Rocky J Squirrel Presents Gems+h: The Stories That Bind Us

Tonight, at Toastmasters, I gave a speech with a title that definitely grabbed attention: “P**P.” 💩

What started as a discussion about introducing school-age children to the digestive system quickly became a broader conversation about how we handle difficult or uncomfortable topics — both with children and with each other as adults.

Using the acronym P**P, I shared a four-point approach for navigating challenging conversations:

P – Prepare
Think through the conversation before jumping into it.

O – Open Carefully
Choose words and timing thoughtfully to create trust rather than fear or embarrassment.

O – Own the Message
Whether discussing body functions, health, emotions, or other sensitive issues, people need calm and confident communication.

P – Provide a Path Forward
Offer guidance, reassurance, and constructive next steps rather than leaving confusion or discomfort behind.

While the speech used humor and the topic of the digestive system to engage the audience, the message extended well beyond childhood education. The P**P framework can also help adults approach difficult conversations with greater clarity, empathy, and purpose.

Hidden in Plain Sight: Music, Masonry, and the Silent Stamps

In solemn halls where secrets dwell,
His measured notes a timeless spell.
A patriot’s heart, both firm and true,
Breathes life into each anthem’s view.

From Shakespeare’s pen, his art takes wing,
In spoken verse he taught us sing.
By day, by night, the stage made bright,
With melodies that shaped the light.

Yet still he walks a veiled design,
No name, no face, no stated sign.
A craftsman cloaked in sound and seal,
Known best by what he would not reveal.

So gather close and lend an ear,
For truth draws near—though not quite clear.
Upon these stamps, his mark remains,
A silent song in ink and grain.

By step and sign the worthy see,
What time has kept for Masonry.

This presentation explores the intersection of music, Masonry, and material culture through the lens of postage stamps and patriotic song. By following the trail left not in signatures but in symbols, melodies, and official issues, we uncover the work of a Masonic musician whose compositions shaped both the national identity of Britain and the theatrical world of Shakespeare. Much like our own degrees, the story unfolds by stages—revealed not all at once, but to those attentive to detail, proportion, and design—where even the smallest stamp may carry a harmony centuries in the making.

Yesterday afternoon, I had the privilege of attending a truly meaningful Masonic event—the presentation of a 60-Year Service Award, presented by Past Grand Master Richard Dickersheid.

This special occasion brought together Oxford Lodge, Jefferson Lodge (Middletown), and my own lodge, Washington Lodge (Hamilton) in recognition of an extraordinary milestone. The award was presented to Past Master Butch Foster's father, honoring not only his decades of dedication to the Craft, but also a legacy that has clearly inspired the next couple of generations—something I deeply admire and respect.

Following the presentation, I was grateful for the opportunity to enjoy fellowship with Past Grand Master Rick Dickersheid, Worshipful Master Kenny Craft, and Past Master Butch Foster at Reily’s Pizza, continuing the evening with good conversation and brotherhood.

Yesterday, I had the privilege of taking part in the City of Montgomery’s 250th commemoration of the death of General Richard Montgomery, who was killed at the Battle of Quebec on December 31, 1775. Montgomery—an American Revolutionary War hero and a Freemason—played a pivotal role in the early fight for independence.

The Sons of the American Revolution, Cincinnati Chapter, was joined by several sister chapters for this meaningful observance, which featured a color guard and a compelling appearance by “General George Washington.” I was grateful to remain for Washington’s remarks before departing for a previously scheduled Masonic event.

As Freemasons, we are reminded that the principles Montgomery lived and died for—duty, sacrifice, and devotion to liberty—remain central to our obligations today.

I recently had the honor of presenting a revised version of “Trains, Tracks & the Brotherhood That Built Them” for Eastern Star Lodge #55 in Franklin, Ohio. Originally created for a High Twelve Club, the updated presentation explored the intersection of railroads, industry, and Masonic values, incorporating additional Masonic figures such as Henry Ford and John Molson, and highlighting how Masonic principles have influenced both industry and innovation.

I’m always grateful for opportunities like this to share Masonic education. If you are interested in booking a Masonic education presentation or event, please contact me or visit www.rockyjsquirrel.com

During the annual 2nd Masonic District's Lodge Education Officer Training hosted by the Hamilton Masonic Temple each of us was asked to give an impromptu talk based on a Mystery Item and we had to tie it to masonry. I ended up with a clipboard. From that I crafted the following short speech---The L.E.O.'s Secret Weapon: The Clipboard That Teaches.