SGIG Nicholas Padilla, Jr.: My greatest accomplishments in Masonry were acknowl- edged in December 2014 when I received the Distinguished Service Award from the Grand Lodge of Maryland. It is not an award that is given away lightly, it is also an award that you may not see every year, and it was given to me because I served as the Grand Chaplain. I didn't expect it, partially because I view my role in the Grand Lodge as the chaplain to serve our brothers who were in sorrow, bereaving, or needing encourage- ment. And to help us grow spiritually, as far as knowing our Savior. So that surprised me
only because I'm not an out - front person. I like to be behind the scenes, backstage. That's how my ca- reer has always been. I'm that guy that you see behind the curtain. Not that I don't aspire to be a leader, to be upfront, or that I can't do that. But I believe in serving others. If there was the proudest moment that I felt really touched me was in 2014 when I received the Distinguished Service Award. GIG Howard T. Matthews, Jr.: That's an inspiration. If I had to put up a definition, that's it right there. Thank you for that. Is there anything that you'd like to talk about? That we didn't discuss today? Something that you want to make sure gets added to this wonderful description of your life and jour- ney.
SGIG Nicholas Padilla, Jr.: No, I think I've talked you guys to death. [Laughs]
PR Department: [Laughs]
SGIG Nicholas Padilla, Jr.: I'm honored and humbled by this opportunity. I didn't know what to say when Walt reached out to me. But I'm thankful for the opportunity that I'm even allowed to be able to share my story. I am just grateful that I can help some- one else through their journey. That is what it's all about, giving your testimony to encourage others. As we all know, even within 2022, we still have our struggles as people of color to be given the opportunity, and my hope, and my prayer, is that all of us realize that we can't give up. We need to ensure that we are available; that's the key. If you're available, the opportunity will come. But you got to make yourself known by doing your part. But thank you, you guys covered everything. I shared some per- sonal stories and tried to be transparent with you about my jour- ney, not only about my occupation career but also about my ministry and my Masonic travels.
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