The Association for 2011-2012 is “The Trailblazers”
Fraternal Sponsors:
- Carol L. Jones, Associate Grand Matron
Victor U. Taggart, Associate Grand Patron
Bible Verse
- I lift my eyes to the hills — where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
—Psalm 121: 1-2
Colors
- Hues of Cerulean and Sky Blue
White
Violet
Magenta
Flowers
- Yellow Rose
Garden Perennials
Woodland Greenery
Watch Words
- Tranquility
Reflection
Exuberance
Kindness
Trailblazers Association Pin
- In the stillness of the morning we begin our journey along the edge of the lake listening to the melodic tunes of a pair of loons float through the air.
Leaving the edge of the lake, we happen upon a trail which leads us past snow covered trees glistening in the early morning light.
This trail beckons us toward a mountain range, calling us to scale their peaks. The first and easiest peak is in the North, representing a year of learning.
From their, we climb South, the second leg of our journey. During this year we are responsible for guiding others through the labyrinth of human life.
Heading West, a year of preparation, we take time for an occasional glance toward the summit which keeps the goal in mind.
During these three years we must stop and reflect on the many beautiful scenes observed from each of these vantage points.
Finally, slowly, and steadily following the trail while enjoying each passing moment we reach the East. With a view that will serve as a fitting climax for this TREK.
Fun Emblems
The Loon (Associate Grand Matron’s Emblem)
Its graceful elegant look, mournful call, and its wilderness haunts, combine to create a powerful wildlife symbol. From its prehistoric evolution and mythical ancestry to its current-day precarious existence in water habitats fed by acid rain, the loon is a survivor, a creature for our time.
Just like the loon, the Order of the Eastern Star has experienced many challenges during its existence, but by working together it will continue to be a survivor.
The Greyhound (Associate Grand Patron’s Emblem)
Greyhounds have been man’s companions for a long period of time. They are mentioned in many ancient texts, including the Bible and some reports suggest the breed dates back about 4000 years. During this period they were mostly used as hunters due to their keen sight and speed, often helping the nomadic tribes of Africa, Egypt and Persia catch game to feed their people. During the middle ages Greyhounds became popular in the royal courts and used in the hunt. At one time it was a capital offense to kill a Greyhound. As time progressed the hunt gave way to the business of racing. The Greyhound then became, in many cases, a disposable commodity when no longer economically useful.
The breed also fell prone to Cancer, some say due to the pesticides used on the tracks. More recently, public outrage at the misuse of Greyhounds has caused the closing of many tracks. People, such as myself, who have adopted these retired racers, have discovered a true and loyal companion. Our Greyhound, a long time survivor, wears a racing bib containing a replica of the Eastern Star, with Massachusetts and 2011, and she is ever ready to run the good race.
In the background waves our American Flag, the symbol of the greatest Country on earth. We are proud to pledge allegiance to this banner at every meeting. This banner was with me on my journey as a young man in harms way and also on my safe return home after serving my Country in Vietnam. Her stars and stripes will enfold me, as well as many of you, on our last earthly journey.
Long may she wave.
