Given how pervasive AI is becoming, I want to show you some
of the simple things it can do for you to be an aid in your life. I asked it a couple of questions that are
masonic in nature. However, as you will
see, you can apply its usefulness to about anything you can think of.
CHATGPT Questions and Answers
I am a 70 year old man that has
grown daughters. I am member of masonic lodge. I want to continue to grow
personally according to masonic principles. What activities should I be doing
or what reading material should I do?
ChatGPT said:
That's a noble and inspiring pursuit. At 70, your commitment
to continued personal growth—especially within the framework of Masonic
principles—can be both enriching for yourself and impactful for those around
you. Freemasonry encourages the development of moral character, lifelong
learning, and service to others, and there are many ways to deepen that
journey.
? Activities Aligned with Masonic Principles
Here are some meaningful and practical activities you can
pursue:
1. Mentorship
in the Lodge
•
Why: Sharing
your experience helps build the next generation of Masons.
•
How: Offer to
mentor newer members or help with degree work. Encourage deeper discussions
about Masonic philosophy.
2. Daily
Contemplation or Meditation
•
Why:
Freemasonry emphasizes reflection, moral awareness, and balance.
•
How: Spend
15–30 minutes each day in silent reflection or structured meditation, perhaps
focusing on Masonic virtues like Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence, and Justice.
3. Philanthropy
and Service
•
Why: Charity
is a central tenet of Masonry.
•
How: Volunteer
with Masonic charities or local organizations. You can also initiate small
personal projects like helping youth, veterans, or your community.
4. Traveling
Masonically
•
Why: Visiting
other lodges expands your perspective and Masonic network.
•
How: Attend
meetings or events at nearby (or even international) lodges. Participate in
Masonic conferences or research lodges.
5. Family
Engagement
•
Why: Masonic
values extend to family life.
•
How: Share
Masonic ideals (like integrity, kindness, tolerance) through example. Have
philosophical discussions with your daughters, or involve them in family or
community charitable efforts.
? Recommended Reading
Core Masonic Works
•
Morals
and Dogma by Albert Pike
(Dense but profound. Read selectively and reflectively.)
•
The
Meaning of Masonry by W.L. Wilmshurst
(Spiritual and introspective—a must-read for deep thinkers.)
•
A
System of Moral Philosophy by Francis Hutcheson
(Helps illuminate Enlightenment thinking that influenced Masonry.)
Modern Interpretations and Guidance
•
The
Craft: How the Freemasons Made the Modern World by John Dickie
(Historical, readable, and engaging.)
•
Freemasonry
for Beginners by Michael R. Poll
(Great refresher and starter if you want to explain Masonry to others.)
Philosophical and Spiritual Works (Masonically Aligned)
•
Meditations
by Marcus Aurelius
(Stoic wisdom—very aligned with Masonic virtues.)
•
The
Seven Storey Mountain by Thomas Merton
(For spiritual growth and personal reflection.)
•
Ethics
by Baruch Spinoza
(A challenging but rewarding read; promotes rational understanding of virtue
and self-improvement.)
?ﾸﾏ Create a Personal Masonic
Growth Plan
You might consider structuring your growth with a simple personal
plan:
|
Category |
Activity/Goal |
Frequency |
|
Intellectual |
Read 1 Masonic or philosophical book |
Every 2–3 months |
|
Spiritual |
Meditate or reflect on virtues |
Daily |
|
Masonic Practice |
Attend lodge, mentor a Brother |
Weekly or biweekly |
|
Service |
Volunteer or contribute to a cause |
Monthly or ongoing |
|
Legacy/Family |
Share stories, values, and lessons |
As opportunities arise |
If you'd like, I can help you design a personalized yearly
reading list or reflection calendar based on your specific interests
(philosophy, mysticism, history, etc.).
Would you like that?
In the second degree of
masonry, they go over the five different pillars like doric, ionic, composite.
What are the implications of those and how can I apply them to my life in any
way?
ChatGPT said:
Great question. In the Second Degree of Freemasonry (the
Fellowcraft Degree), the five classical architectural orders—Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, Tuscan, and Composite—are
used as symbolic tools. While they originate from classical architecture, in
Masonry they carry deeper philosophical and moral meanings. Let’s explore each
and how they might apply to your personal development:
? 1. Doric –
Strength
•
Architectural trait:
Simple, solid, and strong.
•
Masonic implication:
Symbolizes strength, stability, and moral firmness.
•
Life application:
Cultivate inner strength and resilience. Stand firm in your principles, even
when it's difficult. Be someone others can rely on during trials.
?ﾸﾏ 2. Ionic – Wisdom
•
Architectural trait:
More elegant and balanced than Doric, with scroll-like volutes.
•
Masonic implication:
Represents wisdom and learning.
•
Life application:
Seek knowledge and understanding. Temper your strength (Doric) with
thoughtfulness. Make informed decisions and strive for intellectual growth.
? 3. Corinthian
– Beauty
•
Architectural trait:
The most ornate, with acanthus leaves and delicate details.
•
Masonic implication:
Beauty in life, creation, and action.
•
Life application:
Bring beauty into your world—through creativity, kindness, and how you present
yourself. Appreciate aesthetics, harmony, and the finer expressions of
humanity.
? 4. Tuscan –
Simplicity
•
Architectural trait:
Plainer than Doric, basic and strong.
•
Masonic implication:
Practicality and humility.
•
Life application:
Embrace humility. Keep things simple when needed. Avoid unnecessary complexity
or pride. This teaches restraint and groundedness.
⚖️ 5. Composite
– Integration
•
Architectural trait:
A blend of Ionic and Corinthian.
•
Masonic implication:
The harmonious integration of the best from other styles—symbolizing balance
and maturity.
•
Life application:
Combine strength, wisdom, and beauty in your actions. Live a well-rounded life.
Understand that true mastery often comes from synthesis and adaptability.
? Bigger Picture: The Symbolism of the Pillars in Masonry
In Masonry, these pillars aren’t just about
architecture—they’re a blueprint for building your
inner temple. The Second Degree is about moving from mere physical labor
to intellectual and moral labor: refining your character, understanding your
purpose, and contributing to the world with thought and elegance.
? How You Can Use This Today:
1.
Pick one pillar
each week or month to focus on. Ask: "Am I applying
strength/wisdom/beauty/humility/balance in this part of my life?"
2.
Reflect on how
your "inner temple" is being built. What needs reinforcement? What
needs more artistry?
3.
Embody the ideals
when facing challenges. Use the right pillar depending on the situation: Doric
for hardship, Ionic for problem-solving, etc.
Would you like a simple daily ritual or reflection to help
internalize these over time?
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