THE CHARGE
The order is not designed to interfere with the operation of, nor to direct in any manner, the business of insurance; but rather to bring together in social and friendly relation those of us associated with the Property and Casualty Insurance Industry. Nor reference is made, nor distinction created, as to the class of companies or their modes of operation, but we are banded together to inculcate character, charity and fellowship.
Your business is a most honorable one. It possesses greater capacity for the fuller education than any other human occupation, and it is capable of developing the reasonably ideal person. It matters not how much you may know of the intricacies of your business, nor how high you may rise in its preferment; your gain is but temporary, your mission is unfulfilled, if you have failed to the achieve the cardinal elements of character. Charity is one of these cardinal elements and one which is most needed in the world of affairs. Inculcate, therefore, the spirit of charity toward your fellow men and women, especially those who may be members of the Order. To this end, it should be remembered that a personal grievance or the conventional dis like which one person may have for another, should not influence you to vote against an applicant for membership.
Fellowship is that happy attribute of the human mind which makes the individual a social creature. Cultivate fellowship and receive the spirit of equality in all members of this order.
This trinity of virtues, character, charity and fellowship, if practiced throughout your business life, will aid you in achieving the objects for which this Order was created.
Be firm in character, broad in charity and free in fellowship, and you will learn how quickly the intensive sting of competitive strife is made to vanish.