Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?

“Bucky”, was born Montgomery in Sacramento, California, early to mid 70’s. Bucky is my older brother by 18 days shy of two years. He grew up in typical “royal” fashion and really was quite above average in smarts, athleticism, charm, and brightness. A toe-head like me, we galivanted and wandered through Sacramento and most of California, all while growing up inseparable. He was my best friend, comrade, explorer, confidante, consultant (independent contractor), and my favorite family member; minus the dogs (my preferred company).

Bucky was exceptional in everything he put his heart into. He saved my life on countless occasions, chiefly from my sister’s (Coco, see Here I Go Again Blog) constant attacks. He shielded and endured many and much abuse, while thwarting evil’s plans for my demise. Saved me from three rabid Doberman pinscher’s (not fluffy) in Texas, not-to-mention, snake’s, planes, and our mother (well, you know the rest of that catchy phrase, “Jackson”). I guess, I took that for granted. Thinking he would always be around to protect me and be my wiser guardian.

Headquarters consisted of a galactic bedroom (millennium falcon suspended from the ceiling) and bedding provided by Star Wars themed everything. Bucky, meant for emperor status traded up and was a sky-walker now, Jedi trained. And we’re off to save the universe and discover new planetary systems this very day, in our own “encapsulated space” of a domain. Our tractor beams set to otherworldly coordinates and stratospheric dimensions. That’s code for we can hideout in his closet (space) to escape the grown-ups. There’s a light that a chain dangles from to turn on; I cannot reach, for I am three feet strong.

We can use this secretly discovered flashlight if need be (don’t “mess” with the wrought iron looking box of unfathomable unmentionables); I can barely pick it up, it’s so heavy. One of those police flashlights, that we’ll use as a light saber, or/also work as fending off an intruder, make-believe beast, or a hideous witch, or just Coco (our wicked full cold blooded older sister) meandering about. Hopefully none of that in Bucky’s, safe-haven, spell protected, enchanting, Narnia feeling, closet. Oops, tripped over a shoe!

“Let, Bucky tell the story”, an avid reader, eccentric storyteller, and the extraordinaire of all things mysterious and wonderful! He would impersonate and live action reenact the characters from The Hobbit and Lord of The Rings, by J.R.R. Tolkien and countless others over these many moons. His imagination took a flight with the Concordes, Juan Valdez, and magic carpet rides with famous mystics; that spanned the globe in 180 minutes, new no bounds and we went on a plethora of explorations and excursions through nebulas of magnanimous child-filled creations.

I crossed him by accident; glad nothing intentional. Still, no one should “cross”, Montgomery; Monte for short, without a very valid reason of sorts. Completely unintentional; still uprooted and transplanted us to Folsom.

This meant, without my involvement or understanding, my brother wouldn’t be able to graduate with his class. Not able to walk down and with, that famous graduation line, his childhood friends, teachers and mentors, villain’s and peers, from the prestigious Jesuit High School.

Our best-friend situation took a turn for the worse, and my brother’s love and adoration turned into a curse. He blamed me for my short-comings and started making fun of me. Knocked me down and bullied me on many an occasion. Just like all the others, he had protected me from. We became, “on the outs,” and never got better.

I idolized Monte and wanted to be just like him. I played hours and then years of basketball, and video games (street fighter (influencing men’s apparel and fashion sense, since), Mario bros, and anything Nintendo) just so I could; keep up with him, spend time with him, and have his attention. He treated me like the plague and couldn’t wait to be away from me. I spent years chasing after him, in hopes to have my brother once more. Only to have the door slammed shut in my face, every time, I implored. Oh, and he gave me an F.Y. (offensive exclamation) for the road.

Our Gram aptly named Monte; Bucky, due to his “bucking like a wild mule” when trying to pick him up, as a toddler. Fiercely independent, even as a “tyke”. Our father had a multitude of nicknames for my brother, “Lil’ Slugger”, being one of them. Our mother called him: Mr. Perfect, Brother, and Son. He was her golden boy and favorite child, bar none.

Monte was a “King” of the people; meaning, he was King, and I was “the people”. As long as everyone “knows their place”, we can proceed forward. His grace extended in grand proportions, if he deems necessary or worth valor. Like our mother, the queen of distorts; his only major concern noteworthy is, how one “looks”. Vanity (dominant gene) runs strong in this blood line.

Later the queen declared, “your brother is entitled, egotistical, and embarrassed of us.” Montgomery had fallen from his queen’s grace. Mumsy had disapproved and it looked grave. “Oh, how the mighty fall”. Bucky plunged below, from his high bronze and marble pedestal, into the sunken depths below the abyss called depression.

Monte wasn’t actually treated well at home. He dove into the arts, music, education, and sports as his way to escape the dungeon of doom, called “home”. Or as he liked to emulate an albino from Princess Bride (all-time fav and a classic movie), “the pit of despair”. He had impersonated voices and musicians, like no other. Also, a brilliant artist of the whimsical, ethereal, futuristic, and abstract art. It was planned; he’d be a wealthy, well-traveled, well-versed, famous, educated, land owning, mogul, and architect.

An estate that stood out from all the others. Expansive lands he could painstakingly pine and design over every detail. Garden ponds and pools to drool upon. Grounds and water gardens to gaze and feel inspired, while walking about fully admired. I’m sure an exquisite chateau nestled on a hill, with views only God could create. The water nearby, a lake will do; but the ocean better suited, will suffice. A moat is nice!

Designed to become a Lord of an English manor, with grounds and estate befitting a nobleman, an Earl or better yet, a Duke. We were kept from knowing about our heritage and lineage, mainly due to matrimonial afflictions, this country, family politics, and secret amnesia from the far away past. Stuffed into a giant trunk, metal chains and locks to ensure; no one ever opens, because it’s a “bust”!

He wore his education as a shield, like armor on a knight’s templar in training. Spent years studying, working, and applying every stitch of effort into higher learning. Only to have it stripped from him right before the altar. He had been betrayed and knocked for a loop; his life drastically altered. My humble opinion, all these moons later; he tried to bypass God, The Almighty, The Father.

Not his fault, nor mine; the events that shifted, like a tornado erupted and landed upon us. We were a family of arrogant hypocrites, that went to a Catholic school and denounced God; right in front of Him. With all of our infinite wisdom combined; we should have seen what was coming, that none of us could deny.

Look down your nose at the universe’s creator, snub Jesus and the saints for no good reason; see where that gets you. A one-way ticket to hell on Earth with no leave of absence or get out of jail free card. Instilled a faithless individual, but a heart of gold still beating within him.

Monte was the type of person, that brought sunshine with him. He, literally, lit up rooms. Has to have every light in the house turned on. Even during church masses, sunbeams would find him, and he would glow before every parishioner who entered God’s realm.

The English word “Mass” comes from the Latin word missa, which means to be “sent.” This Latin word is traced back to the 6th or 7th century. It describes the Catholic celebration of the Eucharist (“the Christian service, ceremony, or sacrament commemorating the Last Supper, in which bread and wine are consecrated and consumed”).

Were as I shun from the public, spectacles, and attention; Monte absorbed and shined. He could become a one-man band, all on his own, in a drop of a hat. He was highly gifted and extremely quick witted. Intelligence, determination, handsomeness, allure, panache, and ambition; he received in spades.

It’s not like we were anything close to Socrates, Aristotle, or Plato. No one was researching Siddhartha, who teleported from one side of the Ganges; to the other. Sure, would have been useful! Enlightenment; consisted of getting by to the point of being just a hair better than everyone else on the test. Mainly, barely making it, but appearing supreme and usually obtained above one’s means. The almighty grade is what mattered and how those transcripts “look”, pertaining to an elite college.

“We plan, God laughs,” originates from an old Yiddish proverb and God definitely had plans for Monte and me, except we weren’t laughing. Actually, I was deemed to be a writer and my brother to be the illustrator. The plans of mice and children did exist. My Gram had claimed, I was a “black sheep”, but after my brother’s response regarding moving and enrolling into a publicly funded educational facility; I was now the scapegoat. I surely wish humans didn’t refer too other humans as livestock or pets in an adverse way. At least goat (greatest of all times) has a different meaning now and a badge, I wear with honors.

Of course, no education would be complete, without a strong stance on learning history. We’ll start with the Jesuits and their origins. We are headed to Rome, 481 years ago (give or take a few). The Society of Jesus formed in 1540. Founded by Ignatius of Loyola and six companions with the approval of Pope Paul III.

The opening lines of the founding document declared that the society was founded for “whoever desires to serve as a soldier of God, to strive especially for the defence and propagation of the faith, and for the progress of souls in Christian life and doctrine”.

Saint Ignatius had a nobleman and military background. In 1534, “Ignatius and six other young men, including Francis Xavier (I’m getting an X-Men vibe) and Peter Faber, gathered and professed vows of poverty, chastity, and later obedience, including a special vow of obedience to the pope.”

“In the vision of our founder, we seek to “find God in all things.” “We dedicate ourselves to the “greater glory of God” and the good of all humanity.” “And we do so gratefully in collaboration with others who share our values, including laypersons.” “They have become part of the “we,” the extended Jesuit family.”

“Moreover, he should show himself ready to reconcile the estranged (ironically, a term my brother referred us too, ended up being my description and job title), compassionately assist and serve those who are in prisons or hospitals, and indeed, to perform any other works of charity, according to what will seem expedient for the glory of God and the common good.”

“It is worth noting, as well, that among famous Jesuits are John Carroll, a cousin of Charles Carroll, who signed the U.S. Declaration of Independence; John Courtney Murray, who authored most of the Declaration on Religious Liberty (Dignitatis humanae) of Vatican II; and Pope Francis I (formerly Cardinal Bergoglio).” Even, Joanna of Austria, Princess of Portugal, documented to have taken the order’s vows under the name Mateo Sánchez.

As we munch on animal crackers reading along, I would be remiss if I didn’t include C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien to this mix. Both, very well-known English writers that have been influencing generations with their works and our very first books absorbed; mentally, spiritually, and metaphysically. “The two young professors, once members of a literary group in Oxford, have introduced to the public the fantastic worlds of Narnia and Middle-earth”. In fact, they had a renowned friendship!

“Allegedly, the source of Lewis’s conversion to Christianity”. “The work of Tolkien and Lewis is now both classic and mainstream; having been brought to life many times over in animated and feature film versions,” and here with us today sitting on that pile of clothes, wedged in the corner of the closet.

“Even freemasonic symbolism can be found throughout the stories as is the case with The Doors of Durin (or my brother’s bedroom closet) portrayed in The Fellowship of the Ring”. “Such religious influences are exemplified in the similarities between the Catholic Mary, “Our Lady”, and character Galadriel, also known as “Lady of the Galadhrim” or “Lady of Light”.”

“In the same instance, Galadriel bestowed cloaks of invisibility to hero Hobbits Frodo and Sam as a gift in order to protect them against the sight of unfriendly eyes”. “Similarly, there is a Catholic belief that professes one may be “preserved from eternal fire” by using the brown scapular of the Virgin Mary”. “Whoever dies wearing a scapula, shall not suffer”. “The Scapular is a Prayer; Mary’s Motherhood is not limited to Catholics; it is extended to All”. “Many miracles of conversion have been obtained through the devout wearing of the Scapular”. “The Scapular is a great missionary Sacramental”.

“Tolkien, acted much like a regular Jesuit master in offering spiritual exercises to his disciples”. “He proposed an imaginary framework meant to help us experience powerful and profound emotions resulting in a commitment of our entire being to ponder the dominant values of Middle-earth”.

Pertaining to The Lion, in The Lion Witch and The Wardrobe; “The most important character in this realm is Aslan, a talking lion that is described as the King of Beasts and son of the Emperor-Over-the-Sea”. “Depicted as a protector of the children, Aslan was conceived as an alternative version of Christ,” or was he?

“Despite the fact that the stories have been implicated with witchcraft and medieval astrology (banned as fortunetelling, treasonous, and out-lawed, resulted in various demented measures and unnatural deaths), Lewis himself was proud to utilize pagan (deemed devil worshipping and worship of false idols, resulting in more sin) elements in order to introduce Christianity.”

“Lewis himself believed that pagan mythology could act as a preparation for Christianity, both in history and in the imaginative life of an individual, and even suggested that modern man was in such a lamentable state that perhaps it was necessary “first to make people good pagans, and after that to make them Christians.” ~ Wikipedia

“Catholic beliefs are a syncretistic mix of Christianity and pagan elements, namely Babylonian demonism and Chaldean sun worship”. “In fact, the association of the lion with the words “beast” and “emperor-over-the sea” may have a meaning complete opposite to Christ, which is found in the last book of the Bible”.

The Beast out of the Sea …. (From the Estates Theatre (heavenly exquisite), Prague; queue the dramatic overture to Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” orchestra).

“The dragon stood on the shore of the sea. And I saw a beast coming out of the sea. It had ten horns and seven heads, with ten crowns on its horns, and on each head a blasphemous name. The beast I saw resembled a leopard but had feet like those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion. The dragon gave the beast his power and his throne and great authority. One of the heads of the beast seemed to have had a fatal wound, but the fatal wound had been healed. The whole world was filled with wonder and followed the beast. People worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, “Who is like the beast? Who can wage war against it?” ~ Revelation 13:1-4 – NIV

“This passage was clearly understood to be speaking of Rome”. “This calls for a mind with wisdom”. “The seven heads are seven hills on which the woman sits.” ~ Revelation 17:9 “The seven hills of Rome are legendary to any aware enough of either history or geography”.

“If in fact he was a secret Catholic or even a disguised Jesuit priest as all the evidence may suggest, it’s more likely that the decision to not disclose his true identity came from his superiors”. “Perhaps, even the story about Lewis being a secret MI6 agent might have been disclosed to cover up his real masters”. Shh, I’ll never tell ….

C.S. Lewis died on November 22, 1963. “Curiously, two other preeminent people died within minutes of each other; namely the 35th President of the United States, John F. Kennedy and the English writer, Aldous Huxley”. Now, that’s a PB&J that’s hard to swallow. We need an expert navigator too quest to the kitchen and get us some water! I need something to wash the peanut butter from sticking to the roof of my mouth!

“Members of the Society of Jesus are expected to accept orders to go anywhere in the world, where they might be required to live in extreme conditions.” Build higher learning facilities and standards directed towards faith and God. Not sure how they settled on Sacramento, California, circa late eighties, early nineties.

This area, by the way, is not poverty stricken and Chasity a girl’s name. Quite the opposite, and a private education today costs on average for one student a year: anywhere in the U.S. from 11-35,000 thousand dollars. From elementary up! Not sure if bitcoin can be used to transfer credits; as of yet.

Originally used in Latin as Unus pro omnibus, omnes pro uno; meaning “All for one, and one for all!” Popularized later by “The Three Musketeers” (another fav movie); Alexandre Dumas’ novel of the same name. Also included for entertainment purposes, folklore; that the third Musketeer was the man in the iron mask or was he a long-lost brother too the king, imprisonment and eventual death, never to have his identity revealed. Subsequently, the phrase, “adopted as the unofficial (indeed, quasi-official) motto of the nation of Switzerland.”

“It’s a paraphrase of the second line of the Emerald Tablet of Hermes Trismegistos.” “The full text is as follows (Isaac Newton’s translation):” (Queue from whom the ancient bell tolls)

“Tis true without lying, certain and most true.

That which is below is like that which is above and that which is above is like that which is below to do the miracles of one only thing.

And as all things have been and arose from one by the mediation of one: so all things have their birth from this one thing by adaptation.

The Sun is its father, the moon its mother, the wind hath carried it in its belly, the earth is its nurse.

The father of all perfection in the whole world is here.

Its force or power is entire if it be converted into earth.

Separate thou the earth from the fire, the subtile from the gross sweetly with great industry.

It ascends from the earth to the heaven and again it descends to the earth and receives the force of things superior and inferior.

By this means you shall have the glory of the whole world and thereby all obscurity shall fly from you.

Its force is above all force. For it vanquishes every subtle thing and penetrates every solid thing. So was the world created.

From this are and do come admirable adaptations whereof the means (or process) is here in this.

Hence I am called Hermes Trismegist, having the three parts of the philosophy of the whole world. That which I have said of the operation of the Sun is accomplished and ended.”

We should mention, “Hermes the Thrice-Greatest”, Hermes Trismegist, is said to be a mesh of an assimilation of several mythologies or religions. “Syncretism also occurs commonly in expressions of art and culture (known as eclecticism) as well as politics (syncretic politics).” And huzzah, there you have it; Hermes, the Greek god of interpretive communication, combined with Thoth, the Egyptian god of wisdom.

The Emerald Tablet is also known as the Smaragdine Tablet or the Tabula Smaragdina. “The text of the Emerald Tablet first appears in a number of early medieval Arabic sources, the oldest of which dates to the late eighth or early ninth century.” “It was translated into Latin several times in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries.” “Medieval and early modern alchemists associated the Emerald Tablet with the creation of the philosophers’ stone and the artificial production of gold.” Now that sounds like a useful nugget!

The philosophers’ stone is a mythic alchemical substance capable of turning base metals such as mercury into silver and gold. “It is also called the “elixir of life”, useful for rejuvenation (before Botox for crow’s feet) and for achieving immortality; for many centuries, it was the most sought goal in alchemy.”

“The philosophers’ stone was the central symbol of the mystical terminology of alchemy, symbolizing perfection at its finest; enlightenment, and heavenly bliss of heavenly proportions (sacred geometry).” “Efforts to discover the philosopher’s stone were known as the Magnum Opus (“Great Work”).”

“Isaac Newton was a Jesuit Freemason, so was Galileo, Kepler, Copernicus and Ibn al-Shatir (original father time, or religious time-keeper).” Bucky is in an elite class. We know Galileo was on house arrest, for writing publications, stating the Earth orbited the Sun, but I believe his guilt lied more in the public forum of jealousy and opinion. He didn’t receive the popularity vote and was barred from any and all his previous work.

I’m not sure if it matters more; how smart a person can be, or how loquacious a person should be. Sometimes, I feel, educated persons lack a finesse in conveying their accumulated wealth of knowledge and could use a “je ne sais quoi”, approach. Leaving on a legendary note, The Galileo affair, maybe true; “after his abjuration Galileo allegedly muttered the rebellious phrase “and yet it moves” (Eppur si muove).” Let’s promenade and do-si-do on ….

Added a snippet of what Galileo wrote to Kepler: “My dear Kepler, I wish that we might laugh at the remarkable stupidity of the common herd.” Disgruntled by the stubbornness of the other philosophers and their defiance towards looking through a telescope. My, how things haven’t changed, but again affiliated to live-stock. “I just, can’t!”

I tend to find, that the answers we seek are quite simple and man-made complications are the “muddying of the waters”, sort of speak. Our species likes to differentiate and oppose, that is, what we do not understand. Much of our misunderstandings are a lack of knowledge and an inability to communicate. I sound just like my mother-in-law (the muse for Princess Leia), but she’s got Jesus on speed dial.

To be clear, The Jesuits are indeed mysterious, and rumors have swirled for eons about their orders, directive, papal missions, retreats, factions, affiliations, cults, origins, crusades, and legends. We should start at the beginning, flying to Paris France for this most festive occasion.

We’ll pick up our tour guide of choice and maybe a way distant relative through Ann Boleyn, her name Kathleen, who notably wrote the book of love. A raven red haired beauty, with ice blue eyes. Sharp as a blade, and wit to match. This Princess can speak a spell with a musical enchanting note in her voice, beckoning a listener to France, or Egypt; whatever she suggests, we will roam!

A quest of a lifetime awaits and heavenly bodies present, all in attendance. I haven’t gotten to meet her (face to face), but she’s on my list (a scroll of “living” amazing, inspiring, and Godly people, in my humble opinion) and might very well be a long-lost decedent of Mary Magdalene and Jesus. (*covers my mouth in a demure, mysterious, flirtatious, shh…*)

After we jaunt through France and the Louvre, we’ll “jet” on over to the Vatican for more good news. Miles and miles underneath marble, and gold are archives that hold quite some material goods (hidden secret truths and sacred knowledge). I’ve “caught wind”, that the blood lines of our most sacred have been tracked and documented throughout the ages. Kept sealed in a vault, airtight. An underground steel enforced fortress. You have to have a “fast pass” to enter that steel trap!

Recently, they excavated and found a bone located in an area deemed for repair and thought to be St. Peter’s (apostle and best friend to Jesus); might finally be found and not in the catacombs as one would think. Nor was he entombed with a shrine like the popes above; decked out and lined with satins, silks, and pure gold, forevermore. No, the real pearly gatekeeper, Peter, crucified on the land above. He, either alluded to the world being upside down, or he was actually placed on the cross, upside down. What would he think about today?

Francis Borgia founded, funded, and likely conceived the Jesuits. “Its constitution was approved by Francis Borgia, a member of the infamous Borgia family, also known as Borja / Borgia, Duke of Grandia, nephew of Pope Alexander VI and patron of Ignatius of Loyola.” “Francis Borgia was the main financier and architect of the gradual transformation of the Jesuits in the first order of monks as a military organization within the Catholic Church.” “He was also a promoter of adoption of the Papal Bull Regimini militantis (27 September 1540), by the very close companion of the Borgia family, Alessandro Farnese, Pope Paul III, who first granted the official status of Jesuit order”.

“Ignatius of Loyola was noticed for the first time by the young Duke of Grandia already in 1529, when he was re-arrested by the Inquisition in relation to extreme practices of religious devotion.” “Borgia saw the potential in the devotion of a military charter founded on the extremism preached by Ignatius of Loyola, and his will to establish a military order of monks.” “It was the young Borgia, who saved the life of Ignatius from the Inquisition”.

“On the death of Ignatius in 1557, Francis Borgia should have secured the appointment of a second Superior General; his ambitions were thwarted in by his archenemy Giovanni Pietro Carafa, Pope Paul IV (1555-1559)”. “Carafa had always been one of the biggest opponents of Borgia Pope Alexander VI and promptly named Diego Laynez (Jaime Lainez) as Superior General”.

“Pope Paul IV died in August of 1559 and he was succeeded by Giovanni Angelo de `Medici (Pope Pius IV)”. “In both cases, the Superior General of the Jesuits Diego Laynez aligned himself closely to the conduct of the pontiff, proving to be virtually untouchable”.

Here’s where things get, “Harry”! “When Medici Pope Pius IV tortured and murdered Benedetto Accolti the Younger and other members of the papal families in what was called a conspiracy against him, Cardinal Borgia acted and Pius IV was poisoned and killed December 9, 1565”. “A few days later, the Superior General Diego Laynez suffered the same fate.”

“Francis Borgia, 4th Duke of Gandía was born in Duchy of Gandía, Valencia, on 28 October 1510”. “His father was Juan Borgia, 3rd Duke of Gandía, the son of Giovanni Borgia, the son of Pope Alexander VI (Rodrigo Borgia).” “His mother was Juana, daughter of Alonso de Aragón, Archbishop of Zaragoza, who, in turn, was the illegitimate son of King Ferdinand II of Aragon.” “His brother, Tomás de Borja y Castro, also became a clergyman, becoming the Bishop of Málaga, and later the Archbishop of Zaragoza”. ~ Wikipedia

“The daughter of Ferdinand II was Catherine of Aragon, the wife of Henry VIII (a distant relative and ghost of Grandfather’s past)”. “Her inability to give Henry a male heir instead caused him to give birth to the “Church of England” when his request for the marriage to be annulled was denied by Pope Clement VII”. “She was pushed aside (kept locked away in a tower) in favor of Anne Boleyn but not before giving birth to daughter Mary”.

“The greatest thing Henry ever created was Edward VI”. “Along with Oliver Cromwell, they were perhaps the only true Protestants ever to hold power anywhere in the world”. “Consequently, Edward was murdered before reaching maturity”. “He chose his cousin Lady Jane Grey over his half-sister Mary, but Mary was able to steal power in a coup”.

“She had Lady Jane murdered and then went on a bloody rampage, burning almost 300 English Protestants at the stake earning her the moniker “Bloody Mary”.” “Was this why Tolkien’s returning king hero was named “Aragorn”?” I’m seeing genetic similarities even all these years later. Anyone up for some Earl Grey tea and biscuits? I still “freak” when I hear, U2’s Sunday Bloody Sunday; I “borrowed” from my brother’s awesome “tape collection”, back in the day.

Before these tragedies befell on this sacred land called the Vatican, Rome; there’s one last story or trial we should appear on and in the same place. Starts with the bank of the Tiber River; wouldn’t want to be fishing that day. “Around January 897, Stephen VI ordered that the corpse of his predecessor Formosus be removed from its tomb and brought to the papal court for judgment.” “With the corpse propped up on a throne, a deacon was appointed to answer for the deceased pontiff”. Beyond morbid, but factual history and displayed before the masses and demonically exploited.

“Formosus was accused of transmigrating sees in violation of canon law, of perjury, and of serving as a bishop while actually a layman”. Eventually and unfathomably, the corpse was found guilty! “The body was finally interred in a graveyard for foreigners, only to be dug up once again, tied to weights, and cast into the Tiber River” (sounds like a version of Rasputin). You can see where the mob got their tactics.

“The macabre spectacle turned public opinion in Rome against Stephen.” “Formosus’ body washed up on the banks of the Tiber, and rumor said it had begun to perform miracles!” “A public uprising deposed and imprisoned Stephen”. “He was strangled in prison in July or August 897”. I apologize for that jaunt through hell, but aren’t you glad you live in this time period. What a year and by “December 897 Pope Theodore II convened a synod that annulled the Cadaver Synod, rehabilitated Formosus, and ordered that his body, which had been recovered from the Tiber, be reburied in Saint Peter’s Basilica in pontifical vestments”.

We’ll bid farewell to Kathleen and thank her for her astute insights. She took us through a crash course of higher educational learning inspired from the heavenly courts directly above us. Kathleen makes an ethereal advisor and reminds us; “be good to yourselves, take care of one another”.

I’m trying to keep up, “Brother”, wait for me! Monte is always fast, places to go, and people to see. He was the fastest kid in school and could out-run Forest, if you dare him too. He figured, the ones who couldn’t out-run their problems, were based on their lack of velocity and sheer stamina. Like a Billy goat could climb sheer cliffs and scale walls. Have we reached the cliffs of Dover? I forgot my sweater.

Too confound and make this area and time period more confusing, and disorientating; we were told our family (mom’s side) were Freemasons. Dad, apparently, objected to joining and thusly, meant my brother would not be initiated. This put a wedge between my parents, and my mother felt my brother was “owed”, connections and affiliations that would progress with him, into their futures. Mums included, of course.

“Freemasonry or Masonry refers to fraternal (dudes, only) organizations’ that trace their origins to the local guilds of stonemasons that, from the end of the 13th century, regulated the qualifications of stonemasons and their interaction with authorities and clients.” Factually, Freemasonry has been the subject of numerous conspiracy theories throughout the years. Don’t worry, we’re not going there! That’s for another lucky day, like Friday the 13th.

Freemasonry describes itself as a “beautiful system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols”. “The symbolism is mainly, but not exclusively, drawn from the tools of stonemasons; the square and compasses, the level and plumb rule, the trowel, the rough and smooth ashlars, among others.” “Moral lessons are attributed to each of these tools, although the assignment is by no means consistent.” “The meaning of the symbolism is taught and explored through ritual, and in lectures and articles by individual Masons who offer their personal insights and opinions.”

“All Freemasons begin their journey in the “craft” by being progressively “initiated”, “passed” and “raised” into the three degrees of Craft, or Blue Lodge Masonry.” “During these three rituals, the candidate is progressively taught the Masonic symbols, and entrusted with grips or tokens, signs, and words to signify to other Masons which degrees he has taken.” “The dramatic allegorical ceremonies include explanatory lectures and revolve around the construction of the Temple of Solomon!” Yup, you heard Solomon. Things that make you go, hmmm.

The earliest known American lodges were in Pennsylvania and George Washington (related) was a member of the Virginia lodge. Freemasonry went everywhere; on the 25th May 2017, Masons around the world celebrated the 300th anniversary of the fraternity. Jamaica hosted one of the regional gatherings for this celebration. “While celebrating their heritage as lodges of African-Americans, Prince Hall is open to all men regardless of race or religion.” All paved roads have a toll and take a toll; let’s continue our stroll.

“The preserved records of the Reichssicherheitshauptamt (the Reich Security Main Office) show the persecution of Freemasons during the Holocaust.” “Professor Franz Six, was responsible for “ideological” tasks, by which was meant the creation of anti-Semitic and anti-Masonic propaganda.” “While the number of victims is not accurately known, historians estimate that between 80,000 and 200,000 Freemasons were killed under the Nazi regime.” “Masonic concentration camp inmates were classified as political prisoners and wore an inverted red triangle.” The Shoah taking an estimated 6 million Jews, between 1941-45. A moment of silence and prayer.

“The small blue forget-me-not flower was first used by the Grand Lodge Zur Sonne in 1926, as a Masonic emblem at the annual convention in Bremen, Germany.” “In 1938, a forget-me-not badge, made by the same factory as the Masonic badge, was chosen for the Nazi Party’s Winterhilfswerk, the annual charity drive of the National Socialist People’s Welfare (the welfare branch of the Nazi party).” Now, that’s irony! “This coincidence enabled Freemasons to wear the forget-me-not badge as a secret sign of membership.”

“Forget-Me-Not plants symbolize true love.” “The forget-me-not flowers are a medium, “true blue,” and as the name suggests, they are given or used to decorate gifts with the hope the recipient will not forget the giver.” It also symbolizes memories of a faithful love. “Conscience doth make cowards of us all.” William Shakespeare, Hamlet, also a Jesuit; involved in an underground movement of secret Jesuit priests. Let’s leave with a moment from Romeo and Juliet’s lips:

“O serpent heart hid with a flowering face!
Did ever a dragon keep so fair a cave?
Beautiful tyrant, feind angelical, dove feather raven, wolvish-ravening lamb! Despised substance of devinest show, just opposite to what thou justly seemest – A dammed saint, an honourable villain!”

Is there a link between Freemasonry and the Knights Templar, you ask? The order claims that they have no lineage to the original Knights Templar (who would want such an open declaration?). “The only link between the Knights Templar and the Freemasons is the highest degree within the York Rite or as an Independent order.”

“Many have attempted to piece together a link between the Templars, who allegedly settled in Scotland (and fought alongside Robert the Bruce at the Battle of Bannockburn.” I would say there is definitely a link, the Masons the builders, and the Templars the financiers.

All over the globe (and maybe Mars), you can see their handy works. Glorious cathedrals that climb to the skies and reach for Heaven itself. Churches with extreme detail, and extreme methods, and otherworldly looking origins. Literature of the ages, by the sages, not ever to be released to the masses. Not-to-mention, folklore of religious artifacts; stolen, buried, and re-located. Likely hidden and submerged under an island. I’m particularly fascinated by the mention of a specific, ring …

“The Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon (Latin: Pauperes commilitones Christi Templique Salomonici), also known as the Order of Solomon’s Temple, the Knights Templar or simply the Templars, was a Catholic military order founded in 1118, headquartered on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem through 1128.” “The Templars became a favored charity throughout Christendom and grew rapidly in membership and power.” “They were prominent in Christian finance.”

“Templar knights, in their distinctive white mantles with a red cross, were amongst the most skilled fighting units of the Crusades.” “Non-combatant members of the order, who made up as much as 90% of their members, managed a large economic infrastructure throughout Christendom, developing innovative financial techniques that were an early form of banking, building its own network of nearly 1,000 commanderies and fortifications across Europe and the Holy Land, and arguably forming the world’s first multinational corporation.”

“The Templars were closely tied to the Crusades; when the Holy Land was lost, support for the order faded”. “Rumors’ about the Templars’ secret initiation ceremony (a slew of salacious accusations, as they always are) created distrust, and King Philip IV of France (deeply in debt to the order) took advantage of this distrust to destroy them and erase his debt.”

“In 1307, he had many of the order’s members in France arrested, tortured into giving false confessions, and burned at the stake”. “Pope Clement V disbanded the order in 1312 under pressure from King Philip.” “The abrupt reduction in power of a significant group in European society gave rise to speculation, legend, and legacy through the ages.”

I guess, we did go there; at dawn on Friday, 13 October 1307, King Philip IV ordered Jacques de Molay and scores of other French Templars to be simultaneously arrested. “The arrest warrant started with the words: Dieu n’est pas content, nous avons des ennemis de la foi dans le Royaume” (“God is not pleased. We have enemies of the faith in the kingdom”).”

Sentenced to be burned alive at the stake in Paris on March 18, 1314. “Jacques De Molay reportedly remained defiant to the end, asking to be tied in such a way that he could face the Notre Dame Cathedral and hold his hands together in prayer.” Meaning “Our Lady of Paris”, “referred to simply as Notre-Dame, is a medieval Catholic cathedral on the Île de la Cité in the 4th arrondissement of Paris”.

“The cathedral was consecrated to the Virgin Mary and is considered to be one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture,” and coincidently exactly where my brother wanted to continue his education.  Shockingly and horrified, I watched; “While undergoing renovation and restoration, the roof of Notre-Dame caught fire on the evening of 15 April 2019.” I instinctually knew, something wicked this way comes.

“According to legend, he called out from the flames that both Pope Clement and King Philip would soon meet him before God.” “His actual words were recorded on the parchment as follows: “Dieu sait qui a tort et a péché. Il va bientot arriver malheur à ceux qui nous ont condamnés à mort” (“God knows who is wrong and has sinned.” “Soon a calamity will occur to those who have condemned us to death”). “Pope Clement died only a month later, and King Philip died while hunting before the end of the year.”

Out of the scorching flesh burning flames that were eventually swallowed up from hell, spewed a fire breathing dragon from its hellish core. This enormous wrath seethed and spewed a blood curdling curse for all to witness and endure throughout the ages. Reminders, remain and the dragons persist. Yah, you don’t believe in curses or dragons; right? I know better!

The very fire given to us for the advancement of humanity and essentially warmth; turned against us. Blazing from countless fires started; our sacred knowledge, love of our brothers and sisters (family), our faith, our history, and actual flesh. Tell me that won’t leave a scar! Hopefully, you aren’t afraid of heights!

You probably think King Arthur and Merlin, just fictional characters and not historical figures. “Arthur is a central figure in the legends making up the Matter of Britain”. “The legendary Arthur developed as a figure of international interest largely through the popularity of Geoffrey of Monmouth’s fanciful and imaginative 12th-century Historia Regum Britanniae (History of the Kings of Britain)”.

“In some Welsh and Breton tales and poems that date from before this work, Arthur appears either as a great warrior defending Britain from human and supernatural enemies or as a magical figure of folklore, sometimes associated with the Welsh otherworld Annwn”.

“Although the themes, events and characters of the Arthurian legend varied widely from text to text, and there is no one canonical version, Geoffrey’s version of events often served as the starting point for later stories.” “Geoffrey depicted Arthur as a king of Britain who defeated the Saxons and established a vast empire.” “Many elements and incidents that are now an integral part of the Arthurian story appear in Geoffrey’s Historia, including Arthur’s father Uther Pendragon, the magician Merlin, Arthur’s wife Guinevere, the sword Excalibur, Arthur’s conception at Tintagel, his final battle against Mordred at Camlann, and final rest in Avalon”.

All I can say at this roundtable an admission; that Bucky and I have DNA traced right to the front drawbridges of England, Scotland, and Wales. I was told Merlin’s mother mortal, father an incubus, and after being baptized, got to keep his other-worldly gifts (prophecy, and shapeshifting plus levitation…see Stonehenge), minus the demon that gave inception.

“Later authors have Merlin serve as the king’s advisor and mentor until he disappears from the story after having been bewitched and forever sealed or killed by his student known as the Lady of the Lake after falling madly in love with her, leaving behind a series of prophecies foretelling the events yet to come”.

This is exactly why student/teacher relationships never work out and to sound like your mother; never fraternize where you earn your bacon. There are many clichés; don’t dip your pen, in company ink, etc. Bottom line a dangerous sport of messing with other’s emotions.

“He is popularly said to be buried in the magical forest of Brocéliande.” I packed light, so we can traipse through this mystical realm of knowledge and elaborately fabricated tales of a haunting forest looking for a wizard or enchanter of epic proportions.

As I alluded to earlier, Montgomery, was a bringer of light and a “dragon slayer”, in his own right (his early years). Had zero fear going up against evil or the devil. As time took its toll, his Achilles heel (“is a weakness in spite of overall strength, which can lead to downfall”); arrogance, and therefore a sleeping dragon “lied in wait” underneath, my brother’s glass fortress and draw bridge.

Breed and hatched from Lilith (See Garden of Eden) … “Fire dragons are large, quadrupedal reptiles with massive, leathery, bat-like wings, powerful hind legs with 3 prehensile, talon-tipped toes on each foot, a moderate-sized body with spikes running down their backs, a moderately long neck, a large head with 2 pairs of backward-facing horns as well as massive, toothy jaws, and a long, tapering tail just as long as the rest of their body.”

Coconoir, this dragon’s name, creeps slowly upon her victim, from the dark depths. She has no purpose, but to connive and twist, plot and scheme, from a deadly swamp of evil’s abyss. Her target, our unsuspecting brother. Unbeknownst, God made “other” plans!

Galloping in on a white horse, our heroine, for this event; Angelica, Angee for short, a gorgeous and courageous, American Princess! Angee’s lineage is from an American treasure and her roots have blazed folklore for generations. Her perfect blonde coif and piercing green eyes says, all business and no-time for nonsense. A lover of life, zest, quests, and a colorful personality; make her a perfect match for Montgomery and a royal wedding must commence.

This beautiful bride, draped in all white, a timeless Jørgen Bender gown for her small petite, stately frame. Made in whole silk and not that I counted, but thousands of pearls, God Willing, the same number of wedded blessings for this exquisite coupling. Her high waist is accented with a small satin black bow, adorned with a diamond star. The bodice ornamented with silver lace and draped with violet silk taffeta. Before we place her delicate and intricate designed lace veil and I hold her 8-foot train; she asked of me a special moment.

“Everything has to be perfect,” she matter-of-factly addressed. From her cleavage, a pure gold, heart-shaped locket appeared. With a small twist, a vile extended of an unknown substance. “I love your brother, with every fiber in me, and will do everything in my power to ensure our bond is forever,” Angee so poetically conveyed. She knelt down by the water and a smile with a wink, she gave in my direction. “A few drops will do,” and a blue dye looking liquid immersed and sunk, into the moat, where Coconoir was waiting on ready.

All the flower girls came running, when bubbles started to emerge and percolate, from the bottom of the waters. What was murky and cloudy waters, now bubbles of aquamarine and turquoise. The sun peered through the clouds on que, and Angee said, “I’m so ready to marry my knight in shining armor.” Strike up the band, this wedding is “lit”! I gathered her train, and we walked down the aisle, into most assuredly wedded bliss.

I could gush over the flowers, food, attire, ambiance, décor, attendees, and the candles forevermore; but mainly I was happy my brother had found a soul mate. I cried, happy tears! I’ve only seen him less than a handful of times since. The last we spoke in person, over five years ago, Bucky voiced his concerns. His absence from my life a gapping black hole. Our last words (mine), “don’t underestimate me, good will always prevail.”

If you’re out there and you read this, words cannot convey how much I miss you! I will always love you, here and now, tomorrow and forever, till the end of time and time no longer exists. In this lifetime and galaxy, and hopefully into the next …. Montgomery’s high-school and fav quote, “It’s better to burn out, than fade away.” The last bit of light leaving this day and onward into the night; I will wish upon my favorite star, just for you.

**** This is a disclaimer for anyone who needs one; this tale is a work of fire-breathing fiction. Hopefully, you take with you, what you will. When time permits, I will be adding alternate endings, so check back for another famous adventure. Thank you for your time and God speed you into your next escape; healthy, wealthy, and stealthy! ****