Chipping at The Stone Progress is found in the repetition of small strikes. We are that rough ashlar hewned from the Quarry. But our journey to become part of a perfect building doesn't happen abruptly. It is through small, calculated changes, which remove the superfluities from our life. Are you not making fast progress in becoming a better Man and Mason? Don't worry, you are not in this journey alone. In this episode of The Winding Stairs, I share some stories that prove that we are all in this together. That we serve as inspiration to one another and that by being witnesses to each other's progress, we become a more perfect ashlar. This episode of The Winding Stairs is the first of a series of shorter episodes created to continue the conversation about self-improvement. How can we utilize the teachings of all ages into changing the way in which we Act and React in life. Chipping at the Stone is a series of shorter episodes -10 to 15 minutes- which will be published between some of the more lengthy episodes. If you enjoyed this brief installment of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast, please let us know in the comments section below. In this episode we discuss: The Introduction of Chipping at the Stone program format. A funny story about a mishap I had while recording Episode 20 of The Winding Stairs. We are human after all. Keeping our passions within due bounds is not easy! The Blue Screen of Death is still alive and well. Brother Jon Ruark's of The Masonic Roundtable and his exploration of the deeper symbolism of The Circumpunct (Point within a Circle). This episode of The Winding Stairs is made possible in part by: -Learn more about Masonic Fundraiser- Follow us on: Twitter: @WindingStairs33 Facebook: @MasonicFundraiser Questions from the Quarry: Do you have a favorite Masonic Symbol or Lesson which helps you in your daily life? -Share your thoughts below-  

Bridging the Inner Gap Look Inside Yourself It is sometimes easier to look at circumstances outside ourselves to blame for what happens in our life. But many times the problems in which we find ourselves is a direct result of things that are happening within us. As we continue exploring the podcast series Bridging the Gap, we turn our sights inward after two episodes of looking at circumstances outside of us. We have looked at how a Gap of Expectations and a Gap of Wisdom can interfere with our progress in life. Today we look at our own shortcomings and make a commitment to diligently bridge our Inner Gap to become the ultimate version of ourselves. Among the topics discussed in this episode you will find: Being brought from darkness to light liberates our vision. Circumspection: Symbol: The Circumpunct |Keeping your passions within due bounds. Definition: Thinking carefully about possible risks before doing or saying something. (Merriam Webster) Unwillingness or Wariness to take risk. Prudence (Oxford). Your Sphere of influence Circumpunct: You are the point within the circle. Circumambulation: The act of walking around something. Especially ritualistically. Circumambulation happens in Masonic ritual and practice. Initiation Degree Team Officers as they move through their chairs. Introspection: Look inside yourself. “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” - Aristotle “Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” - C.G. Jung Haggai 1:5-7 Now therefore, thus says the LORD of hosts, "Consider your ways! "You have sown much, but harvest little; you eat, but there is not enough to be satisfied; you drink, but there is not enough to become drunk; you put on clothing, but no one is warm enough; and he who earns, earns wages to put into a purse with holes." Thus says the LORD of hosts, "Consider your ways! Seeing yourself in others. The Epictetus “When you are offended at any man's fault, turn to yourself and study your own failings. Then you will forget your anger.” - Epictetus, Greek Stoic Philosopher. Retrospection: Looking into the past. Looking at your own past. It doesn't define you. Having a history of intolerance or impatience shouldn't define your future. Links Mentioned in this episode: If you are looking for Masonic Fundraiser ideas for your Lodge or Appendant Body, visit MasonicFundraiser.com to sign up FREE for our exclusive fundraiser program. Download our Free Book, Masonic Light Resource Report Do you want to be among the first to be notified when my New Book is released, click here to sign up for my email newsletter. View our latest artwork titled "Light of Wisdom", which is dedicated to Past Masters and would make a great gift. Visit FreemasonryArt.com This Episode of The Winding Stairs was brought to you by MasonicFundraiser.com   Do you have any advice for others who might need to look inside and bridge the gaps that affect them? Have you found the Bridging the Gap Series useful? Do you have a favorite episode in this series? Please add your comments below to help us gauge the usefulness of these posts. I look forward to your feedback. Photo Credits: Cracked Wall (Main Illustration) by Leonardo Aguiar, licensed under CC by 2.0