After our last ceremony, which was a Passing, our candidate had one apron changed for another. I cannot help but think, does a candidate really understand the meaning of that first apron with which he was first invested.
He is, after all 'newly admitted', and sometimes it is not long before that apron is changed for another. I discovered this poem which might be of assistance to all Masons, to remind them that when they were 'newly admitted', and invested with that first apron what its value and importance is.
The White Leather Apron
The white leather apron is more ancient by far
Than the eagles of Rome, a symbol of war,
Or the fleece of pure gold by emperors given,
A rich decoration for which many have striven.
The Garter of England, an Order most rare,
Although highly prized, cannot with it compare;
It is an emblem of innocence symbolic in white,
And purity ever brings the greatest delight;
With pure thoughts and actions how happy the life
How care-free the conscience, unclouded by strife.
No Potentate ever can upon us bestow
An honour so great as this apron doth show;
No king on his throne in his highest estate
Can give us an emblem so cherished or great;
'Tis the Badge of a Mason more noble to wear
Than the gold of a mine or the diamond most rare.
So here's to the lambskin the apron of white,
That lifts up all equals and all doth unite,
In the Order so ancient that man cannot say
When its teachings began or name its birthday.
Since its birth, nations young have gone to their tomb
And cities once great turned to ashes and gloom;
Earth's greatest achievements have long passed away
And peoples have risen and gone to decay.
Outliving all these never changing with time
Are the principles taught in our order sublime.
And now my good brother this apron's for you,
May you worthily wear it and ever he true
To the vows you have made to the lessons most grand
For these, home and country, we ever will stand.