The Common Gavel - Lets break off those rough edges

 

THE COMMON GAVEL

The common gavel is used to break off the corners of rough stones for building.

We use this analogy that we divest ourselves of all vices and superfluities of life, to fit our minds for that spiritual building in heaven.

The Masonic gavel is a symbol of getting rid of excesses and vices of life, the same way a stone is being made smooth by stonemasons. It helps us shape our lives into spiritual beings that live a life that pleases God, the Creator and the Master Architect of the Universe.

It is not adapted to giving polish or ornamentation to the stone, and hence it should symbolize only that training of the new Freemason which is designed to give some limited skill and moral training, 

 

We learn that skill without industry(actual work) is to no avail.  It is said that labor is the lot of man; for the heart may conceive, and the head devise in vain, if the hand be not prompt to execute the design. 

I have a CD set called ”Execution, The discipline of getting things done” by Bossidy and Charan.  It shows that some of the biggest failures and because of not executing a plan.

Notice that we use a gavel, not sandpaper, not file, not a little hammer.  Freeing ourselves of the roughness may hurt.

“The gavel represents the force of conscience. It is our will power, through which we govern our actions and free ourselves from debasing influences. It requires repeated exercise of our will power to subdue our passions.

Will power is common to all and it is fittingly symbolized by the "common" gavel, but just as the gavel is of no worth unless it is used, so is our will power”.

 

 

Albert Pike felt the mallet and chisel (and gavel) symbolized development of the intellect of each individual and of society.

He wrote, "...a man's intellect is all his own, held direct from God, an inalienable fief.

It is the most potent of weapons....Society hangs spiritually together....The free country, in which intellect and genius govern, will endure....To elevate the people by teaching loving-kindness and wisdom, with power to him who teaches best; and so to develop the free State from the rough ashlar;---this is the great labor in which Masonry desires to lend a helping hand."

OK, so we know we need to remove rough edges, but what are those?

I asked ChatGPT to give me a list of vices and imperfections that are common to address.

 

1. **Procrastination**: Delaying tasks and responsibilities.
2. **Laziness**: Lack of motivation or effort in activities.
3. **Greed**: Excessive desire for material wealth or possessions.
4. **Anger**: Difficulty managing and controlling temper.
5. **Jealousy**: Envy of others' successes or possessions.
6. **Pride**: Excessive self-importance and lack of humility.
7. **Lust**: Overindulgence in or obsession with sexual desires.
8. **Gluttony**: Overconsumption, especially with food and drink.
9. **Envy**: Resentment towards others for their advantages.
10. **Dishonesty**: Lying, deceit, or lack of integrity.
11. **Impatience**: Inability to tolerate delays or problems without becoming agitated.
12. **Arrogance**: Overbearing pride or a sense of superiority.
13. **Stubbornness**: Refusal to change opinions or behaviors.
14. **Fearfulness**: Letting fear prevent action or decision-making.
15. **Intolerance**: Unwillingness to accept others' differences or opinions.

Addressing these imperfections often involves self-reflection, consistent effort, and sometimes seeking guidance or support from others.

 

 

General Self-Improvement and Personal Growth

1.   "The Power of Habit" by Charles Duhigg: Helps understand the science behind habits and how to change them effectively.

2.   "Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones" by James Clear: Provides practical strategies for habit formation and breaking bad habits.

3.   "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by Carol S. Dweck: Explores the concept of mindset and how adopting a growth mindset can aid in personal development.

4.   "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change" by Stephen R. Covey: Offers a holistic approach to personal and interpersonal effectiveness.

Specific Vices and Challenges

5.   "The Procrastination Equation: How to Stop Putting Things Off and Start Getting Stuff Done" by Piers Steel: Focuses on understanding procrastination and strategies to overcome it.

6.   "Anger Management Workbook for Men: Take Control of Your Anger and Master Your Emotions" by Aaron Karmin LCSW, MA: Provides practical exercises and strategies for managing anger.

7.   "Overcoming Jealousy and Possessiveness" by Paul A. Hauck: Offers insights and techniques to overcome feelings of jealousy and possessiveness.

8.   "The Willpower Instinct: How Self-Control Works, Why It Matters, and What You Can Do to Get More of It" by Kelly McGonigal: Explores the science of willpower and provides strategies for strengthening self-control.

9.   "Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One" by Dr. Joe Dispenza: Focuses on breaking negative patterns and creating positive change through neuroscience and meditation.

Emotional and Spiritual Growth

10.                "The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself" by Michael A. Singer: Offers insights on mindfulness and achieving inner peace.

11.                "Emotional Intelligence 2.0" by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves: Helps develop emotional intelligence skills, which can aid in managing emotions and interpersonal relationships.

Practical Tools and Workbooks

12.                Workbooks on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Many workbooks are available that focus on specific challenges like anxiety, depression, anger management, etc., using CBT techniques.

13.                Self-help Apps and Online Courses: Platforms like Headspace for meditation, Calm for relaxation, and courses on platforms like Coursera or Udemy can provide structured learning and exercises.

Support Groups and Therapy

14.                Support Groups: Local or online support groups can provide peer support and accountability in overcoming specific vices or challenges.

15.                Therapy: Professional therapy or counseling can provide personalized guidance and strategies tailored to individual needs.

Choosing the right resources depends on personal preferences and the specific vice or challenge being addressed. Combining several approaches—such as reading books, using practical workbooks, and seeking support from groups or therapy—can often yield the most effective results in personal growth and overcoming vices.