What / WHo is an Odd Fellow?
Who is an Odd Fellow?
An Odd Fellow bases their thoughts and actions on healthy philosophical principles. They believe that life is a commitment to improve and elevate the character of humanity through service and example. They are humble in a way that they never boasts about themself. They know and accept their strengths and weaknesses and keep away from badmouthing people and making unreasonable allegations. They understand that certain things in life are unavoidable. They are aware of the vanity of earthly things, the frailty and inevitable decay of human life, and the fact that wealth has no power to stop the sureness of eventual death. They then ask the question, “How am I going to spend my life?”
An Odd Fellow is an advocate of FRIENDSHIP and never looks at people with prejudiced eyes or bases their judgment on outward appearances. They support the idea that all people irrespective of creed, race, color, nationality, social status, sex, rank, or station are brothers and sisters. They do not take an undue advantage of their power, or the weaknesses of those around them. They are gentle in behavior and never inflict pain. They avoid impurity in thoughts and conduct. They also know that they should respect themself by following temperance in their desires and fighting against vice of every form, keeping pure in heart and mind.
An Odd Fellow is an enactor of LOVE in a way that they feel jointly responsible for their fellowmen and prepared to give attention and help wherever and whenever help is needed. they are a person who treats others, especially the helpless and innocent, with dignity and respect. They know, and practice, the application of sympathy, sincerity, unselfishness, and generosity. They accept the fact that nothing is perfect, but believe that they have an obligation to contribute in making the world a better place to live.
An Odd Fellow is a pursuer of TRUTH and adheres to equality, justice and righteousness. They see searching for truth as searching for clarity in their life. Every time a small piece of truth is found, they will try to use it only in ways where they will be able to be true to themself and their fellowmen. Oftentimes, they think hard before they act or speak. They know that, as a human being, it is a fact that they can think. They give account to themself and know that before they start doing something, they can make the choice what to do, think it over, and consider whether the choice is the right one. The believe that making good and well-considered choices is called "behaving in a responsible way". They rely on their fellow brothers and sisters to show them truths in their lives with honesty and love, and endeavor to do the same.
Odd Fellowship Teaches
- Wise and serious truths and opens up before its members opportunities for useful service.
- The lesson of fraternity, that all are of one family and therefore brothers and sisters.
- The importance of the principle of Friendship, Love and Truth.
- The privilege and duty of individual sympathy, mutual assistance and every-day service to ones fellows.
- That humanity was intended to be one harmonious structure.
- That each individual has an important and valuable part to play in this world.
- Its members how to stand on their own feet, yet walk in step with their neighbors.
- The difference between right and wrong.
- That it is more blessed to give than to receive.
