We were about three hours into the day by this time, and it was lunchtime. I suggested we get lunch; he said okay but insisted on treating me. I told him he gets to pick the place then. He chose Ted’s Hot Dogs, A good choice since it was very early Spring, sunny, and brisk and the hot dogs of summer did not yet start. Due to the pandemic, it was drive-through only, and the line was long since they did not have an official drive-through. I used the quiet time to ask him about our Lodge when he was my age. He shared fond memories of parties with bands and dancing; everyone brought their entire family. He spoke of good times and bad at Blazing Star. He encouraged me to keep pushing to get our Lodge back to the glory of those days when young men became Masons, Masons filled the seats, and all enjoyed Fellowship, Brotherhood, and the wonders of Masonry.
He reminded me that Masonry and our Brothers are worth the time and effort.
We finally got our foot-longs and fries, but he realized he had forgotten his wallet. Despite this inconvenience, we found an empty parking lot to eat and relax. We talked about various topics and mostly enjoyed each other’s company. As we finished our meals, I asked him, “What else can we do?” Initially hesitant, he asked if we could go to his house to pick up a few essential items. Without hesitation, we were on our way.