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HUMAN MORALITY, CHRISTIAN Life in a State of Grace Seek always to live…

- - - - Hubris: An exaggerated sense of one's abilities or accomplishments, often leading to arrogance and downfall.
        
        Vanity: An empty, excessive desire to be admired or an inflated sense of one's image.
        
        Vainglory: Seeking human acclaim and taking credit for one's actions, often considered a form of pride.
        
        Conceit/Self-Conceit: An unreasonable, high opinion of oneself.
        
        Arrogance/Haughtiness: The attitude of superiority and contempt for others.
        
        Egotism/Self-love: An intense focus on oneself.
      - Pride of Spirituality, Pride of Knowledge, Pride of Power and Pride of Appearance
      - The Twelve Degrees of Humility and of Pride
        by Saint Bernard of Clairvaux
        
        THE TWELVE DEGREES OF PRIDE
        I. Curiosity, when a man allows His sight and other senses to stray after things which do not concern him.
        II. An unbalanced state of mind, showing itself in talk unseasonably joyous and sad.
        III. Silly merriment, exhibited in too frequent laughter.
        IV. Conceit, expressed in much talking.
        V. Eccentricity attaching exaggerated importance to one's own conduct.
        VI. Self-assertion holding oneself to be more pious than others.
        VII. Presumption readiness to undertake anything.
        VIII. Defence of wrong-doing.
        IX. Unreal confession detected when severe penance is imposed.
        X. Rebellion against the rules and the brethren.
        XI. Liberty to sin.
        XII. Habitual transgression.
        
        THE TWELVE DEGREES OF HUMILITY
        XII. A permanent attitude of bodily; and spiritual prostration.
        XI. The speech of a monk should be short, sensible and in a subdued tone.
        X. Abstinence from frequent and light laughter.
        IX. Reticence, until asked for his opinion.
        VIII. Observance of the general rule of the monastery.
        VII. Belief in and declaration of one's inferiority to others.
        VI. Admission and acknowledgment of one's own unworthiness and uselessness.
        V. Confession of sins.
        IV. Patient endurance of hardship and severity in a spirit of obedience.
        III. Obedient submission to superiors.
        II. Forbearance to press personal desire.
        I. Constant abstinence from sin for fear of God.
- - - - MERCY
      - PEACE
      - RECIPROCITY
      - BENEVOLENCE
      - FRIENDSHIP
      - COMMUNION
      - JOY
      - BENEFICENCE
      - BELIEF
      - HOPE
    - - HATRED
      - SLOTH
      - ENVY
      - DISCHORD
      - QUARRELING
      - OBJECTIFYING (others)
      - BOASTFULNESS
      - ARROGANCE
      - RUDENESS
      - IRRITABLENESS
      - RESENTMENT
      - PETTY SPITE
  - - - GOOD RELATIONSHIPS
        
        SELF
        
        SELF-KNOWLEDGE
        
        SELF-CONTROL
        
        COMMUNITY
        
        FRIENDSHIPS
        
        NEIGHBORS
        
        FAMILY
        
        COLLEAGUES
      - PERSONAL RIGHTS
      - BALANCED PASSIONS
      - RESPECT
        
        FOR THE SELF
        
        FOR OTHERS
    - - LUST
        
        MASTURBATION
        
        FORNICATION
        
        PORNOGRAPHY
        
        PROSTITUTION
      - PRUDISHNESS
      - SELF-SUBJUGATION
- - - - BRKMSN
        
        3. Esther (White) – Royalty and Fidelity
        
        Story: Esther, a Jewish queen of Persia, risked her life to save her people, displaying courage, wisdom, and patriotism. She is a beacon of bravery in the face of oppression.
        
        Virtue: Fidelity and moral courage—standing up for righteousness even when facing personal danger.
        
        Color Symbolism: White, representing purity, innocence, and enlightenment.
      - HRMN-WIX
        
        Esther – Book of Esther
        Esther is the Third Star Point Heroine. Shares lesson of Loyalty to Family and Friends. Her name means “star.” Her intercession on behalf of the Jewish people was a “star of hope and encouragement.
        White: The color white is appropriate to Esther because though crowned a queen, was beautiful and wealthy, she succeeded in remaining pure, upright, and simple. Her life and actions were free from blemish in every way.
        White Lily: The beautiful white lily symbolizes purity and peace.
        Symbol: The symbol for the 3rd Star Point is the “SUN.” It is the source of light, power, and strength and symbolizes the leadership of Esther which made her the strength and power of the Jewish people.
        Jewel: The diamond is the jewel chosen to represent Esther. Her character was flawless, her standards and beliefs durable, and her life was a great value to her people.
        Emblem: Crown & Scepter The Crown symbolizes the highest honor and obligation : the Scepter represent great power Together they symbolize the forces of power and authority to insure justice to all. Esther represents the Ideal Wife. She succeeded in fulfilling her duty to her husband but also maintained her high standards and performed her duty to God and her nation.
    - - BRKMSN
        
        4. Martha (Green) – Faith in Immortality
        
        Story: Martha, a devoted follower of Jesus, represents faith in resurrection and eternal life.
        She symbolizes trust in divine promises and the hope of salvation.
        
        Virtue: Steadfast faith—believing in a higher power and the immortality of the soul.
        
        Color Symbolism: Green, representing hope, renewal, and eternal life.
      - HRMN-WIX
        
        Martha: St. John 11: 1-57
        Martha is the fourth of the Star Point Heroines She shares the lesson of Faith and Trust to God and everlasting life
        Martha represents the “ideal” sister. She assumed responsibility for the care and comfort of her brother Lazarus and her sister Mary. Martha’s name means fortitude, abiding and instructed by God. Martha had the fortitude to maintain her faith, even upon the death of her brother, and by abiding in the Word of God as instructed by Christ.
        Green: Deep green represents the color of Martha’s station. Green, which symbolizes renewed life and growth is the symbol of new life which is eternal for all men through Christ.
        Fern: The fern is a symbol of the endlessness of eternal life.
        Symbol: The symbol for the 4th Star Point is the lamb. In this time, the lamb was symbolic terminology for Christ.
        Jewel: The jewel to represent Martha is the emerald. It is said that the emerald insures all kind of domestic happiness. Ancient superstition held that the emerald possessed certain medicinal properties.
        Season: Winter is the season which represents Martha. Martha represents the knowledge that the winter of mortal life, or death, comes to all.
        Emblem: The emblem symbolizing Martha is the Broken Column. Martha’s faith in God’s promise of eternal life through faith in Christ remained constant even when her brother’s life was taken by a mortal death.
    - - BRKMSN
        
        5. Electa (Red) – Fortitude and Endurance
        
        Story: Electa, a representation of Christian martyrs, endured persecution for her faith. Her story exemplifies strength, endurance, and self-sacrifice.
        
        Virtue: Fortitude and patience—remaining steadfast through trials and tribulations.
        
        Color Symbolism: Red, representing zeal, fervency, and sacrifice.
      - HRMN-WIX
        
        Electa: 2nd Epistle of John l: 1-13
        Electa is the 5th Star Point Heroine. She shares the lesson of charity and hospitality. Electa represents the “Ideal Mother.” She sacrificed everything to establish a Christian heritage for her children. Her name means “honorable, Lady, and “called of God.
        Red: The brilliant red represents fervency, hospitality and love.
        Red Rose: The deep red rose is symbolic of love. It represents Electa’s love of family, her fellow man, and Christ and God.
        Symbol: The lion represents Electa as a symbol of power and strength and her devotion to Christ.
        Jewel: The ruby is dedicated to Electa. It represent her warmth, love, and sacrifice.
        Season: The season dedicated to Electa is autumn. Autumn represents the period of full maturity in the lifetime of an individual.
        Emblem: The cup is the emblem of Electa. It represents one’s allotted portion of life’s joys or sorrows.
        The ideals of Electa are Love and Hospitality. These characteristics may be emulated by acting with love toward one’s fellow man, and by loving Christ and God with all of the mind and heart.
    - - BRKMSN
        
        1. Adah (Blue) – Filial Love and Obedience
        
        Story: Adah, the daughter of Jephthah, is a figure of devotion and sacrifice. She embodies the principle of filial love, demonstrating unwavering loyalty to her father's vow.
        
        Virtue: Obedience and integrity—staying true to one's word even in difficult circumstances.
        
        Color Symbolism: Blue, representing loyalty, truth, and fidelity.
      - HRMN-WIX
        
        Adah - Judges 11: 1-40
        
        The first of the Star Point heroines.Shares lessons of duty of obedience to the will of GodThe name Adah does not appear in the Bible. She is referred to as Jephthah’s daughter. “Adah” was the name given her by the founder of our Order, Dr. Robert Morris. She represents the Ideal Daughter because of her sense of duty and her devotion to her father. The name Adah means “Ornament.”
        
        Although the name does not appear in the Bible it is an appropriate choice. Not only may it be said that Adah’s innocent spirit and faultless character were her own personal ornaments, but she was a daughter who so exemplified these virtues as an ornament to her father’s life.Blue: The clear blue of the skies is the color dedicated to the first Star Point. It is the symbol of fidelity, loyalty and intelligence.Violet: The violet is dedicated to Adah because of its association with meekness and humility.Symbol: The symbol for the first Star Point is the Open Bible. It was to signify that only the Word of God may direct the individual in the right way in which to go.Jewel: The turquoise or the blue sapphire are used to represent the virtues of Adah.Season: Adah represents the SPRING of the year. Her life is representative of the early womanhood of life.The story of Adah challenges each of us to carry throughout our lives, the innocence and sweetness of a young girl and to approach our live problems with the enthusiasm and willingness as Adah approached the problems she had to face.Emblem: The emblem for Adah is the Sword and Veil. It represents the concept that the sword must sometimes be taken up in the defense of right and in the performance of duty.
    - - BRKMSN
        
        2. Ruth (Yellow) – Devotion and Friendship
        
        Story: Ruth, known for her steadfast loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi, showcases deep faith and perseverance. Her unwavering devotion led her to be rewarded with a place in the lineage of King David.
        
        Virtue: Commitment and selflessness—putting the needs of others before oneself.
        
        Color Symbolism: Yellow, representing friendship, warmth, and constancy.
      - HRMN-WIX
        
        Ruth - Book of Ruth
        The second of the Star Point heroines. Shares lessons of Honor & Justice. The name Ruth means “friend.” She represents the “Ideal Widow” because she cherished her family, faith, and inheritance of her husband above her every personal ambition, her original native allegiance, and her originally heathen religion.
        Yellow: The color yellow represents “constancy,” “exalted,” and richness. Ruth is definitely characterized by a strong and radiant personality and therefore the “color of the sun” is dedicated to her.
        Jasmine: The yellow jasmine is dedicated to Ruth because it has a meaning of “humbleness.”
        Symbol: The symbol of the station of Ruth is the Lily of the Valley. It is said, as Christ, the Lily of the Valley, left his heavenly home and His Father to serve humankind on earth, so Ruth left her home and people to serve her fellow man in strange and unfamiliar country.
        Jewel: The yellow Topaz which is very rare is the jewel dedicated to Ruth. A friendship such as Ruth and Naomi is a rare “gem” and well worth treasuring.
        Season: Ruth represents the summer season. The time of growing and maturing of life itself.
        The story of Ruth challenges each of us to serve our fellow man and to extend the hand of friendship to those in need.
        Emblem: The sheaf is the emblem dedicated to Ruth. It represents the collective worth of many small deeds of kindness which are done for the sake of another.
  - - - STAR COLORS
        
        Green: Growth, resurrection, and eternal life.
        
        Red: Passion, courage, and unwavering devotion.
        
        Blue: Truth, constancy, and divine guidance.
        
        Yellow: Joy, enlightenment, and enduring friendship.
        
        White: Purity, faith, and spiritual insight.
      - SYMBOLS
        
        Sword and veil (blue): Adah, who embodies fidelity.
        
        Sheaf of barley (yellow): Ruth, who represents constancy.
        
        Crown and scepter (white): Esther, who exemplifies light, purity, and joy.
        
        Broken column (green): Martha, who embodies hope and immortality.
        
        Golden cup (red): Electa, who represents love or fervency.
    - - The Crown and Scepter
        
        Symbolizes: Authority, leadership, and divine favor.
        
        Associated with: Esther, who used her influence as queen to protect her people.
      - The Broken Column
        
        Symbolizes: Mortality and the transient nature of life.
        
        Associated with: Martha, reflecting her belief in the resurrection.
      - The Sword and the Trowel
        
        Symbolizes: Justice and the building of moral character.
        
        SWORD, protection, vigilance, and upholding righteousness.
        
        TROWEL, building a strong foundation in faith and virtue.
    - - CHARITY
      - KINDNESS
      - TRUTH
  - - - SHARING KNOWLEDGE
      - SPIRITUAL ENLIGHTMENT
      - PURSUIT OF TRUTH
    - - SEEK WISDOM IN ALL MATTERS
      - ABIDE THE MORAL TEACHINGS
    - - The "Triangle of Battle" refers to a symbolic, ritualistic concept within the Order of the Eastern Star (OES) comprising the stations of Adah, Electa, and Esther within their central star, representing battles of faith, duty, and loyalty. It is distinct from the Battle of Triangle Hill, a Korean War conflict, and the Iron Triangle communication center.
      - Key Details Regarding the "Triangle of Battle" (OES):
        
        Symbolism: It represents the triumph of virtue and is considered a symbol of perfection within the Chapter.
        
        The Points: The three angles of the triangle are formed by three specific Star Points:
        
        Adah: Represents the battle to save her father's honor (duty).
        
        Electa: Represents the battle of the Cross (love and charity).
        
        Esther: Represents the battle for the safety of her people (loyalty).
        
        Ritual Use: It is associated with the Star Points and the "triangular steps" used to move between stations.
  - - - Strengthens Personal Values: each emblem's "Virtue" guides members in their daily lives
      - Fosters Community Connections: shared symbols create a sense of unity and common purpose among members
      - reflection strengthens personal values, leading to a greater self-awareness and spiritual enlightenment
      - Offers Spiritual Growth & Lifelong Learning: explores a deeper connection to heartfelt goals and new journeys
      - Uncovers a legacy of enlightenment and virtue, one that continues to inspire members, new and old alike
- - - - Key Officer Stations
        (Appointed/Elected)
        
        SOUTHEAST
        Drill Leader: Manages the movement of members in the room.
        
        SOUTHEAST
        Chaplain: Leads prayers.
        
        SOUTHEAST
        Recorder and Treasurer: Responsible for records and finances, often serving one-year terms.
        
        Faith, Hope, and Charity: The three main stations representing the principles of the order.
        
        WEST
        Worthy Associate Advisor (WAA): The second-in-command, preparing for the role of WA.
        
        EAST
        Worthy Advisor (WA): The presiding officer, or "President," of the local Assembly.
        
        SOUTHWEST
        Outer and Inner Observers: Guards for the assembly room.
      - These offices, typically are designed to build leadership, public speaking, and responsibility.
    - - The seven color stations, often arranged in a bow formation in the assembly room, represent the foundational teachings of the organization:
      - BOW STATIONS
        (Appointed)
        
        Patriotism
        
        Indigo (Patriotism): Emphasizes respect for the country and its flag.
        
        as a supporter of local events & governance
        
        as a show of respect for giving military service
        
        as an upstanding citizen of the country
        
        Fidelity
        
        Blue (Fidelity): Represents loyalty to the order, family, and friends.
        
        Immortality
        
        Green (Immortality): Teaches that souls live on.
        
        Nature
        
        Yellow (Nature): Emphasizes appreciation for the outdoors.
        
        Religion
        
        Orange (Religion): Focuses on active participation in a church or spiritual community
        
        Love
        
        Red (Love): Emphasizes love of home and family.
        
        Service
        
        in Solemn Memoriam, upon the passing of our sponsors or members
        
        to the Community, to brighten lives and improve our neighborhoods
        
        to the Chapter House, in gratitude for hosting our gatherings
        
        Violet (Service): Represents service to humanity.
  - - - MATRICULATED
      - CURRENT
- - - - Symbolic Meanings of 3, 5, and 7 (the components of 357):
        
        Three (3): Represents harmony, the Divine, and fundamental Masonic principles.
        
        Five (5): Signifies the five senses, the five orders of architecture, and the five points of fellowship, emphasizing human faculties and building.
        
        Seven (7): Relates to the seven liberal arts and sciences, spiritual perfection, and the seven-branched candlestick, encouraging knowledge and wisdom.
      - "Mason 357" Usage:
        
        Ritualistic Reference:
        A "Mason 357" may be someone familiar with or referencing the specific lectures in the Preston-Webb ritual, often dealing with the symbolism of 3, 5, and 7 in the Fellow Craft's journey.
        
        Membership Drives:
        In some jurisdictions, the 3-5-7 plan is a target: recruit 3 new members, reinstate 5% of lost members, and retain at least 93% (lose no more than 7%).
- - - - CURRENT
      - MATRICULATED
- - - - CURRENT
      - MATRICULATED
- - - - IDOLATRY OF FALSE GODS
      - PRIDE || IDOLATRY OF THE SELF
- - - - The Liturgy of the Hours
- - - - III. inanis gloria (seven sub-vices)
      - IIII. ira (seven sub-vices)
      - fructus carnis
        
        V. gula (seven sub-vices)
        
        VI. acedia (seven sub-vices)
        
        VII. luxuria (seven sub-vices)
- - - - III. iustitia) (seven sub-virtues)
      - IIII. temperantia (seven sub-virtues)
      - fructus spiritus
        
        V. fides (seven sub-virtues)
        
        VI. spes (seven sub-virtues)
        
        VII. caritas) (seven sub-virtues)
- - - - SOCIALIZING (gender/sex)