I SAT IN LODGE WITH YOU

By: Author Unknown

There is a saying filled with Cheer, which calls a man to fellowship,

It means as much for him to hear as lies within the brother-grip.

Nay, more! It opens wide the way to friendliness sincere and true:

There are no strangers when you say to me: "I sat in lodge with you."

When that is said, then I am known; there is no questioning or doubt;

I need not walk my path alone nor from my fellows be shut out.

These words hold all of brotherhood and help me face the world anew

There's something deep and rich and good in this: "I sat in lodge with you."

Though in far lands one needs must roam, by sea and shore and hill and plain,

Those words bring him a touch of home and lighten tasks that often seem in vain.

Men's faces are no longer strange, but seem as those he always knew

When some one brings the joyous change with his: "I sat in lodge with you."

So you, my brother, now and then have often put me in your debt,

By showing forth to other men that you your friends do not forget.

When all the world seems gray and cold and I am weary, worn and blue,

Then comes this golden thought I hold-you said: "I sat in lodge with you."

When to the last great Lodge you fare my prayer is that I may be

One of your friends who wait you there, intent your smiling face to see.

We, with the warder at the gate, will have a pleasant task to do;

We'll call, though you come soon or late: "Come in! We sat in lodge with you."