The decision to become a Mason (or not), should be approached seriously and soberly. Your question obviously reveals that you are of a serious frame of mind, and you are approaching the topic honestly. This is one of the reasons that Masonry is restricted to males of mature age, both chronological age, and mentally mature. Your question is one reason also, why you would make a good Mason.
Masonry requires you to take on a new way of thinking, about yourself, others, and your place in the world. Masonry is restricted to men who believe in God. No atheist can be made a Mason.
Masony is (among other things), a self-improvement course. If improving yourself, is something you do not wish to do, then you should not even consider Freemasonry.
Masonry requires a certain committment of time, and of your financial resources. (My lodge charges $65 per year in dues). If you cannot commit a couple of evenings a week to the fraternity, then do not submit an application. (There are no minimum requirements on how many meetings per year you must attend). I live in Iraq, and I cannot attend my lodge in Quincy, Mass.
As a Mason, you will be associating with other fine men, from many different religious and educational backgrounds. You will meet day laborers, and college professors, wealthy men, and men who are from modest backgrounds. Masonry is non-racial and non-sectarian. If associating with all types of men from many different backgrounds present a problem to you, then do not submit a petition.
You will be required to attend some ceremonies, where certain moral lessons are taught. There is no hazing, no childish behavior of any kind. You will not climb greased poles, nor ride any goats. You will be treated at all times, with decorum and respect. You will learn many new things, and have an opportunity to go on and participate in ritual work, and even move into leadership positions in the fraternity.
There are many reasons to become a Mason, and also many reasons to walk away, and not consider Masonry. Masonry does not seek men, Men seek Masonry. If what we have to offer, is something that is not right for you, then do not join, and we will wish you well.
You should know that the requirements to petition a lodge are strict. Not all applicants are permitted to join. You should also know, that it is very easy to drop out of Masonry. If after joining, you decide that Masonry is not right for you, then you are free to leave at any time, for any reason, or for no reason, no questions asked. This is part of the “free” in Freemasonry.
If after careful and honest deliberation, you decide that you wish to petition our honorable order, then let us know here on this board, and you will be on your way. You will not be asked to join, the decision must come from you, of your own free will.
I wish you every possible success in life, regardless of your decision
