Page 8 - 2023 - 2024 SMC Tabor R. Hejl_Neat

To Colorado DeMolay and the rest of the Masonic Family,

It's a surreal experience to be at this point. My DeMolay career has always been moving on to
that next position, doing bigger and better things, but now the track has ended, and it is time for me to
watch new people occupy roles I once did. It’s a bittersweet feeling leaving the State Line, after all, it's
been a major part of my life for 4 years. Though it's a big change, I am proud of the young men who
took leadership roles or heavy responsibilities in my time in the State Chapter, and I am confident in
their abilities and know they will all strive for great things.

Leaving the position of State Master Councilor has allowed me to reflect more than Representa-
tive DeMolay ever could. DeMolay has done so much for me over these years. I've grown so much as a
person, a leader, a friend, and a brother. I have had so many wonderful people support me over the
years that I couldn't mention them all. But know that you all played a helping hand in my growth and tri-
umphs, and I couldn't be more grateful.

Thomas, your ability to lead Colorado toward success fills me with confidence. As you embark
on this journey, I offer my sincerest wishes for your success in the year ahead. I have every faith that
you possess the skills and determination to achieve your goals, despite the challenges that may arise. I
am genuinely excited to see the path you carve for the state.

Jackson and Logan, thank you so much for joining me on this rollercoaster this past year. I had
an amazing time, and you both made it 10 times better. Jackson, you are warm-hearted and passionate
about so much, please continue to be yourself and inspire young men to have the same attitude. I am
also very excited to see what you will do as Deputy, and know you will do fabulous things. And Logan,
while you are not continuing in State Line, I wish you luck with everything else life has to offer. I am so
glad to have spent my State Master Councilor term with the person who brought me into this order.

Mom, I am so lucky to have someone so supportive as yourself in my life. We have no family
who is a part of the Masonic Family or was Senior DeMolay, so we went into this blind, yet you walked
with me every mile I ventured. From transportation to encouragement, you always set me up for suc-
cess, and all of this wouldn't be possible without you. Thank you so much for what you did for me and
for being Mom Hejl to the young men.

Finally, to Broomfield Chapter, my home chapter. I can still remember being initiated at the VFW
in Broomfield, not having a clue what I was getting myself into. It's wild for me to see where I came from
to where I am now. Back then I was so quiet, unconfident, and unsure, but you took me in with open
arms. You have had my back every step of the way, no matter what was thrown. I have seen this chap-
ter grow, shrink, fight to stay active, and then grow again. I am proud to be a part of this chapter, and I
cannot thank you enough for supporting me.

I know a lot of DeMolay don't read these, but for the few that do I would like to leave you with
this. Life is short and your time in DeMolay is shorter. So, take the time to enjoy what you have, while
you still have it. Almost every DeMolay I have had the pleasure of meeting agrees that it is better to try
and fail than to live with the regret of not knowing what could have been. You miss 100% of the chances
you do not take, and the clock quickly ticks toward your majority. Stop overthinking moving up in DeMo-
lay, and questioning whether you can do it or not. After all, this organization is all about growing, and
you won't be perfect, but no one is. But you will become better, and we truly mean it when we say, “You
get out of DeMolay what you put into it.” My brothers, it is time to try new things, so together let us “take
the chance, roll the dice.”

My brothers, it has been an honor, a privilege, and an absolute joy to be your State Master Councilor.

Fraternally,
Tabor Rolland Hejl
Colorado State Master Councilor 2023 - 2024
Order of DeMolay