12/10/2017
So why do Lodges fail? Despite the enthusiastic support in Nevada City in 2016 of a whole new generation - this Lodge has failed. For the many who have joined in expectation of "doing good," of aiding "the widows and orphans" and "relieving the distressed" - Oustomah has become a hollow shell and a false promise. For anyone actually interested in preserving our Order, in honoring our Traditions (of Ritual, Secret Works and form) - this will serve as a "learning moment." Odd Fellow has a long and honorable tradition; based on altruism, community service and true brotherhood - but when the very tenets of our Order become so debased that they disallow the active initiation of new members - because of their politics, religion, race or cultural ethnicity and use the very processes, who "liberally construe" our Code to deny others qualified for and to the benefits of Odd Fellowship - that is the time to re-assess the true meaning of Odd Fellowship. The Grand Lodge is not to blame - for in their work and letters, the great words of support for encouraging and welcoming new generations into our Order have not been ignored - even so, the strictures of previous generations - not eschewing their political leanings and cultural, even racial prejudices still color this Lodge, if not others. How to be gentle and non-critical, to be welcoming even of those who are unwelcoming - that is the challenge of Odd Fellows during these turbulent times.