From Sr Meghan MacFarlane, Worthy Matron
My father was a Freemason. He passed away in 2013, and I joined Star shortly after… to continue the connection and to feel closer to him. I would hope that he’d get a kick out of seeing me up here in the East. My reasons for joining WERE very simple at that time. But my reason for REMAINING an active member of Eastern Star is entirely different. I know that when I walk into this hall, I will be met with smiles and open arms, hugs and happy embraces, genuine well wishing and sometimes some ribbing and joking.
The occasional skip in a marching step, or the whispered joke with a sideliner, or watching the pride on a member announcing a birth or anniversary – these are the moments that really matter at Star. And these beautiful moments only happen because of Eastern Star. I have met some of the most caring, considerate, charitable and kind people in this room. I have laughed SO SO hard with some of you, and I have cried with others. As it should be with Sisters and Brothers.
We all have our strengths, some of us do well at memorizing our lines, some of us instinctively understand the intricacies of the bylaws and instructions, while some of us thrive at the organizing of fundraisers or events. We wouldn’t be able to do it all by ourselves, and we certainly couldn’t do it as a group if we didn’t have THIS structure of the business meetings.
Our business meetings might sometimes feel tedious, but that consistency in routine has provided this chapter with 100 years of direct and clear leadership, so we need to balance that out. We NEED to understand that, for if we begrudge the meetings – we sabotage our ability to succeed as a group. For all the moments that we are required to sit quietly and listen as our minutes are read, or a motion is debated, or the committee reports…. Those patient moments earn us the ability to carry on successfully as a 100 year old Chapter in Prince Albert.
While we primarily raise money for Guide Dogs in Saskatchewan, each year the Worthy Matron and Worthy Patron have the ability to select a charity to support for their year. This year the charity we have chosen has earned a special place in my heart, and I hope soon in yours. This year Gateway Regional Victim Services will be the recipient of our fundraising efforts for the year.
My theme for the year is The Year of the Heroines. The five star points in the middle of the room represent five historical women. Each of these women went through a trial that put them to the test, and they each represent a character trait that we are encouraged to emulate. Throughout their stories, they have shown loyalty, fidelity, constancy, trust and love.
This year is shaping up to be a lovely series of gatherings – with speakers, meals, and events planned ahead – I hope to provide all the Sisters and Brothers here with as memorable a year as possible.
Thank you for putting your trust in me to hold this gavel.
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