As a new year begins, many of us naturally pause to reflect—on who we are, what we value, and how we might continue to grow in the months ahead. Within Freemasonry, this spirit of reflection is not reserved for a particular season. It is central to the Craft itself and is captured in a phrase […]
Personal Growth
How Maine Values Intersect with Freemason Values
From Abolitionist editor Elijah Lovejoy … to Civil War General Joshua Chamberlain … to revered U.S. Senator Margaret Chase Smith … Maine values have shown themselves throughout history to be virtually synonymous with integrity and a deep-seated commitment to ethical conduct. So how do Maine values specifically intersect with Freemason values? Let’s take a moment […]
What is Healthy Masculinity … and How Can Freemasons Achieve It?
You’ve probably heard it your entire life: “Man up,” people say. Or “Act like a man.” Statements like these reflect a “Guy Code” that society often imposes on men, reflecting unspoken rules you are supposed to follow. But how much do these “rules” reflect healthy masculinity—as opposed to the “toxic” kind? And how can Freemasons […]
Why Truth is So Important to Freemasons
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 […]
Values-Based Listening Skills for Masons
As Masons, we are crystal-clear—and deeply passionate—about our moral values. Go to our Valley of Portland website and you’ll see it plainly laid out: “We believe in teaching and emulating the principles of Brotherly Love, Tolerance, Charity, and Truth.” And though we often don’t think specifically about listening skills in this connection, the fact is […]
Why Maine Men Should Become Masons
When you think of “Maine men,” what do you think of? The stereotype might be a guy with a northern New England accent, wearing a plaid shirt and expertly handling a lobster roll. But it goes way beyond that. Maine men come from a distinctive culture—with a distinctive set of values—that makes them perfectly suited […]
Why Mentoring Young Men Through DeMolay, etc. MATTERS
Today, young men are often described as being “in crisis.” During the past 50 years, at exactly the same time when women have made massive advancements, young men have been falling behind. This is true not because women’s success comes at young men’s expense, but because young men are facing new and very serious challenges. […]
The 3 Great Principles of Freemasonry
Here at the Valley of Portland, we join our masonic brothers around the world in being serious-minded about becoming our best selves and in offering caring, devoted service to others. As we discussed in our recent blog “What is Masculinity? A Valley of Portland Response,” we emphatically believe the world needs more men of honor—more […]
