Brethren:
It is hard to come up with the right words to say 'thanks' for the opportunity that you have given me to serve you as National President. When anyone takes on a responsibility such as this one, regardless of whether it's in another Masonic body or social organization, one enters the job with some fears, some ideas and most of all, a respect for what the group is supposed to stand for. As Freemasons, you must think about the precepts of Masonry as well as National Sojourners.
Sometimes the two do not mesh like a well-oiled machine, and one or the other body suffers. I certainly have been guilty of this failure, and where this has happened, I apologize to each of you for it.
But, at the same time, I have come to believe that where I have been and what I have written has contributed to the betterment of National Sojourners. Only you can be my Jury on this Statement.
Most of us have heard the phrase, For the Good of the Order, and often thought about something that you felt needed to be said, but you let it pass.
I ask each of you to spend a few minutes a day and think about what you can do to improve our Organization. Don't take the negative attitude that immediately says something like my vote doesn't count, or no one will care about my thought.
Instead, I propose that you may have the single most important idea that has ever been voiced by a member. Yes, as soon as you speak it, everyone becomes a listener and you have become the inspiration.
How about a new way to attract members, not just to National Sojourners, but to Freemasonry? Or, how to better succeed in our labors. (This ideal certainly can use our attention) Come on, my Brothers, you have come to this meeting expecting something more than sightseeing, I hope. All that I am asking each of you is to contribute your talents and ideas to better this Organization. I ask each of you to take home the phrase "For the Good of the Order" and do something to spread our good works.
I'm going to give you one other task to take on: the support of our young veterans that are returning injured from Iraq and Afghanistan. They are in desperate need of someone to care about them beside their family. How about becoming a 'hand holding' friend and supporter, please. Search out that young disabled veteran and hold out your hand.
Think about this opportunity, my Brothers. Your help will be returned to you tenfold.
Thanks, Phil