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Dear Ronaldo,
I don't want to over do it, since overdone thanks can sometimes be boring or appear to be insincere. However, in this particular case I do feel that I should one last time acknowledge the generosity and support I received not only from you, but from all members of the Lodge and from David, Glyn and Jim in particular. As I mentioned in my speech yesterday, I do not feel that I rejoined the Lodge, more like I came home again - a bit like the prodigal son and in fact deep in my heart I never once ever left the Lodge.
But now is the time to look forward to the future. Two recent brushes with death have helped me to concentrate on more important matters than trying to keep up appearances and chasing some kind of unreachable goal. Freemasonry is too important and our Lodge in particular and we must do what we can to enjoy the Brotherhood whilst giving it every succour and support!
I must congratulate everyone in Lodge Niederrhein for the remarkable way in which it has quite obviously not only survived, but gone from strength to strength. At one time it appeared a little like the poor brother to some of the other lodges in the GL of British Freemasons in Germany. Now of course it would appear to be the leading Lodge and what's more I am a member of it and indeed a Past Master! What a supreme honour!
I will continue to endeavour to be worthy of that honour and of your generosity in rehabilitating me.
I should have been in UK by now, but of course the recent problems with my health stood in the way. Consequently I shall now probably travel on Tuesday next week and am then most likely to be absent from Germany until the second half of June. This means that I will miss the Grand Lodge Communication, our own BBQ and the two meetings in June which includes the Installation of Bro. Martin. However, be fully assured that I will be with you in spirit and wish you all and Bro. Martin a most wonderful occasion and much fun and good spirits.
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