Ten Master Masons

Ten Master Masons, happy, doing fine; 

One listened to a rumor, then there were nine.

Nine Master Masons, faithful, never late; 

One didn't like the "Master," then there were eight.

Eight Master Masons, on their way to heaven; 

One joined too many clubs, then there were seven.

Seven Master Masons, life dealt some hard licks; 

One grew discouraged, then there were six.

Six Master Masons, all very much alive; 

One lost his interest, then there were five.

Five Master Masons, wishing there were more; 

Got into a great dispute, then there were four.

Four Master Masons, busy as could be; 

One didn't like the programs, then there were three.

Three Master Masons, was one of them you? 

One grew tired of all the work, then there were two.

Two Master Masons with so much to be done; 

One said "What's the use," then there was one.

One Master Mason, found a brother -- true! 

Brought him to the Lodge, then there were two.

Two Master Masons didn't find work a bore; 

Each brought another, then there were four.

Four Master Masons saved their Lodge's fate; 

By showing others kindness, then there were eight.

Eight Master Masons, loving their Lodges bright sheen; 

Talked so much about it, they soon counted sixteen.

Sixteen Master Masons, to their obligations true; 

Were pleased when their number went to thirty-two.

So we can't put our troubles at the Lodge's door; 

It's our fault for harming the Lodge we adore.

Don't fuss about the programs or the "Master" in the East; 

Keep your obligation by serving even the very least.

 -Author Unknown