“Dum Spiro Spero” – The Slogan Upon the Banner of Lodge Reginald Spence No 109

A Symbol of Perseverance and Hope The Latin maxim “Dum Spiro Spero,” interpreted as “Whilst I breathe, I hope,” conveys a sentiment of enduring optimism and steadfast perseverance. Proudly displayed upon the banner of Lodge Reginald Spence, this venerable phrase serves as an inspiring beacon to its members, reminding them that, so long as life endures, so too does the possibility of hope and noble achievement. This axiom, whilst seemingly simple in its expression, carries with it a weight of significance rooted in both antiquity and philosophy, particularly as it pertains to the honoured tradition of Freemasonry. The Historical Origins of “Dum Spiro Spero” 

The origins of “Dum Spiro Spero” are traceable to the classical age, where it found frequent expression within the works of Roman writers. Its enduring use has been ascribed to the celebrated orator Cicero, among others, as an expression of the unconquerable human spirit. The Romans, wise as they were in the art of life, understood that even amidst the gravest of trials, hope was the one element that could not be extinguished, so long as breath remained within the body. Thus, the phrase came to signify not merely the act of breathing, but the enduring spark of hope that sustains the soul through all manner of adversity. 

As time advanced, the maxim was adopted by many noble family and institutions throughout Europe, appearing upon coats of arms and banners as a testament to their enduring fortitude. In heraldry, it came to embody the ideals of perseverance, courage, and the unyielding nature of hope even when confronted with the most daunting challenges. 

The Meaning of “Dum Spiro Spero” within Freemasonry For Lodge Reginald Spence, a Masonic lodge of renown, the inscription of “Dum Spiro Spero” upon its banner is no mere ornamentation, but a declaration of the principles that bind its brethren together. Freemasonry, long distinguished by its devotion to self-improvement, moral virtue, and the advancement of society through the bonds of fraternity and charity, finds in this motto a perfect reflection of its core ideals. It signifies that, as long as breath remains, the pursuit of higher purposes and the elevation of character are ever possible. Masonic teachings oft centre upon the allegorical journey of life, wherein each man becomes the architect of his own destiny. 

Within this context, “Dum Spiro Spero” offers a message of hope that, no matter the obstacles one may encounter, there exists always the prospect of success and virtue, provided one perseveres with courage and fidelity. It urges each Mason to continue striving, not merely for his own betterment but for the good of all mankind, even in the face of tribulation and uncertainty. Hope in the Midst of Adversity The banner of Lodge Reginald Spence, adorned with this stirring motto, also serves as a rallying point for the brethren, inspiring unity and shared purpose. In the communal life of a lodge, where the bonds of friendship and mutual support are of paramount importance, “Dum Spiro Spero” becomes a declaration that, through hope and fraternity, any challenge can be met with confidence. It suggests that even when the path is obscure and difficulties seem insurmountable, so long as breath remains within, so too does the capacity to hope, to strive, and to triumph. Moreover, in the context of Freemasonry, this maxim speaks not only to personal perseverance, but to the fraternal duty to offer hope and solace to others. Charity, a virtue central to the Masonic creed, finds its truest expression in this act of uplifting others, especially those weighed down by misfortune. Thus, to live by the motto of “Dum Spiro Spero” is not merely to sustain one’s own hope, but to kindle the flame of hope in the hearts of others. A Motto for Our Time though centuries have passed since the adoption of this phrase, its relevance endures undiminished. In these modern times, fraught as they are with uncertainty and change, the message of “Dum Spiro Spero” offers a timeless reminder that, no matter the trials that beset us, hope is the one constant that sustains us. The brethren of Lodge Reginald Spence, faithful to the traditions of their forebears, continue to find strength in this ancient truth, knowing that through perseverance and mutual support, they may face any difficulty with fortitude and optimism. 

The banner of Lodge Reginald Spence, bearing the august motto of “Dum Spiro Spero,” speaks not only to the lodge’s esteemed history but to its enduring mission. It serves as a testament to the unshakeable conviction that, so long as life persists, there exists within each of us the capacity for hope, growth, and accomplishment. As a rallying cry for the members of the lodge, it embodies the principles of perseverance, hope, and charity that lie at the heart of the Masonic brotherhood. And so, whilst we breathe, we shall ever hope—for ourselves, for our brethren, and for the betterment of all mankind.