Order from Chaos
It is said that Einstein once said something along the lines of, “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” It is a concept worth reflecting on – especially in these uncertain times, and an idea that helps us take the hardest and most important step: the first one. In what seems to be a very chaotic world, how do we transform chaos into order? Good question.
The first step is to consider goals and determine what is important to us. Identifying priorities and desired direction helps establish guardrails for the path we walk. This process involves examining one’s own roles and objectives, as well as outlining steps to achieve desired outcomes. While this approach is commonly applied at the lodge through exercises like planning annual calendars, officer meetings, or committee work, it also applies to personal development. One critical error is to create such resources and never re-visit them again, or to only do so infrequently.
At a recent area conference, we discussed mission statements. It is important to capture the mission of an organization – especially if it helps to center itself. As famous Apple Evangelist Guy Kowasaki highlights, if you want to be successful as an organization, the organization must make meaning. For Masons, that could be a lot of things – but perhaps a good start is remembering the promises we have made to the lodge and supporting those around us. Further, who benefits from a mission? Is it intended solely for communicating who we are to those who seek admission into our lodge, or does it serve another function?
For communicating with others, a Mantra might be more meaningful. That said, I’d pose that the power behind a mission statement is in recognition of value, and a tool for prioritization. As a silly example, I might ask myself if it is appropriate for a lodge to invest in an ice cube shop in Alaska. Does this potential investment support the organization’s mission, and in what ways? Lodges should discuss opportunities and their mission statement in this way. That said, organizational effectiveness extends beyond lodge objectives; to contribute meaningfully to a whole, individuals must develop self-awareness and understand their own needs. Having the discipline to write a personal mission statement and evaluate opportunities regularly is how we find the balance we seek in dividing our time and where we invest it. Without this practice, it is certain someone else will decide for us and we become victims of chaotic unpredictability.
A few words on saying “no”. Many want to avoid using that cursed word but do so to their own peril. Not saying “no” closes doors to other opportunities or can destroy credibility when commitments are not followed through on or are done so in word but not spirit. Instead, it is important to spend a few minutes each week evaluating our various roles: father, Mason, employee, friend, etc. and striving to apply our lessons to find the appropriate balance between them. Repeat the planning weekly at the same time to build a new habit.
We depend on support from our spouses, friends, family, Brothers, and colleagues. Expanding our focus to society, it’s vital to value relationships and listen openly to others’ ideas. Achieving more together requires effort, patience, acceptance of diverse views, trust in others’ intentions, and the understanding that there are enough resources and opportunities for all. For a little more perspective, consider reading over Andy Weir’s story of the Egg. What if it were true – would it change how you interface with the rest of the world?
Relationships and trust take a lot of time to earn, and I believe that is why our progressive lines are multiple year progressions. If you aren’t friends with those you are serving with, it will be a constant challenge. Do you check-in from time to time just to make sure those around you are OK? Do you hang out after lodge, see movies, watch football, play cards, ride motorcycle, or whatever your favorite activities might be? If not, why not?
The main point is that growth, whether for a lodge or an individual, requires clear intent and ongoing communication. Revisiting intentions and taking regular steps toward goals -even if slowly is essential. Avoid stress by fostering relationships and making time for yourself, family, and fellow members. Balance your schedule to support continuous improvement both within and outside the lodge. How do you turn chaos into order? The answer is with friends, intention and tenacity.
With that, travel well my Brothers.
Fraternally,
Brad Phelps, Grand LEO