My Brothers,
 
I don't know how many of you have already, or will have the opportunity to raise your own Son,
But I can tell you that it is a VERY emotional experience.  My Son lives, and is attending College
in Iowa.  It was a HUGE surprise when he petitioned Bluff City Lodge # 71 in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

When he told me about it, I contacted the Lodge, and Spoke with their S.W. who helped me
plan a Surprise for My Son Jim...As he was in the preparation room Wednesday March 26th, getting
ready for his 3rd degree, I slipped in and without him knowing pushed his wheelchair as he went
through the degree.  At the point where he received light, I moved from behind him, to a place
where he would be able to see me when the time came...But...he didn't see me !
(he listened to me when I told him  "Pay attention while you go through the degree's") He was
So intent on listening, his eyes didn't move!...I got back behind his chair and continued pushing
him and at a point when their SW gave him a lecture, he told him to look back at who was pushing him this whole time...It was a Great Moment, as was the second half when I helped to raise him.
 
The Master, and Senior Warden had asked the Grand Lodge of Iowa for guidance on raising a brother that is wheelchair bound,  The short story is that THEY CAME AND DID IT THEMSELVES!  It was a Great evening. I will never be able to thank my brothers of Bluff City Lodge, and The Grand Lodge of Iowa enough, but I know that they understand how much that night meant to me.                   

Rodney R. Plath

Worshipful Master-2008