If you’re like most American men, you probably remember that very important life lesson you learned from your dad. The lesson about Truth. Your dad likely said something like, “Be truthful, son. Don’t lie. A man’s word should be as good as his bond.” In this way, you learned that Truth is foundational to personal character, to deeply held personal values, to the degree to which you are seen as “an upstanding man,” as trustworthy and reliable. Let’s explore why Freemasons find this topic so critical.
A Core Masonic Value
The value of Truth—of being a truthful, trustworthy man—is so core to Freemasonry that it’s spotlighted right in our Mission Statement. The statement reads, in part, that our mission at The Valley of Portland and, more broadly, is “improve [our] members and enhance the communities in which they live by teaching and emulating the principles of Brotherly Love, Tolerance, Charity, and Truth.”
This reveals that Truth is something more important—and more profound—than just “getting your facts straight” or arming yourself against disinformation (although those things have become increasingly important). It means that embracing Truth—and the quest for it—should be core to your own personal mission as a man and Mason.
Truth and Community
To strive every day to be a good and truthful man is so crucial that it’s one of the first lessons we are taught as Freemasons. In fact, unless you have a reputation for being truthful, you are not normally qualified to become a member of our order. That’s because—while truthfulness is essential in its own right—it’s also a fundamental requirement of good citizenship, both in our local communities and in our “American community” writ large. Without a commitment to truth, it becomes more and more difficult for citizens and their leaders to work together, to progress, to strive to build what Abraham Lincoln described as “a more perfect union.” Personal character and embracing Truth as your “North Star” are absolutely foundational to building trust, enhancing fellowship, nurturing personal relationships, and sustaining the American Dream for ourselves and future generations.
Your Personal “Truth Mission”
Freemasonry’s Motto is “Let There Be Light.” This “light” is another crucial aspect of Truth: the pursuit of knowledge. As Masons, we embrace a never-ending search for information because that mission brings us closer to gaining knowledge and using that knowledge to be more authentic—more truthful—men. And as we better ourselves in that way, we are more and more empowered to better our communities and the world at large.
Want to Learn More About the Valley of Portland?
Additional information about the Valley of Portland can be found on the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction Scottish Rite website and on our membership page. Interested in learning more about local events? Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date and informed about upcoming events.
New brothers interested in joining the Valley of Portland can do so by completing this online application.
