WHY I'M PROUD TO BE A MOOSE
Proud is a derivative of the word pride that according to Webster's is defined as the manifestation of a great feeling of satisfaction, but to me pride is much more.
Pride is driving into Mooseheart or Moosehaven and looking into the eyes of our children and our seniors and seeing the sense of security knowing that their futures are bright. That makes me Proud to Be A Moose.
Pride is attending a meeting and contributing to the endowment fund and knowing the Power of the Penny has worked and is still working today. Knowing a burden for one is borne lightly by many, that makes me Proud to Be A Moose.
Knowing the history of our great fraternity and how it's precepts have not deviated from those given to us by Brother James Davis. "That no man stands as tall as when he stoops to help a child." That makes me Proud to Be A Moose.
Going to bed at night knowing all the good we have done for our community and the fun and fellowship that went into making people happy. That makes me Proud to Be A Moose.
The protection and benefits afforded to my immediate and extended family within our defending circle. That makes me Proud to Be A Moose.
To stand in the shadow of our majestic namesake who is a large powerful animal, but one which is a protector not a predator. "He takes only what he needs, nothing more…yet for his great size and strength he lives in peace with other creatures. The moose uses his size and power not to dominate but to protect, not to spoil but to preserve. He is a fierce protector, loyal companion, and a generous provider who brings comfort and security to those in his care." He kneels as he eats as if to say thanks to the Supreme Being for all that is good. These images make me Proud to Be A Moose.
So the next time you receive your dues statement in the mail don't look upon it as a bill or obligation, but rather as a manifestation of a great feeling of satisfaction of pride in being a Moose.
Ron Kozuszek, Governor Lodge 2608
As printed in the November/December 2003 Moose Tails Newsletter.
2nd place in the editorial contest for 2004.