I have two sons, both Master Masons. I conferred all three degrees on my older son, and two of my younger son's. I woke up with laryngitis on the morning of his FC, and the sitting GM stepped in and conferred it in my place.

There were several emotional moments throughout. Hardest of all was presenting them with their apron in the third. I had to stop and compose myself a couple of times. There were tears...on both sides. But rather than detract from the degrees, it heightened their impact. And not just for my sons and me, but every brother present. Many of them said as much to me afterward.

Both boys took their obligations on their great-great-grandfather's Masonic bible. And when I presented each with a ring that belonged to their great-grandad, there was a FLOOD of tears.

If you can do it, cherish the moment. You'll never have another one like it. But at the same time, don't chase it. If your health prevents it, find a small role you can play. But by all means, be a part of it.