Remember and Celebrate the 2%

Sadly, we seem to live in an era in which patriot fervor and loyalty have faded away. We focus on candidates and parties, often at the expense of the Principles upon which our Nation was founded. In the aftermath of Vietnam, we decided that service to the Nation should be Voluntary and the security of our Nation now rests with an all-Volunteer force. But declining recruitments are leaving us vulnerable and those forces hollow. Many of our young people are no longer motivated or inspired to serve our Nation, - - - in any capacity. Similarly, the “special days” and memorials to historic events in our history have become merely 3-day weekends, days to sleep in. We no longer celebrate their significance or discuss the meanings of those events or the content of those documents. 

I propose a partial solution, a homework assignment for every true Mason. The requirements are simple and can be accomplished without disturbing your schedule, missing your favorite TV show or sports competition. 

First, go walk a battlefield where a Soldier died or visit a cemetery where a Soldier is interred. Stand in a place where life departed a mortal coil or where the earthly remains of departed Soldiers now rest. There are battlefields around the State or National Cemeteries, however, you can visit almost any local cemetery and find the grave of a veteran. Pause there and commune with the spirit of that departed warrior, and in your own way, thank the Great and Holy God in whom you put your trust for their sacrifice and service. 

The second, you can accomplish at almost any Lodge or church meeting, or maybe by walking across the street or next door. Find a veteran, someone living who has served. Go to them and look them in the eye. Thank them for giving a part of themselves to this Nation to preserve our freedoms and way of life. A handshake, pat on the back, or a hug may be in order. You may want to take them to lunch or for a walk around the block. 

Third find a Soldier, Seaman, Airman, or Marine who is currently serving. If you do not know one, ask a neighbor of friend. Thank them. If you can not do it in person, obtain their address and send them a card with a personal note. You may even want to add them to your Christmas list. Let a hero now serving know how much you appreciate their sacrifice and service. 

Fourth and last, obtain a copy of our Constitution. You may already have a copy, you can download it, or copies are available in libraries and most book stores. Read it. Keep it in a special place, near your Bible or on the nightstand near your bed. Study it; think about it; understand what it says and the God given rights and freedoms that it protects. No other Nation on earth is so blessed. If young men and women freely pledge their lives to support the principles of that document and to defend it from all enemies abroad and here at home, it is your duty as a citizen to be knowledgeable of it and understand, first hand, what it says. 

I hope and pray, that you will perform these duties. They are a simple way to accomplish, what we as Masons pledge and to celebrate the service of our veterans and Soldiers. It is a way to honor that precious 2% who, stand in harm’s way between us and the enemies of our way of life.

By Paul N. Blankenbeckler, 33 degree, IGH - Memphis Valley