FROM THE EAST

(Continued from December)

 The Skirrit

The Skirret is an implement which acts on a centre pin, whence a live is drawn to mark our ground for the foundation of the intended structure for the operative Mason.  For the speculative Mason it points out that straight and undeviating line of conduct laid down for our pursuit in the Volume of Sacred Law.

The Skirret is a tool to b e used in the preparations for laying a foundation.  It is similar to a spool of thread with a handle.  The loose end of the thread has a loop or ring which will catch the centre pin.  The Skirret’s thread is allowed to unwind and kept taut.  Once the desired length is reached, a piece of chalk or other marking implement may be used to mark the foundation, the Skirret’s thread keeping the chalk in a straight line all the while.  It serves a similar purpose to a ruler used when drawing a straight line on a piece of paper.  With the thread would up, it takes up little space, and could even be carried in the pocket of an apron.  When the Skirret’s thread is affixed to a centre pin and allowed to unwind, it becomes longer than any practicable ruler or straightedge could be, and just as sure.  When we consider these qualities in relation to the Volume of Sacred Law, the Skirret becomes the tool which helps us to understand how the Volume of Sacred Law applies to our own lives.  Most  of the Volumes of the Sacred Law – be it the Bible, TaNaCh, Koran, etc., were written millennia ago, in cultures and contexts very different from our contemporary world.  And yet we are instructed that the Volume of the Sacred Law is “the rule and guide of our faith”.  How do we apply the stories and laws of ancient books to our daily live?  Through the use of reason and faith. Which is represented by the Skirrit.

Next time - The Pencil

How about sending me he name and artist of your favorite song or songs and tell us why it is your favorite or if it has a special meaning in your life.  We are going to compile a list and will post it to the web site.

 Please join us in lodge - we will be having another 2nd degree at the next stated.

VW Michael Davis

Master

 FROM THE WEST

SHOUT  FROM THE SOUTH

It was again a pleasure to enjoy our recent stated meeting as we conferred second degrees on  two of our entered apprentices.  It is a delight to see new masons progressing through the degrees as it has been too long a hiatus for enjoying these rituals in our lodge.  I am looking forward to doing two third degrees in the near future.

Recent traveling has provided an opportunity to attend the “Scottish Bards”  250^th  birthday.  This year my wife and I attended Robert Burns night that was held at Centennial lodge in the town of Snohomish.   Many a toast was held in the  Scottish Bards honor allowing a sampling of several of Scotland’s  finest liquid exports….The program featured  many a  traditional spread, including, neaps, roast beef and Haggis with a secret Scottish sauce.   It was a great repast. 

Speaking of traveling,  the wife and I will be on a train/cruise until mid march and may not make it back in time to attend the next stated meeting.  We will take Amtrak down to L.A. and board the cruise ship for tours of  Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta, culminated by a return trip via  Amtrak.   I should have a couple of good stories to tell by then.

WB Greg Mathers

 FROM THE DESK OF THE SECRET