The North Carolina Mason

There are so many great songs that Elvis is known for, but one of my favorites is "If I Can Dream" which was released to the public in 1968 as the finale to what is now known as the '68 Comeback Special. Elvis believed in that song, and it is said that during the original recording it was sung with such emotion that the backing vocalists had tears rolling down their cheeks. Dreams… without dreams we do not have hope, and without hope, what do we have? I have carried a long-held dream of our brothers finally putting aside petty and deep-seated biases and pulling together to become true builders. Builders of character, moral fortitude, and Masonic philosophy. Can you imagine our potential and the impact that we could have on this state and the world? Again, this is a long-held dream and one that I will continue to hold onto… but, as you know, our focus for this year was much more grounded and centered upon reengaging the craft after emerging from a world pandemic. To be honest, I have been astounded at just how well the idea of a "Masonic Revival" has resonated within our grand jurisdiction. We have seen lodges transform from ordinary to extraordinary over the past year with a record number of Lion and Pillar awards being presented. To celebrate our revival, we reintroduced a different type of district gathering by way of the table lodge, or harmony; and even though we asked our participants to pay anywhere from $60-100 per ticket for these events, we were at capacity each time. Demand was overwhelming and, at the request of several lodges, the Grand Lodge office is now putting together guidelines that will allow your lodge to host a harmony. We've had a lot of fun with our charity fundraisers this year and I am more than pleased with the results. The Revival cigar has generated in excess of $36,500 in proceeds and will continue to be a source of charitable income now that Hiram and Solomon has introduced it as part of their main line. Larry B. Thompson Jr. Grand Master FM tHE GND MTEr If we can dream... Thanks to my mother, in 1976 I had the opportunity to see Elvis perform at the Ovens Auditorium in Charlotte. Those of you who know me well have heard me speak about that experience and what a lasting impression that it made in my life. 4 | T H E M A S O N M AGA Z I N E

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