CLC - ENTERED APPRENTICE - 05.22.17

F AIRNESS The more formal Masonic term for “fairness” is Justice. Our lecture says that Justice is a “standard or boundary of right.” We are further reminded that fairness defines the “really good man.” It is doubtful if anyone would call a man “good” if he did not have a reputation as a fair and just human being. But “fairness” is not easily worked out, for it has to be understood in context. Fairness does not necessarily mean treating each person the same, regardless of condition. We are expected to take conditions into account when applying “fairness.” A brother who is in need of the basic necessities of life has a claim on our compassion and charity, but there are occasions where fairness requires us to balance these claims with the claims of others – and especially our obligation to our family. Freemasonry recognizes this. But properly understood, Justice – which is what “fairness” truly is – will become clear to us. As with other virtues, fairness takes thought and practice.

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