By Martin Faulks
There are many great reasons to wear a pin badge or tie that represents a society or club to which you belong. It's a great conversation starter, it allows you to meet other members of the club and it promotes something you love.
I think, however, there is another reason why Freemasons might be inspired to wear symbols associated with their craft. I believe that it’s valuable as a reminder of the inspiring lessons contained in our ceremonies and encourages us to remember our vows.
On first reflection, this may seem a bit like an unusual suggestion but if you think about it as a race, humans have always used physical objects as reminders of vows or new habits.
Throughout history, people have used physical objects as reminders of important promises or commitments. For example, wedding rings serve as a reminder of the vows made during a marriage ceremony. In some countries, agreements are made by the breaking of an object with both parties keeping one half. Often societies based on giving up drinking or smoking issue a coin or medallion to wear for those getting on the wagon. In truth, any written contract is just a physical reminder of something agreed.
The idea that a physical representation of a moral lesson helps serve as a reminder is part of the wisdom of many ancient traditions, but modern science has also shown this to be an effective measure. Studies show that using a physical object, such as a bracelet or a note, with the goal on it as a reminder can be an effective way to change entrenched habits and makes it far more likely to achieve a goal.
I personally like to wear something related to the ritual, role or the masonic lesson I am working on at the moment. It serves as a reminder to trigger me to muse on it, to remember to embody the lessons, or rehearse the ritual when I have some downtime. It also means that others become allies in reminding me, training partners if you will, when they ask about the pin badge or tie. And the ensuing discussions help to renew interest and give new perspectives.
So, this all being said what reminders do I think you should get from the Shop at Freemasons’ Hall?
The Grand Lodge Tie
I really think the Grand Lodge Tie is worth having and wearing. It’s stylish, durable and subtle enough that many people would not connect it with masonry, whilst being overt enough to encourage brother masons to say hello on the train. The Square and Compasses have been used as inspirational symbols from the 14th century onwards, appearing in many different forms and arrangements and with varying interpretations. For us freemasons, of course, they have some very specific lessons that are worth revisiting on a daily basis.
