Alas, My Brother

by Midnight Freemason Guest Contributor

WB Ken Baril

Last evening, about six-thirty,

I went to a visitation

For a departed Brother of a Masonic Lodge

Without any hesitation.

I slowly entered the funeral home,

Rather solemnly, I confess.

I thought I would be greeted by many

Of his Masonic Brothers, no less.

Only three of his Lodge Brother’s were present,

While the family sat alone.

Where is all the Brotherly Love

His Brothers should have shown?

Not only was I embarrassed,

For I could feel the family’s pain,

Of not seeing their loved ones Brothers,

As the mourners went and came.

The Masonic oaths we took on bended knee,

Should mean much more than this.

Have we lost sight of what they mean?

My Brothers, something surely is amiss.

We certainly have an obligation,

To make time to say Good-bye:

 Eternity is a long, long, time

For tear filled eyes to dry.

Although many of your Brothers are not here,

To say their last farewell,

I am here to say my last Good-bye,

Alas, my Brother, sleep well!

~KB

WB Ken Baril was born in New Haven, CT. and moved to the Cincinnati area in 1999. He is a three time Master of his lodge, Temple Lodge No. 16. AF & AM, 1982-1983-1995, located in Cheshire, CT. While living in Connecticut and prior to his moving to Cincinnati, Ohio, Ken has been the featured speaker at many public schools and Veterans organizations. Ken is a published author who has written a book focusing on members of the Masonic Fraternity who have been recipients of our nation’s highest award for bravery, the prestigious Medal of Honor called " The Medal of Honor - The Letter G in Valor". Ken has dedicated his time and effort to researching and developing various programs including, “The Medal of Honor Program,” “The Immortal Four Chaplains,” as well as many others. His programs are dedicated to the preservation of an important portion of American history, contributions, and sacrifices, in the defense of the United States, and to the memory of all those who have given their lives in the pursuit of that objective. He also writes articles for various Masonic publications. He served his country during the Korean War in the United States Air Force. He currently resides in Hudson, FL. with his wife, Marion.