What's in a word

[stepnwolf]

Sometimes we carry into the 21st century from Victorian times the reticence to “call a spade a spade,” as the expression goes. Some of us pause to find the right term to refer to the BB belonging to LL recognized by the UGLE. That in itself is circuitous! In our effort not to offend we may say:

• old-line LL
  
• masculine LL
  
• male only LL
  
• unenlightened BB
  

and occasionally other terms that are somewhat condescending.

What is the protocol here? What does an abandoned child call his father/mother after reaching maturity? Sir? Ma'am? What term do you use when referring to the BB in male craft LL?

[paul]

It rather depends on the intent of the reference.

For example if it is a reference to the work of an EA then there is no difference.

If however the matter relates to Grand Lodge issues such as recognition then I find the expression "mainstream Masonry" to be useful.