Yes, all men of good will have a natural tendency to want to freely associate. It falls under the right of self-determination -- a common right shared by the founders of our country and chiseled into our founding documents.
Live with it.
And read Clement's 'bull' (signed ex cathedra) and let us know what the specific charges were that were leveled against free associations, other than the fact that they were free associations, Freemasons or otherwise.
Guess what? Free Republic is a free association. You signed your screen name as a member. Doesn't that put you in jeopardy?
There's more intrigue and excitement going around here than you will ever find in a Lodge. Welcome to the real world, 'brother.'
;>
September 11th, today. Not really a good day for this.