The Ashlar and the Question of Growth

In a world full of disorder and limits beyond our control, why bother growing at all? This episode confronts that foundational question, exploring the symbolic Ashlar—rough and perfect—as a map for what transformation means when the external world resists it. The path of Masonic development is revealed not as control, but as choice.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Personal growth is not about fixing the world—it’s about shaping the self.
• The Rough Ashlar represents potential, not perfection.
• Choosing to grow is a sacred act of autonomy in an uncontrollable world.

💬 Featured Quotes

So in the hundred plus episodes of this podcast, I have never addressed the underlying conversation of why bother growing at all. — [00:00:00]
You have very little control over a ton of things in life. — [00:00:31]
You have no control over the way your body is going to process nutrients. — [00:00:45]
Why bother with this development thing to become a better person, all of that kind of thing? — [00:00:13]

🔗 Explore Related Episodes

• We Meet on the Level, but we are not the Same
  Recognizing where others stand isn’t condescension; it’s the gateway to real teaching, empathy, and growth.
• The Gavel and the Temptation to Settle
  Challenges the comfort-driven resistance that slows or prevents real growth.
• The Work of a Master Mason: Governing the Self First
  You cannot shape the world until you’ve learned to govern yourself—and that begins not with shame, but with care.

  Creators & Guests

  • Brian Mattocks - Host
  Click here to view the episode transcript.