Testimonials

Tim Laws

Benton Lodge #111

I first heard about Masonry when I was 17 or 18 years old; a good friend of mine's Dad sat him and me down one evening to give us the talk that some teenage boys need. He told us how much the lodge could help us. At that time in my life, it went in one ear and out the other I never thought much about it again for around 30 years. In time my friend and I went different paths in life, we only talked occasionally. Reading the paper one morning, I saw that my friend's Dad had passed all the advice he tried to give us filled my brain for several days. I talked to another friend about Masonry through him and a few others and found out what I needed to do. I had to ask a Mason for a petition and went through each of my 3 degrees. I was taught valuable life lessons and met some of the most incredible men I have ever met. I am a Christian and study my bible. Through the teaching of Masonry, I learned my bible much better because Masonry filled a gap in my life that I didn't even know was a gap. Through the teaching of Masonry, a man will become a better person and make great friends. My name is Tim Laws; I would gladly try to answer any questions I can. God Bless!

Jimmy (Slick) Smith

Benton Lodge #111

In 2013, I read a book written in 1870 by a man named Goodspeeed. Who went around the state interviewing people after the Civil War. Two of the people interviewed were my Confederate ancestors, and they were both Master Masons. I didn't know about Masonry, and nobody would tell me, so I asked a friend about being a Mason, and he told me I had asked the right question. So, I started my journey as a Mason and have never regretted it. I now feel more in touch with my Ancestors because I am the same as them. 

Donnie Thompson

Benton Lodge #111

I first considered Masonry when I was very isolated within my community. I have commuted for over an hour since I was seventeen. Because of my work schedule, I lost contact with most neighbors and people outside my company. A few good friends of mine mentioned their involvement in Masonry from time to time, and once I showed interest, they were happy to sit down and talk with me about their experience. At first, I was apprehensive because of the secrecy I assumed there would be. I learned that Masonry is a brotherhood with secrets, not a secret brotherhood, this may sound like a distinction without a difference, but you will see the difference if you pursue Masonry and ask questions. I found a community that genuinely wants to help its members and those around them. More than that, I found a brotherhood filled with men who want to see you improve and grow. In a world filled with hate and toxicity, it's refreshing just to be accepted. I have also found absolute joy in learning as much as I can about the teachings of Masonry and the history of the Lodges and Members. Joining this with Bible study has made me calmer and happier. I also found that some of the people I've enjoyed working with in my past were Masons, and I only know that now because I started my journey. The men in Masory have been humble, caring, and genuine, and they would benefit any man in today's society.