairs Masonic Store. The collection began with five pieces, but now the collection is only missing Arithmetic. You should see this collection, It hold a special place in my life and I hope it will in yours as well. Visit the collection page to see the deep symbolism that I have hidden in each and every piece. When you add these artworks to your collection, you will be exposed to symbols that remind you of the importance of having a well-rounded education. The Trivium and the Quadrivium hold the kind of wisdom that set minds free from bondage and directed them to leave a legacy of greatness. Surround yourself with this wisdom today. go to FreemasonryArt.com and order your collection. Are you getting from your Lodge what you expected when you first joined? Do you have any advice for Brothers who may not feel the same way you do? -Please share your story in the comments section below. Image Credit: “Strong Foundation” by Juan Sepulveda Licensed by CC BY 2.0 | |||
| 28 Jan 2016 | Living Stones | A Conversation with Bro. Robert Herd | Part 2 | 00:23:16 | |
Living Stones A conversation with Robert Herd On this episode of The Winding Stairs, we have a conversation with Brother Robert Herd, publisher of Living Stones Magazine. Bro. Herd discusses his early days in Freemasonry, the importance of the Liberal Arts and Sciences in Freemasonry. For those Brothers who may not be getting from their Lodge what they expected when they initially joined, there is sound advice to make your experience significantly better. On this episode we discuss Bro. Herd's participation in the origin of what we know as the Traditional Observance Movement. This is episode 2 of 2 from a very informative and motivating conversation I had with this incredible Brother. [clear] Do you enjoy The Winding Stairs? Please take one minute to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes: www.TheWindingStairs.com/iTunes Mentioned in this episode Brother Herd publishes one of the leading Masonic publications: Living Stones Magazine For more information about Bro. Herd's book visit: Initiatic.guru Join the new community of Men who value common courtesy and manners. Join The Gentlemen's Brotherhood To see my personal collection of Masonic Art visit FreemasonryArt.com Listen to The Masonic Roundtable for Masonic News and Discussions by 5 Brothers from around the U.S. To Support The Winding Stairs visit www.FreemasonryArt.com I am very proud to introduce my latest addition to the Liberal Arts and Sciences Collection. The piece is titled Arithmetic by Juan Sepulveda, Exclusively on The Winding Stairs Masonic Store. You should see this collection, It hold a special place in my life and I hope it will in yours as well. Visit the collection page to see the deep symbolism that I have hidden in each and every piece. When you add these artworks to your collection, you will be exposed to symbols that remind you of the importance of having a well-rounded education. The Trivium and the Quadrivium hold the kind of wisdom that set minds free from bondage and directed them to leave a legacy of greatness. Surround yourself with this wisdom today. go to FreemasonryArt.com and order your collection. Are you getting from your Lodge what you expected when you first joined? Do you have any advice for Brothers who may not feel the same way you do? -Please share your story in the comments section below. Image Credit: “Strong Foundation” by Juan Sepulveda Licensed by CC BY 2.0 | |||
| 14 Aug 2013 | Masonic Education | 5 simple steps to improve your experience | 00:32:47 | |
5 Simple Tips to help improve your Masonic Education Experience As you already know, the stability of a building is dependent on the strength of its foundation. Similarly, the educational foundation of every newly-initiated Mason is equally as important to their growth and progression through life. I have seen many Brothers who, soon after being accommodated in the North East corner of the Lodge, are anxious to rush through the Degrees of Craft Masonry. They are anxious to get through their memory work, to quickly get started learning what the York Rite, the Scottish Rite or any other Appendant Body of Freemasonry has to offer. Unfortunately, not all Brothers have the privilege of discovering the many levels of education within the Three Degrees of Craft Masonry and that by rushing through them, they are leaving on the table an inexhaustible amount of information that could strengthen their foundation. Here are 3 Simple Tips you could implement today in your Lodge, to make sure that Brothers gain a better appreciation for the wealth of information and experience that is at their service, if they take the time to dig deeper. Tip #1: Meeting Regularly In the united states, it is common that there is a stated meeting every other week. For ease of explanation, I will use my Lodge as an example. My Lodge has stated communications (regular meetings) the first and third Tuesday of every month. This gives us the chance to schedule Masonic Education Nights on the Second and Fourth Tuesdays of the Month, in addition to our regularly-scheduled stated communications. What are the benefits of doing this? The first benefit is consistency. For the Brothers who are married or have variable schedules at work, your spouse or boss will know that on Tuesday Nights, you have a commitment. It is clearly easier to answer, Is today tuesday? than to answer, is today the third Tuesday of the month? The second benefit of implementing the consistency of weekly meetings, is that there is always something to work towards. In some of the Lodges that I have seen implementing this technique, on the Masonic Education Night, they help brothers with their Memory Work. If there is an upcoming Degree, the Brothers can practice and help one another to improve upon their roles. Finally, the benefit of Fellowship and Brotherly Love. In today’s busy world, we often lose track of the importance of having regular diversions or interactions with our friends and Brothers. Having this weekly meeting, gives you an opportunity to know your Brothers better and solidify your relationships. Tip #2: Distinction between Instructor and Mentor Let’s face it, there is a lot to learn through the study of the Three Degrees in Freemasonry. The amount of memory work can be a little intimidating. However, by ensuring that there is a separation of roles between the Instructor and the Mentor, the newly initiated Brother has two experienced Brothers to help him in this task. First, let’s define the roles of the Instructor and the Mentor. The Instructor The instructor is that Brother who will assist the the newly-initiated Brother in learning his Memory work. He is the one to share techniques on how to better go through the material and memorize it. He will provide the technical feedback what is the best method to learn the lessons of the Craft and how to recall them when it is time to prove proficiency before the Craft. The instructor will also be the person to meet in the lodge room with the Brother, shortly after his initiation, to refresh his memory of everything that went through and help him remember the sequence of events which took place. I have seen this step being ignored too often, to the detriment of the instruction process. The importance of this exercise is that our brains are able to recall information more easily when provided with context. Basically, our brain will create connections between the information being received and the fe... | |||
| 12 Sep 2013 | Is Reading a Waste of Time? | 5 reasons you should read daily | 00:31:45 | |
5 Reasons why reading is not a waste of time Have you ever thought about reading a book and instead chosen to work on something else? or Have you ever felt the desire to just lay back on your favorite couch with a book on your hands, but changed your mind after thinking that it would be a waste of time? Think again! On this episode I want to share with you, 5 reasons Why reading daily is not a waste of time. Reason #1 Reading Reduces Stress. We are used to a fast paced lifestyle with many different things trying to get our attention. It is a healthy practice to take a few minutes or hours in a day to relax and read. Doing this can quiet all the noise that we have in our heads and helps us focus better and reduce our level of stress. Why is it so important that we reduce our level of stress? Because although stress is a mental response to stimulus, it can have a detrimental physiological effect. According to the Mayo Clinic, some of the effects of stress in our body include: Anxiety Sleeping disorders irritability anger social withdrawal Each one of these physical effects could add other troubles to our already-complicated life. Reason #2 Reading Improves Memory. Especially when you read right before bed. According to a study conducted by the University of Notre Dame and headed by Psychologist Jessica Payne on March of 2012. Recollection and accuracy were improved when the subjects of the study read or studied right before going to bed in contrast to their counterparts who read at the beginning of their day. This means that there is a marked benefit derived from spending a little time with a book, just before going to sleep. Another way in which memory is improved is by acting as stimulating brain activity. Similarly to playing board games or doing crossword puzzles, reading may reduce memory loss due to aging, according to a paper published in the New England Journal of Medicine from 2003. Reason #3 Increase your Knowledge. By reading every day, you also increase your knowledge and consequently become a more engaged conversationalist. Imagin the great benefits that can arise out of spending some time reading and learning new things. Things, which in turn become links which solidify your relationships and make you a more effective contributor to the education of future generations and of Masons who are initiated after you. You become a source of knowledge for the Craft. Reason #4 Become more creative. From an artist perspective, I tend to be inspired the most, when I am exposed to new ideas and the creativity of others. Regardless of what your artistic inclination might be, you can derive inspiration when you read about other people and their resourcefulness. If you are a writer, then you need to consume material before you can produce material. Therefore, it is in your best interest as a creative individual to immerse yourself in books as sources of inspiration. Being careful not to simply imitate, but to explore different variations of your craft and start creating. Becoming aware of the creative expressions of others, might inspire you to create your next work of art; tangible or otherwise. Reason #5 Become a role model. Not just to the newer generation of Masons who join our Fraternity, but also to the children in our lives. Children are very impressionable in their first few years of life and if we demonstrate a good example, they are likely to follow it. Imagine a child who grows up in a household where reading for an hour every night is a common practice. They are more likely to see this behavior as natural and by consequence more likely to emulate it. I remember my Mother reading her Bible every night, just before going to sleep. It served as an inspiration to me. I wish that I was as disciplined and dedicated to reading the Holy Scriptures daily, but today I look up to her example and look forward to living a similar life. In conclusion, | |||
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