Masonic Hierarchy of Needs
It is always interesting to me how sometimes some simple discussion sends my mind off to the strangest thoughts. My wife and I were talking about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, and it made me think about what we need in our masonic life.
Maslow theorized that individuals need to satisfy base needs before moving on to the next higher need. The basic model looks like this:
I believe that masonic hierarchy of needs goes something like is.
First Level, PHYSICAL: Is the lodge comfortable and inviting? Does it allow for adequate space for the needs of the lodge and the members? If a new member or candidate walks into a lodge that is run down and does not provide for interaction, then this need is not met.
Second Level, SECURITY: Does the lodge offer a haven to its members where they feel they can find support and can depend on their brothers? Is the Lodge fiscally sound? Can brothers express grievances in an appropriate way and have their concerns addressed without being chastised?
Third Level, SOCIAL: To me this is probably the most important and a no-brainer. One of the fundamental truths of Freemasonry is “Brotherly Love and affection.” One of the strongest reason a man joins Freemasonry is for a sense of belonging, friendship, and giving back to his community. If our new brothers do not feel a sense of belonging and a strong bond with the brethren of the lodge, they will not stick around long.
Fourth Level, EGO: People need to feel respected and valued. Does everyone in your lodge feel needed and have an opportunity for participation in lodge events? Are they recognized and thanked for their efforts? Most masons do not seek awards and honors, just a heartfelt thanks.
Fifth Level SELF-ACTUALIZATION: This is probably the most difficult for a lodge to help a brother with. Do we allow the brothers to develop into the Mason they want to be and assist them on their masonic journey? Or do we push along a path and into positions that we think they should travel. Remember every person has their own talent and abilities that could help the lodge if we clearly accepted them.
Will this Masonic Hierarchy fix all your lodge’s issues? No, but if we find good men and help them discover their niche in the lodge it’s a good start. If they are supported and helped along their journey, they will probably hang around for a lifetime and not just a couple years, making our beloved fraternity stronger and wiser.