March 29, 2007. I met my mentor at the lodge beforehand. As the others arrived, they greeted me and were very easy to talk to. Everyone was mostly speaking amongst each other about the lodge this and the lodge that. We shared a meal and I realized there were some visitors. A man from another state, but I don't remember his name, or state. I was not as nervous as the first degree, but still a little nervous. Nothing anti-Christian or demonic happened in the first, and I was sure nothing would here either... at least it better not!

As in the first degree, they all went upstairs and I remained below. It seemed to take longer than expected, but at last I was summoned. Again I entered the small room ajoining the lodge and was prepared. As I previously reported, I will not explain the preparation. But I will give you the assurance that nothing happens here which will embarass, injure or degrade you. Everything has meanings during these degrees. I mean everything. I was led to the door and...

Now I could easily explain what happened next but thats no fun. If you plan to petition for the degrees, let them come as suprises. Don't search them out in books or webpages. It would really take the meaning and fun out of it. I have read supposed descriptions of the degrees I underwent using popular research resources. To my surprise, I found the published degrees whether on internet or in books, to be remarkably different than what actually occurred. There are similarities, but some very distinct differences.

This degree was longer than the first, and the lecture much more detailed. I found particular joy in this degree. I was now a Fellow Craft Mason and one step closer to becoming a Master Mason.

***

I got another small book of coded text, I was to memorize. My mentor and I worked at it again. This seemed easier to remember, as it was close to the first book. But it was still a chore. There was a twist this time. My mentor asked me to recite the questions and answers, something rarely done. I did not feel ready to do so, but I said I would give it a try. When I went to show my proficiency with the extra memorization, I was suprised to find the Most Worshipful Grand Master in attendance. (By the way, "Worshipful, Most Worshipful etc. were terms that bothered me at first. It is clearly evident that it is an old English term used and sometimes still used in foreign countries as a title. Similar to "Your honor" and such. No one is "worshipped"!)

Thankfully I did it quite well. The Most Worshipful Grand Master was impressed and my lodge looked good! Next stop, Master Mason degree.