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I love bicycling. There’s something truly special about those long rides—three or four hours of just me, the open road, and the steady rhythm of pedaling through forests and farmlands. It’s the perfect way to clear my mind and let creativity flow freely.
It was in the midst of an adrenaline rush—somewhere between pushing up a tough hill and feeling the freedom of the ride—that inspiration struck. I started thinking about how bicycling shares some surprising similarities with being a Freemason. The balance, the perseverance, the sense of brotherhood—all of it came together in a way that made perfect sense.
And so, I put together a lighthearted comparison between the two. Hope you enjoy the ride!
1. Balance
is key: Just as a bicycle needs balance to move forward,
Freemasons value harmony in their brotherhood.
2. Continuous
motion: To stay upright on a bike, you need to keep pedaling;
similarly, Freemasonry thrives on active participation and growth.
3. A
shared journey: Cycling often involves group rides, and
Freemasons cherish companionship and shared experiences.
4. Guidance
matters: A map or mentor helps navigate new terrain; Freemasons
offer guidance to their members on life's journey.
5. Built
on principles: Bikes rely on strong frameworks, and Freemasonry
is built on principles like Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.
6. Freedom
and exploration: Cycling offers liberation, as does the quest
for self-improvement and knowledge in Freemasonry.
7. Symbols
abound: Cyclists have gears and chains; Freemasons have tools
like compasses and squares—symbols guiding their paths.
8. Requires
dedication: Whether mastering cycling or understanding
Freemasonry, both demand commitment and perseverance.
9. Adapting
to challenges: Cyclists face hills and headwinds; Freemasons
address life's struggles with resilience and support.
10. A sense of community: Bicycling fosters camaraderie among riders, just as Freemasons cultivate fraternity within their Lodges and the Masonic Community.
While bicycling and Freemasonry may seem worlds apart, they share more common ground than one might expect. Each requires dedication, balance, and an openness to growth. Whether on two wheels or in a Masonic Lodge, the pursuit of self-improvement, community, and resilience remains at the heart of the experience.
As I continue my long rides through forests and farmland, I find that the lessons of Freemasonry accompany me, just as the steady rhythm of my cycling guides my thoughts forward. It is, after all, the journey—not just the destination—that shapes us.
