The word harmony is used in all three degrees in both the opening and closing. More importantly it is used in the opening prayer of all three degrees as well.
Harmony being the strength and support of all institutions, but more especially this of ours......may it be conducted in order and closed in harmony.
As I have mentioned numerous times before, the authors of our ritual were very wise and used words to the utmost of their meaning. It is our challenge to decipher the meaning packed into those words or in this case, one single word.
Harmony
a. An orderly or pleasing combination of elements in a whole: color harmony; the order and harmony of the universe.
b. A relationship in which various components exist together without destroying one another: different kinds of fish living in harmony.
c. A relationship characterized by a lack of conflict or by agreement, as of opinion or interest: family harmony.
When applying this word to our lodges we can easily draw many correlations. First the lodge, any lodge is a combination of elements working together as one common unit. Of course there are differences of opinions, differences of dedication, and many other differences. Somehow when the chips are down we manage to come together, especially when conferring degrees.
The second element of the definition almost brings a chuckle to mind, but we really need to reflect on this part of the definition and think about what we are doing to our lodges, and more importantly to each other.
Somehow for the most part we do exist together without destroying one another.....sadly not in all cases, but in most we do......and we should strive to do this 100% of the time.
The lesson taught by the word harmony is that there should be a lack of conflict or disagreement. Too often we let petty differences interfere with the greater good of the fraternity, thereby restricting our ability to impart brotherly, relief, and truth.
Our opening prayer mentions harmony but also charges us to conduct our business in order and to close the meeting in harmony. I remember having a boss who used to say in our staff meetings, "We can disagree on everything we talk about, but when we leave this meeting we will all agree, and the message delivered to the associates will be one and the same." This was very sage advice whether in a business setting or a fraternal setting such as ours.
We need to remember our purpose is to bring light to our members new and old. Also to impart the knowledge found in our various degrees, rituals, and ceremonies. However, if we do nothing beyond merely listening to the words of the ritual we are missing some very valuable lessons. I know that by being challenged by others as to the meaning of certain words or phrases, and also through my own curiosity, I have learned many valuable and useful lessons.
Harmony being the strength and support of all institutions but more especially this of ours
