Farewell and Thank You to my Lodge Brethren

Brethren,

What a year!!! Last August I sat down to prepare for my time in the East and believe me when I say I had no idea the plan would have to change so drastically! What I had presented during the Officer and Past Master BBQ was destined to be tweaked every step of the way. I have always said, “One must have a plan and then you have to work it” and that is what we did.

This year we seem to have experienced a vast array of emotions. Some of us lost loved ones and could not properly mourn them with family and friends. Others have had additions to their families or wanted to celebrate something special but could not because of the pandemic restrictions. This was a year we will not soon forget.

In my humble opinion and with our lodge brethren’s help, Trenton Cyrus Lodge had another successful masonic year, despite the many hurdles that were thrown our way. It seems like just yesterday when I made my remarks as your incoming Worshipful Master. It was the beginning of a journey that I could not fully comprehend at the time. They say that time flies when you are having fun and I want my brethren to know that I have had a tremendous time sitting in the East.

As the 2020 Masonic year draws to a close, I can report to you that your Lodge is healthy and strong. In terms of leadership, I believe that when you look at the strength and dedication of our Line Officers, Trenton Cyrus No. 5 stands on solid ground for the foreseeable future. Your Line Officers are committed to a course of action that will preserve and grow the Craft. They are equally committed to preserving our rich traditions and to promoting an atmosphere of warm fellowship and genuine Brotherly love.

In recent weeks I have been asked if I am happy to see the year draw to a close and my honest answer has probably not been what was expected because by no means have I been counting the days until I can relinquish my responsibilities. I have truly relished every moment and every step of this journey. I would not exchange it for anything. I would say now to every line officer and to every brother who would someday like to be in the line, enjoy the journey, savor the moment, make your time count and leave behind your very best effort, because all too soon you will reach the end of your time in the officers’ line and when you do, I hope you can look back with as much joy and satisfaction as I now do.

In closing Brethren, I humbly say thank you for allowing me to serve as your Worshipful Master, it has been my distinct pleasure. There are no words to sum up what all of this has meant to me and to say that I have enjoyed my time in the East, well, that would be an absolute understatement. The honor and privilege of serving as your Worshipful Master is something I will cherish for a lifetime. But more than anything what I really cherish is your Brotherly love and warm fellowship. I am very proud to have served Trenton Cyrus #5 Lodge from the Oriental Chair.

God Bless and Be Well,

David LaBaw, PM
TC5 Worshipful Master