The Tuxedo and the Trowel: Wearing the Symbol, Living the Labor
Download MP3In this episode, we reflect on the ritual and symbolic role of Masonic dress—especially the tuxedo—not as a marker of status, but as a signal of readiness, humility, and inner alignment.
The conversation invites us to examine why we wear what we wear, how discomfort can support presence, and how the most meaningful moments often come not from polished appearances, but from shared effort, learning, and care.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Masonic dress is not about impressing—it’s about intention and alignment.
- Discomfort in attire can become a tool of mental focus and symbolic presence.
- The Trowel reminds us: care isn’t always visible, but it’s always shared.
💬 Featured Quotes
“Back as you are… as you're reinvested with all of your clothing… I think it's important to kind of look at this in a lot of ways…” — [00:01:00]
“It helps me put my right frame of mind on so I can go to lodge… Now that said, the tux itself may not be the most comfortable…” — [00:01:41]
“There are going to be folks that work off of a hand-me-down suit from the Goodwill—and that’s okay too.” — [00:03:13]
“The quality of my tux, or your tux, relative to somebody else's… there's a price range for all of those things.” — [00:02:10]
🔗 Explore Related Episodes
🎧 Ep. 82 – The Trowel and the Limits of Patience
A meditation on care, discomfort, and holding space for members at different levels of development.
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🎧 Ep. 41 – Charity Starts Where?
Focuses on inward-directed charity and how symbolic tools guide compassionate behavior.
Focuses on inward-directed charity and how symbolic tools guide compassionate behavior.
🎧 Ep. 45 – Journaling Your Way to Clarity and Insight
Explores how personal reflection deepens the inner work behind outward ritual.
Explores how personal reflection deepens the inner work behind outward ritual.
Creators and Guests
Host
Brian Mattocks
Host and Founder of A Mason's Work - a podcast designed to help you use symbolism to grow. He's been working in the craft for over a decade and served as WM, trustee, and sat in every appointed chair in a lodge - at least once :D
