Elevating Character – By Ian Love-Jones

I did not seek initiation because of famous Odd Fellows, though there are many. The marketing doesn’t hurt though! It can be exciting to know in the back of your mind, that your name appears in the same registers with titans in history … In our enthusiasm for shared kinship with strong willed leaders, and high achievers, we should also be discerning about whom we celebrate. I caution discernment not because I ever expect humans to be perfect and uncomplicated – I expect quite the opposite, in fact. I am only observing that notoriety is not always the mark of a life spent promoting or demonstrating good character, or even a life that demonstrated redemptive change.

Light A Candle – by Ian Love-Jones

Please know that lighting a candle rather than simply cursing the darkness isn’t about ignoring challenges, looking down on healthy venting, or creating some self initiated cure-all. Lighting a candle rather than cursing the darkness is a reminder of how important it is to first find some hope, when throwing up our hands would feel far easier. It is an encouragement to do just what we can when the world seems bleak, and we are tired. Lighting a candle and not just cursing the darkness is a lesson: that even small lights when openly shone, can travel far, signal needs or solutions, summon non-judgmental helpers, and inspire others to light their own candles so that we can press back the gloom as a collective.

Becoming An Elder – By Ian Love-Jones

So where can the elders of today and tomorrow discover the true shape of their mantle? For me as an Odd Fellow, involvement in the Encampment is about embracing that particular journey and transition. The titles of Patriarch, Matriarch, or elder are not just about being the oldest or most experienced within a family. More broadly, those titles describe leaders, nurturers, and protectors. Those monikers describe people who provide reassurance, and a positive example. As elders within the Encampment we should inspire, teach, and develop others – all while continuing to learn.