Ill. A. Gene Cobb, Jr., 33°
Sovereign Grand Inspector
General of North Carolina

My brothers,

In Morals and Dogma for the 25th Degree, we read:

With the Vernal Equinox, or about the 25th of March of our Calendar, they found that there unerringly came soft winds, the return of warmth, caused by the Sun.

Even more interesting is the footnote to this passage that I leave for you to read and "hear what you will hear." For me, these words connect not only important matters of my own religious persuasion but also how the seasons transition from death to life, much like what we do as God's children.

Consider nature's transition from the dead of winter to the life of spring, with green grass, colorful flowers, and warm air. It reminds us how the Supreme Architect of the Universe's wisdom has made it happen for our benefit.

Consider the warmth of human relationships and their importance in maintaining balance in our lives. How do we balance our love for family, faith, friends, and fraternity? How might it help us where we need new life? How might we transition? Pause. Reflect. I encourage you to remember these things in your devotions.

As we conclude our reunions, we move forward from the present to the future. Let us not forget from whence we came. Let us strive not to be better than the brethren but to be better than ourselves every day.

In so doing, I believe we will recover the warmth of both the Sun and our Creator's love for us and one another.

Most Sincerely,
Gene Cobb, 33° Sovereign Grand Inspector General of North Carolina