Square and compass are the symbols of the oldest society spread around the world but in talking about Bro Nick Druce – Webmaster of Manchester City East – we should consider those tools as part of his square character.
For centuries, this brotherhood society with its deep symbolism and enigmatic rituals has captivated the minds of individuals, but now that Freemasonry is more open, it is time to tell the story of the man behind the apron.
Everyone has a story, with a different background, different hobbies, all things, those, that make The Man behind the Apron unique in a society where everyone call each other Brother.
When asked why he joined Freemasonry, he said: “I made this decision after a trip to Philadelphia, when visiting museums and landmarks I have I learned about the founding fathers of the USA and the role that Freemasonry played in setting up the country. From there on I started to read and get informed and then I joined.
I found it to be a great group of brothers who welcomed me into a whole new way of really trying to be a better me”.
For Nick it is not just this. Freemasonry for him is a way of living: “The people I have met in the Lodge have been friendly and amazing, and I found a place where great discussions can ensue without the typical landmines or religion and politics dropping in. I thoroughly enjoy going to the lodge and I enjoy every meeting immensely, as well as taking part in the rituals and ceremonies. To join a brotherhood like this is a very special thing to do because there is nothing quite like it in life. I’ve become not only part of an amazing history but what I also hope will be a very exciting future”.
Nick is the eldest of four. His is trying to convince his two young brothers to join freemasonry, but so far hasn’t had any success just yet. He loves pets and he has an 11 year old dog called Charlie who still think he’s a little puppy and with whom he spends a lot of time.
When the Masonic season ends, Nick, like everyone else loves to unwind himself stepping out of the house to engage in archery, especially when the weather warms up, or to engage in martial arts for the discipline which it brings, mutual, we could say, to Freemasonry.
Nick loves to travel the world and discover new cultures, new places, creating memories to build step by step.
We wanted to ask something different this time. Would you imagine your life outside Freemasons? “I love being a freemason as I enjoy getting to meet people from all walks of life, who I would, otherwise, never have met. I don’t mean just in Manchester or in the UK, but from all over the world. Nowadays, I think you would be hard-pressed to find a fraternity like Freemasonry, where people treat each other with absolute courtesy and respect. I have made some lifelong friendships. No, I wouldn’t imagine not being a Freemason anymore. It’s part of me, deep inside, like a tattoo”.
Story by Bro Francesco Toto