I've been a searcher and seeker all my life, and used to hear about and see some of the Masonic artifacts left behind by my great-grandad, which have been handed down to me. He progressed to the 32nd degree and was a member for most of his life. Not only do I enjoy and see the significance of esoteric studies, but I've also been searching for various organizations my ancestors participated in, with records in some groups dating back to the 1600s. I suspect the father of said G Grandfather was likely in the craft, as one of his uncles had been. I likely would have entertained the order if not for my grandparents and some of their cousins opting out before I was born. But, I've always thought freely and have taken part with some like-minded societies, and hope to search more as time allows. Rather than retire, I'm going through a career change from teaching to counseling; I see purpose in the time we have. I was close to a great-granduncle, who was a Master Mason, as he was still working hands-on on his ranch when I was young, and he lived to be 97. He modeled much of my regard for living life. Life is busy, but I hope to share and learn from any meaningful dialogue.