Hey there,
I want to share a story that’s deeply personal and has profoundly changed my life. It all began in a place you might not expect—the warm, inviting atmosphere of Omerta Cigar Lounge in Oklahoma City. The rich aroma of fine tobacco, the clinking of glasses, the murmur of heartfelt conversations—these weren’t just sensory details; they were the backdrop to a journey I didn’t realize I was embarking on. (You can read more about that initial experience and the power of the leaf in brotherhood in my other article here.)
From Cigars to Brotherhood
At Omerta, we weren’t just a group of guys enjoying a good smoke; we were forming unbreakable bonds. Two incredible friends, Joe Goenaga and Tim Carpenter, brought together men from all walks of life. We’d gather every Friday night around 7:00 PM, sharing stories, offering support, and sometimes even soaking up wisdom from seasoned members of the community. We affectionately called ourselves the “Omerta Masons” before we fully grasped what that truly meant.
Those nights became our sanctuary—a place where vulnerability was welcomed, and genuine connections were forged. The camaraderie was something I’d been longing for without even realizing it.
A Personal Path to Freemasonry
My journey into Freemasonry was intertwined with my wife Jana’s experiences. She’s a Shriners kid, and the Shriners were like family to her growing up. She often encouraged me, saying, “Hey, you should look into joining the Shriners!” I’d smile and nod, not fully understanding what that entailed. It wasn’t until those conversations at Omerta rekindled my curiosity that I decided to take the leap. Little did I know that becoming a Shriner meant first becoming a Master Mason.
I walked into Freemasonry without real expectations—just a desire to give back to an organization that had given so much to Jana. But as I progressed through the degrees, something shifted. I became captivated by the rituals, the symbolism, and the profound lessons embedded within them. I found a community committed to personal growth, integrity, and making a positive impact on the world.
Support in the Darkest Times
Recently, I faced one of the hardest moments of my life—my mother passed away the day before Thanksgiving. The grief was overwhelming, and navigating life without her seemed impossible. But my Masonic brothers were there for me in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
We held my mother’s funeral at a Masonic Lodge, and to my astonishment, about 70% of those attending were my brothers, many of whom had never even met her. Their presence wasn’t just a gesture; it was a profound act of love and solidarity. They stood by my side, offering strength when I had none left to give. In that moment, I truly understood the depth of the brotherhood I’d become a part of.
Growing as a Leader and a Man
Through Freemasonry, I’ve developed skills that extend far beyond the lodge. Serving as Junior Warden for Mustang Lodge #407, writing and delivering educational lessons, and taking on roles in various Masonic bodies have all contributed to my personal and professional growth. The leadership abilities I’ve honed have positively impacted my day-to-day work, helping me tackle challenges with confidence and poise.
Even when life’s demands stretch me thin and my “cable tow” feels tight, I know I can rely on my brothers to support me. Together, we make the seemingly impossible not just possible, but manageable.
Making a Difference in the Community
Being a part of Freemasonry isn’t just about personal growth; it’s about making a tangible difference. I’ve had the honor of participating in charitable activities, supporting local initiatives, and contributing to causes that truly matter. It’s fulfilling to see how our collective efforts create positive ripples throughout the community.
An Open Invitation
If my story resonates with you—if you’re seeking connection, personal growth, or a way to contribute to something greater—I invite you to join us. We’re still gathering at Omerta Cigar Co. in Oklahoma City around 7:00 PM on Fridays. There’s always an open seat, a welcoming group of guys, and plenty of good conversation.
If Fridays don’t fit your schedule, we’d love to have you at Mustang Masonic Lodge #407 on the 1st or 3rd Thursday of the month for dinner. It’s another great opportunity to ask questions, meet some fantastic people, and see what this brotherhood is all about.
Save the Date: Grandmaster’s Evening of Fellowship
I’m also excited to share that on February 28th, 2025, there’s a special event happening at the India Shrine Center in Oklahoma City—the Grandmaster’s Evening of Fellowship. It’s from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM and is open to all Masons and those interested in learning more about Freemasonry. This event is a fantastic opportunity to meet a broader community of brothers and get a glimpse into what we’re all about.
Final Thoughts
As Helen Keller once said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” This journey has shown me the profound truth of those words. Freemasonry has been more than just an organization for me—it’s been a transformative experience that continues to shape who I am.
Life is richer when shared with those who uplift and inspire you. If you’re curious or just looking for a place where you belong, perhaps this is the path for you.
Feel free to check out my other article where I delve deeper into my journey and the power of the leaf in brotherhood. You can read it here.
Stay well, and I hope to see you soon.
Warm regards,
