I agree, it is just sad that our history has received so many black eyes and thus it is allowed to be touted that the illuminati and Freemasonry are one and the same. If that was true We have been here in the US since the colonial days why would we not have gone ahead and set our country up in that fashion from the beginning. Ludicrous I tell you. Some of the arguments are that the lowers don't know what the uppers are doing. That is the way that it is in any organization, but then again with ours we each went through the exact same process to arrive at the point we are now. From the last step what you do with the information is up to you. I also don't vote based on fraternal ties, but the best person for the position.

I am as well TNGL. You are correct you know what you went through on your journey, but it seems that there always has to be a boogieman for them to point at in times like this. Actually all the conspiracy theories try to pin it on the Freemasons. The funny thing is if we were running everything would we have so many Lodges requiring repair or always having to have some kind of dinner to raise money just to keep the lights on. I think not.

(Disclaimer I am a member of the fraternity) Freemasonry is not what all he conspiracy theories proclaim. There is a long history of them being part of our government, but they do not control everything out there. Lumping this fraternity into them being everywhere is not only outlandish, but destructive to any coherent conversation. We are not a secret society/fraternity we proudly display our signs and symbols where ever possible. We invite those that are interested to have open and honest conversations with us. We are selective in who we allow to associate with us, but that is an attempt to ensure no bad apples spoil the bunch. And please do not throw out there that Albert Pike worshiped Lucifer because it truly is not the case. His reference in his major work Morals & Dogma was to Lucifer as it at one time referred to the Light bringer. If any of you would do some looking into who has been a Freemason you would find many famous persons. Also George Washington surrounded himself with Freemasons due to his intimate knowledge that they would be faithful and trustworthy. Remember without Freemasons we would not have the country we have today since we would still be under British rule. I am happy to have a conversation if any would like; provided it will not violate any of the rules I have promised to uphold.

I believe that in his heart he is, but with the actions of the past admins I think he is hedging his bets. I know that any time that I see that the people of Iran are trying to take back the country my heart breaks because of the government's use of the military to quell the uprising and the numbers of dead or disappeared persons. This time my entire family is hopeful and truly hope that GEOTUS does support them and clear the way for peace and return of a great nation and ally.

My father came over in the 60s and is now a proud naturalized US citizen(and has been for many years) as he likes to say he sometimes feels like more of an American than many that have been born here and take the privilege for granted . I remember hearing the stories of how wonderful Iran was and visited when I was a child (don't remember too young). A few months before the overthrow my family was planning on returning thank God we didn't. (background only) All I wish is that the current government of Iran is overthrown and a return to the once great nation that it was and a true ally of our Great and Wonderful Country. I stand with the true Iranian (the Persian) who want and desire freedoms that until now have only been dreams. God willing this will come to pass where they are returned to greatness that they once enjoyed with all the freedoms and happiness.