Do You "Just Belong?"

Are you an active member, the kind who would assist,
Or are you just content
That your name is on the list?

Do you attend meetings
And mingle with the crowd?
Or do you stay at home and
Cry both long and loud?

Do you take an active part
To help the cause along?
Or are you satisfied to be the kind to "just belong?"

Do you try to be among those
Who help the local group
Or leave the job for others
And just not give a hoot?

There's quite a program scheduled
That means success, if done ...
And can be accomplished
With the help of everyone.

So try to attend each meeting
And help with hand and heart
Don't be just a member—
But take an active part.

Think this over, member ...
Is this right or wrong?
Are you an active member, or do you "just belong?"

— Author unknown

"In preparing a candidate for initiation, the hat, coat, vest, watch and firearms should be removed."

Rule 6 of the "Ritual for the use of Officers of Subordinate Lodges throughout America to take effect January 1, 1905" found by Vice President Henry Wise when moving his office to a new location last year.