I know very little of masonry, yet i feel in my soul im to be one. I have had an extremely difficult life and i try as hard as i can to make myself a better person everyday. Right now, this very day i am plagued by my mistakes from years ago with no hope but to endure alone. My uncle is a 32 degree mason whom i havent spoken to in a few years. He doesnt know i know. There is no one i am more like or want to be like than him. I feel like ive cheated myself from ever feeling that sense of belonging and being part of the bigger picture. Shouldnt humans be forgiven for being human? How can mason society not forgive someone of a past transgression? Am i to believe that no mason has made major mistakes in their lives?
That they never made mistakes as a young man?

Dear Maine Visitor:
In Maine a candidate must be male, at least 18 years of age, able to profess a belief in God, and be of good character. In Maine, no lodge, without the permission of the Grand Master, shall receive a petition of a candidate for the degrees until he has resided in the state one year. That said, it may be worth while to visit the http://WWW.MaineMason.org site to search for a local lodge in your region and contact their Secretary of the Lodge. Arrange a visit with the officers and discuss your specific scenario. Having a family member within the craft is a major benefit to many interested men. Their guidance and support is highly desirable for a young man and the Lodge being petitioned. Ronald Doucette - Moderator

Dear t159:
If your ultimate direction is to relocate and your roots are there and your family members reside there; that is half the battle on residency.  I suggest that you proceed to contact the Lodge of interest and talk to them. There are certain provisions for exceptions to the Grand Master’s residency requirements, but you will need to discuss all your issues with them.  Best of Luck,
Ronald Doucette - Moderator