Before I step away for a few days of solitary reflection—away from the noise of technology—
My mind is ready to purge decades of thoughts about corruption, division, and media that thrives on lies.
Instead, I will sit around a fire with gentlemen who also look forward to this moment each year. Together we forget what waits at the edge of technology’s signal. We are men of different political views, religious beliefs, opinions, and social standings—yet for these few days, and for over 50 years, we live in peace.
We gather in celebration of freedom. The freedom to do what we choose, when we choose, and how we choose. Not as a group defined by rules, but as individuals who know that in the company of other men, there is strength.
These brothers of mine—the best the world has to offer—are woven from the fabric of camaraderie. There is nothing they would not do to support one another.
I call myself the Weather’d Soul, a name I could never have claimed without the trust, teachings, and support of these men. For the brothers who have passed, for the current members, for the young upstarts making their way, and for their sons who will one day carry this tradition forward—
I am ready to relinquish today for the chance at a few days of true peace.
