Hon. James McCallion, 32° KCCH
Venerable Master, Director of Education
In last month’s issue (December 2023’s Newsletter), we introduced indigenous esoteric symbolism such as the Zia, Giizisoo-Mazina’igan (Myth of the turtle’s back), and elements of Shamanic meditation called “Tiyoweh” or stillness. I invited you to explore the Journey of the 13 Moons; a call to action employing both oral legends, and a monthly ancient discipline towards clarity and wholeness. A primer was offered into discovering the truths within yourselves. We reflected upon the 1st Moon Cycle: “Talks with Relations,” which focused on developing a meaningful awareness with those of whom we interact and respecting the sacred space (of ourselves and others). You were prompted with the inquiry “What is Truth?” and asked “how will you endeavor to learn it?” It was suggested that by finding solitude in Nature and facilitating “Tiyoweh (the stillness)”, that you might begin this inward journey. As the old Taoist axiom espouses, “when you quiet the mind, it has much to tell you.”
For the month of February 2024, we will continue our journey of seeking Truth by calling forth the guidance of the Wisdom Keeper, the Clan Mother of the 2nd Moon Cycle. She teaches us how to develop the Self through Honoring the Truth in all things.
Not Dissimilar to Thoth, scribe of the Egyptian Gods, Hermes Trismegistus, or even a Secretary of a Masonic lodge, she was keeper of the stone libraries, protector of sacred traditions, and the guardian of remembering. To honor the truth of all that has been, it is necessary for us to rely on more than just tradition, culture, and story. Wisdom Keeper honors the truth as it is seen from each person’s sacred point of view, knowing that there is a truth in every lifeform’s journey.
As Masons, we may find commonality in this philosophy. Without question, we honor (or should we so aspire) each other’s personal, spiritual, and Masonic journey, accepting that although we may differ, we are bound by something stronger; deeper. That we are compelled to lift each other up and take heed in each other’s life lessons for they may become our own (or conversely, that we may offer solace and thus reduce their unnecessary suffering – our ultimate purpose in life).
To that extent, if we view this through the lens of Shamanism, one will see that knowledge from this expansive view of the “Planetary Family” is the key to self-development and is the medicine that teaches us of being totally present in any given moment (the key to self-mastery). That all parts compose the whole, each part being equal and every part contributing towards the enrichment of all. There is a great honor in self-restraint in that sometimes we learn and teach simultaneously when we are quiet and listen to others. We learn by being receptive, we also teach when we allow others to share their wisdom.
In traditional Pipe Ceremony (“Pipe Circle”), blessed tobacco is shared among a group of those communing to form a pact, pray, or open negotiations with intent of truthful, respectful, and meaningful “good talks.” Participants sit in a circle with the pipe carrier acting as a sort of Senior Deacon, or host of the ceremony, handling the sacred tobacco, leading prayers to the 4 directions, the spirit world, Mother Earth, and all living creatures within the space between. Upon conclusion of the ceremony, the pipe carrier usually shares their introspection such as the inspirations, curiosities, and gratitude they have found along their life journey. It is common for the others in the group to share their reflections as well.
I ask that in the Moon of February, you contemplate how can you “Honor Truth?” And how will you endeavor to do so (hint: wake up at 4am and meditate on that tranquil earthly hum before Humanity wakes up and disrupts that peace)? Listen for it… can you hear it?
“The Breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you. Don’t go back to sleep.” – Rumi
On a separate note, Apache Lodge #69, Gila Valley #9, and White Mountain #3 invites all Master Masons to the 6th annual “Lost Dutchman Outdoor 3rd Degree” on Saturday, March 2nd at the Lost Goldmine East Trailhead on Forest Road 77 in Gold Canyon, AZ. Cost is $35 and 2024 dues cards required for any brothers who want to travel and see an outdoor degree. Please contact me for more information.
