Quoted:
Simple, straightforward question. No hidden agenda.
What are the benefits to FM. Not monetary if there is any but "other" benefits.
I try to take promises/obligations fairly seriously and would not want to put myself in a position to break any.
What kind of obligations would I be agreeing to?
Thanks
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OK, it may sound clich, but Freemasonry is about making good men better men. Yep, that's ambiguous, so just what is it?
- It's a fraternity. Yep, it's men only in most cases. Historically, many barriers are broken down when it's just men discussing and interacting with other men.
- It's a social club. We may have meals together, we may drink together, we may pray together, we may even do many things outside the lodge together.
- It's an esoteric study group. Ok, not many get into this, but whatever your interest, there's generally SOMEONE who shares it.
- It's a group of friends who will always have your back. My Masonic Brothers can call any time of the day or night, and I will be there to help them...and vice versa.
- It's like-minded men, each committing himself to something larger than himself to better himself and others.
- If you travel to another city, state, or country and meet another Mason, you can be assured that you will have an instant friend.
Do ALL Freemasons live up to ALL of those? Hell, no! Every organization has its bad apples. But you will find so many men who possess and strive for high integrity.
What will you have to agree to? Not a whole lot, but what you agree to is important.
- You have to believe in God (a "higher being") Sorry, no Atheists are allowed.
- You have to be a man of your word.
- You have to agree to the tenants of Freemasonry.
OK, now here's the important part: If you believe ANY of these because you are a Mason, DO NOT JOIN:
- You think you will make more money.
- You think you can make more and better business deals.
- You think you can you will be get a pass if you break the law.
- You think you will gain some special or magical powers.
- You think you will learn all the secrets of Area 51. (Hint, Area 51 is a ruse. Area 52 is where all the fun stuff happens! But I've said too much. )
Freemasonry does not really "give you benefits" other than what you can personally do and improve yourself internally. What you get out of it is a reflection of what you put into it.
Probably the best place to start is to contact a lodge local to you and talk to the members. And don't be afraid to ask questions! Most of us love to talk about Freemasonry! And if you need help finding a local lodge, google "grand lodge" and your state name, and contact the Grand Lodge site for your state. They will point you in the right direction.
Hope this helps!