Psalm 133:1 - BEHOLD, HOW good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

My brothers, let me widen your horizon. Masonry extends beyond the borders of Illinois, beyond the regions of the Midwest, beyond the shores of America, beyond the western hemisphere and beyond the stratosphere of the Earth. We are products of the Grand Architect of the Universe. Masonry dates back beyond your parents, beyond the Civil War, beyond George Washington, the first President of the United States of America, setting the cornerstone of this country, beyond Wolfgang Mozart, the great musical composer and beyond David's son, King Solomon, one of the wisest men that ever lived. A lodge may have a certain height and a certain width, but Masonry is Limitless.

Our Great Light, in which the Light of the World is our perfect ashler, guides us through our toilsome journey of life. In the author, of this spiritual trestleboard, do we put our trust. A trust in God is of the utmost importance for a Mason. For if a man does not believe in the name of Deity, then that which makes him a Mason is futile.

The bible says in Proverbs 15:33 that, "The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom, and before honor is humility." Brothers, we all will be tested and will be tested by all, including by our own brothers. Nonetheless, humility is expected. We must be mindful that harmony is the strength and support of all societies. And with humility and harmony comes honor. Masonry is more honorable than any other order that can be conferred upon you, even by kings, potentates or any other person.

My best advice to you and you is to continue to strive to be that perfect ashler, which is a state of perfection we hope to arrive by a virtuous education, our own endeavors and the blessings of God. Amen.