1 December 2021

Brethren of the Valley,

It is my honor and privilege to serve as the web designer and editor-in-chief of The Ashlar digital publication for the Scottish Rite Valley of Columbus, Georgia. I became a Scottish Rite Mason and member of the Valley of Columbus during the 2008 Fall Reunion for a fee of $150 and annual dues of $65. In that year, the Valley dramatized the 4°, 14°, 18°, 30° and 32° degrees. 

Since then, Army life has taken me to many different locations and unfortunately, I have never returned to Columbus, Georgia. Until recently, that significantly restricted my ability to be an active member or engage in Valley activities. While the coronavirus pandemic has hindered our lives in many ways, it has also enhanced it as well. That it not to say the 5 million lives lost worldwide is worth these advances, only that since we must endure the horror of it, it is only fair that we should also enjoy the advances because of it. The coronavirus pandemic has truly challenged us as a Masonic community and forced us to accept technology to survive the long strides of lockdown. As a result, the Valley went virtual, which reengaged me as an Active Member. Today, I am happy to participate virtually in various Valley activities and even more ecstatic to have the ability to serve in multiple capacities.       

As I reflect on that September day in 2008, I remember the sense of pride I experience when I first donned the black cap as a new Master of the Royal Secret. I still wear my cap with the same level of pride which is why I can find a small portion of the coronavirus pandemic to be thankful for. Thank you, Valley of Columbus, for having the courage to face a virtual world, but thank you more for being brave enough to embrace it even after the lockdown restrictions negated the necessity for it.

Always in your service!

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Cameron Davis, 32° KCCH