Grandfathers (back a few generations even), and father were all Masons. I, opted not when they asked (did join the BPOE - Elks, for 15 years tho - what can I say, my Dad was a joiner and it was one night out with the men). A few years ago a friend asked me if I might be interested in joining, and pointed out some of the advantages it "might" bring to my business (then).
Which is to some degree true, but is not what they as an organization is about. I mean, brothers (fraternal or otherwise) do help one another out. No?

The rules to join, or be enlisted are simple. Be an honest man, be a believer in God, believe in the humanity of man for man, and never deceive a fellow Mason. They run their own type of security check also. They don't want people joining simply for the "connections" (that by doing so) it may avail them, but to do so to better oneself and his environment (social, political, religious, family, etc).

Again, I opted not to be a candidate (even though I was a shoo in because of my heritage). Now, understand, I have had a Top Secret clearance (and they talk to your 3rd grade teacher for you to get it - just about) - but, the idea of allowing a "club" to investigate my past? Well, I'll pass.

Still, I do feel they do many possitive things. Supporting children hospitals, care for the elderly, and staying fairly apolitical in the process of things.

Those demonizing the Masons, need to look at themselves a bit closer. It's the Moose Halls we really got to worry about!