Matt Hurley wrote:Just a further point of the comments above.
I have different experiences from the workplace in Scotland and now currently working in England. My experiences of freemasonry in the workplace north of the border, is that it is quite open and accepted, even my management accepted it. My work in Scotland provided many opportunities to meet Brethren in the workplace, but since I have been working in the East Midlands, the "open and accepted" experiences I have seen previously, seem to be a lot more guarded. Also in England it is seen with a certain air of mockery and do I say suspicion. Not sure why there is much of a difference, but it is one that I have noticed.
I think Masons are more visible in Scottish society. Firstly, we tend not to show ourselves in public and when we do, it's without regalia. Secondly, White Tables and Ladies Nights are attended by people who are already sympathetic to our Institution. Finally, our charitable activities are only reported in our own publications.