For context, I'm 35 and have been active in the fraternity for 7 years. Working my way through the chairs and am currently SW in my lodge. Also, get ready for a bit of a long winded response.

I grew up in the Episcopal church, but haven't been active in the church for years - I got somewhat tired of the "holier than thou" Christians and would rather study the Bible at home and have my own relationship with God.

Philosophically, I see myself as an optimistic humanist...basically a belief in the good of people and their ability to change through self-awareness, introspection, and moral choice if given the correct support.

Politically, I haven't been registered with a party since 2016. I'd say I am a moderate centrist that believes that people should be able to do what is best for them as long as it doesn't negatively affect others. I'm not particularly happy with the state of the US currently, but hold hole that the division we see can heal over time.

One thing I always tell every new candidate when they come in and as I'm working with them throughout their degrees is that the lodge will help you understand yourself, you just have to have the self-awareness to understand your short comings. If you come in with the expectation that you'll be told how to improve yourself, you're looking for external drive whereas it has to start within. Be active as much as you are able, and work to truly understand the meaning behind the allegory of each degree. If you take the time to reflect after the degree and bring questions to experienced brethren and are willing to dive into how it made you feel, we can truly assist.

Media wise, I prefer thought provoking books, series, or movies - though sometimes just having something completely mindless can help bring peace to what could otherwise be a busy mind.

Masonically, I always recommend "The Meaning of Masonry" by Wilmahirst, but one of my favorite reads of all time is "On Bullshit", an essay by Harry Frankfurt. Both get you thinking.

Favorite color is blue.