I used to post a sign over my desk that read: "When you're up to your waist in alligators, it's hard to remember that your original intention was to drain the swamp." During the period that we now are destined to endure, it is important that we concentrate on our original Masonic intentions and count our many blessings. To count our blessings may seem difficult at first, but you might start with the fact that you can see and understand the words in this communication. As you continue in this practice, you will find that your blessings far outnumber the trials in your life. This fact should give us all a renewed perspective on our individual situations, and hopefully the means to overcome these obstacles. It is said that the Chinese character for a difficult situation (crises?) is actually a combination of 2 characters: Danger and Opportunity.

By shedding Masonic Light on our difficulties by invoking the aid and assistance of the G.A.O.T.U., it becomes possible to see the opportunity in a particular situation and take advantage of it to continue to grow on the spiritual level. I firmly believe that the difference between an obstacle and a stepping stone is in how it is used for your personal and spiritual growth.

I wish all the Brethren a most joyous holiday season. May it be filled with good health, a long life, and many accomplishments. May we enjoy continued success in our Lodge and may its Light reflect on our members and their families to help and guide them during these troubled times. May we all become a beacon that sheds Light on the world and teaches men how to get along, not just during the holidays, but throughout the year, as well. May God watch over you and protect you and may you be blessed as much as you are able to receive it.

Cordially and fraternally,
W.'.M.'.Jonathan Patrick
drjonapatrick@comcast.net

GLAD TIDINGS:

Belated congratulations to W.'.Jerome Garf on having received his 60-year recognition certificate.

Congrats to our Tyler, W.'.Donald Pisany, DSA, who was honored by Temple Post No. 19 with the Albert I. Cohan Memorial Award for his nearly three (3) decades of volunteer work every Sunday with veterans in the VA Hospital on 23rd Street, Manhattan.

Best of luck to R.'.W.'.Nathan Savlowitz and the Annual 8Th Manhattan District Florida Luncheon next Sunday.

SAD TIDINGS:

Our collective condolences to Brother John Andrades on the passing of his beloved sister, Matilda.

Sadly, just before the Thanksgiving holiday, R.'.W.'.Martin Dashevsky's 6-month great grandson
was rushed to Cornell Pediatric Burn Center with 2ND Degree burns over 30% of the infants body, from spilled hot tea.
Happily we report the baby has been returned home to the warm embrace of his anxious parents and grandparents, and is on the mend.