The 24th gauge is an instrument used by operative Masons to measure and lay out their work; but we, as Free and Accepted Masons, are taught to make use of it for more noble and glorious purposes. It being divided into 24 equal parts, is emblematical of the 24 hours of the day, which we are taught to divide into 3 equal parts; whereby are found 8 hours for the service of God and the relief of a distressed worthy brother; 8 for our usual vocations; and 8 for refreshment and sleep.

In the past few weeks I have had the privilege to speak and council with several brothers. Some at the end of their lives, some early in their marriages, and some in their middle years. I believe this working tool has something to say to all of us at whatever stage of life we find ourselves. As I mentioned last month few if any people ever come to the end of their lives and wish they had spent more time away from their families and at the office. We probably have more Brothers who work 80 hours a week rather than 40. So, I don't really think that I need to talk with too many people about spending more hours at work. It may be true that most of us don't really get our 8 hours of rest or sleep. But it is the other 8 hours that I want to mention. Eight hours for the worship of God and the relief of a distressed worthy Brother. This particular 8 hours also includes our time with our families, our visits with friends, a couple of our meals, our time in Lodge, and the time that we spend in our private devotions and public worship services. That is a lot of items to try and put into that one 8 hour segment. But it is even harder if we let the work segment increase to the point of almost wiping out this one. This is one of the reasons that we are having our meal before each Stated Communication this year so that hopefully some of the Brethren can come to the Lodge on their way from work, get a good meal, some fellowship with the Brothers, and then spend a couple of enjoyable hours in Lodge. For those who can't get to the Lodge in time for the meal we always put out some ice cream and drinks after the meeting. So my Brethren, I know that time is precious, that is why I am so thrilled that you choose to spend some of it at Alexandria-Washington.

Thanks for coming to our events last month. This month we have a couple of excellent programs, our First Friday AW - Social Event, and three degree evenings. At our first Stated Communication we have the pleasure of having our own Past Grand Master Most Worshipful Donald Maynard Robey speaking on "Washington and His Compeers". At our Second Stated Communication we will present the Community Builder's Award. Please come out and support your Lodge and enjoy the fellowship of the Brethren.

Sincerely and fraternally,

"Tom"

STATED COMMUNICATIONS - The Stated Communications of this Lodge shall be held at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial (GWMNM), Alexandria, Virginia on the second and fourth Thursday of each month except the fourth Thursdays of November and December and for the additional Stated Communications for the observance of George Washington's birthday in February, June 24th for Saint John the Baptist Day and December 27th for the installation of Officers.

CALLED COMMUNICATIONS - Usually on 1st Thursday / 4th Tuesday or as announced herein.

LODGE RITUAL SCHOOL - Will occur the 1st Wednesday or as announced herein as necessary.

YOUTH MEETINGS AT GWMNM - Alexandria-Washington Chapter, International Order of DeMolay, meets the first and third Sundays at 2:00 pm in the North Lodge Room. Bethel No. 22, International Order Jobs Daughters, meets the first and third Sundays at 6:00 pm in the North Lodge Room.