SMC Reception - 2001
Remarks of State Master Councilor Justin Nobles
"My initial reaction [to the terrorist attacks in New York and Washington on September 11, 2001]
was to cancel or postpone this evenings festivities. I
felt it might be inappropriate to have a celebration while so many continue
to suffer. But after consultation with my parents, Dad Bohn, and the other
state officers, it was decided that we would move forward. So it is with a
heavy heart that I address you this evening.
"Last Tuesday, I, along with the vast majority of America, watched in horror
as the events of the day were played out over the airwaves. The video
footage of planes crashing, buildings collapsing and Americans being hurt
was beyond my belief. My immediate thoughts, as with most Americans, was
that of shock and of disbelief. Being associated with DeMolay, an
organization that teaches brotherly love, relief and compassion, it is
beyond my comprehension that ANY human being or group of human beings can so
callously devastate the lives of so many in such a gruesome and cowardly
fashion.
"Our leader, President Bush, has promised that those involved will in time
be brought to justice and punished for their acts, and I for one, will stand
behind the decisions he must now make. But we in the Masonic family, along
with the rest of the world, will ultimately be judged for our acts by a
higher authority. Every member of DeMolay takes upon himself certain
obligations ... at the Holy Altar. Obligations that
include compassion, brotherly love and patriotism. They are not obligations
that we take lightly. The Seventh Precept adorning the Crown of Youth is
Patriotism, and as I have stated on many occasions, our country is in need of
organizations such as ours now more than at any other time in her glorious
history. As the leader of our State Association, I state unequivocally,
that in her time of need, we will not now, nor will we ever, let her down.
Therefore, I call upon every DeMolay of age to donate blood as soon as
possible. I further call upon the younger members, advisors, and parents
club members to donate whatever items they can so that those in need may
feel the relief they so desperately seek....
"As New York Mayor Rudy Gulliani so eloquently stated, 'Life must go on.
Not to ... would be to cow to those who would do us harm.' As difficult as
it may be, we must now begin the process of healing by moving forward.
Although I will never forget our fallen citizens, tonight, I choose to honor
their lives by dedicating this evening's event to their memory."
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