Marble Musings, July 2010

Many people have asked me why the wolf was chosen to be my fun symbol. My reasoning was two-fold. The wolf mates for life and I believe Eastern Star membership should be life-long. Secondly, the wolf nearly became extinct. However, with proper attention and projects, the wolf is now flourishing. The numbers of members and chapters in Eastern Star have been decreasing but with proper attention and projects, we could also flourish. 

Why should Eastern Star be for life? It’s the best organization in the world. Let’s reread the previous sentence. The Order of the Eastern Star is an “organization” with members “worldwide”. That covers nearly every word, except the word “best”. Why are we the “best”? This is a loaded question!

I have listened as many stated why they believe the Order of the Eastern Star is the best. It is similar to a close-knit family. Some even say it is better than a biological family. There is a love and bond that is as strong as the toughest glue. Many say the bond between Eastern Star members is unmatched by other organizations. Without a second’s hesitation, we will stop whatever we are doing including a night’s sleep, to help another member in need. A book could be written recounting the many stories of how Eastern Star members and members of other Masonic bodies have helped each other.

Beyond this bond the Order of the Eastern Star strives to help communities, to support the youth, fund research in the fight of debilitating or deadly diseases, and more. It has been said that we work hard and we play hard. This relates to the saying that many hands make light work. Our members come together in numbers working to raise funds to help our communities and mankind. In these endeavors we enjoy each other’s company, the deepening of friendships, the cause of doing good works, and of course, we enjoy the laughter, which is always present.

Now, and I mean RIGHT NOW, we must pay special attention to our Order and plan to promote our well- being. I am happy to report that some chapters who have not had an initiation ceremony for years are now bringing in new members. Most of these chapters have taken the steps to seriously plan and then work their plan to increase membership. Some chapters have developed ideas to make their presence known within their community. These chapters have actively taken steps to reverse the downward trend of their membership rolls. They embodied the spirit of adventure by developing ideas to attract others in wanting to join the best organization in the world. Use the wolf as a symbol of success within your chapter, a chapter that will flourish.

In the spirit of adventure,

Donna Hanley, Worthy Grand Matron