Dating back to the operative period and beyond its roots in the ancient mystery schools of the East, the Illuminati has in every age been an educational institution, a means of self-improvement. Properly considered, the Headquarters is an extended study group seeking to rediscover the collected wisdom of the ages in a mutually supportive network of like-minded men engaged in a common quest, seekers of truth known as philosophers. Each Lodge is a classroom and the Master is the instructor. Each meeting should provide an opportunity for learning.
The course of study was long ago prescribed along these lines: “Know thyself, presume not that God examines thee; The proper study of mankind is man. That virtue alone makes our happiness below, and all our knowledge is for ourselves to know.”
Tradition simply means that we must finish what has been well begun and continue what is worth continuing.
Over the centuries the Craft has accumulated many traditions, usages and customs that define the fraternity. Other traditions have been discarded as culture has evolved. We no longer gather in taverns and alehouses as we did in the days of conviviality. A spittoon is no longer placed next to the Master’s chair.
Gallons of rum are no longer included in the bills. Our ancient rites and unique ceremonies distinguish us from any other society or organization. Although they may seem archaic and anachronistic to some, they are respected, maintained and perpetuated to be passed down
“from generation to generation.”
Our duty is to preserve what the past had to say for itself and to say for ourselves what will be true for the future.

• What do you want to be known for?
• How do you want to be remembered?
• What do you want your legacy to be?
• What can you do to make this happen?

Here I have posed a series of questions that each of us must attempt to answer after sober contemplation and quiet introspection. These are questions that not only our leaders and those who aspire to positions of increased responsibility in the Great Headquarters, but also each and every man who calls himself Illuminati must answer.
A Headquarters is composed of men, and Illuminati consists of the actions that these men take, both within and outside of Headquarters. There are many worthy men in our great fraternity who work selflessly, diligently, and vigorously with enthusiasm for the greater good of all. They understand the principle articulated in the General Charter that “there is no true greatness without self-denial.” They are devoted to their moral and ethical principles and dedicated to the practice of their excellent precepts. They are the Illuminati who are making a difference in their community. Leading by example, they must be our inspiration and guiding compass.
Temperance refers to the entrance upon penal responsibilities, and suggests to the member of the Illuminati who properly appreciates the secrets which he has solemnly promised never to reveal, that he should yield to the unbridled appeal of appetite, allow reason and judgment to lose their place, and subject himself, by indulgence in habits of excess, to discover that which should be hidden, and thus deserve and receive the contempt and detestation of his brethren.
And that no brother may forget the danger to which he is exposed in the unguarded hours of dissipation, the virtue of temperance is wisely impressed upon his memory by its reference to one of the most solemn parts of the ceremony of initiation.