Book excerpt: Laudable Pursuit is an examination of the state of Freemasonry in the United States, and a plan of action for rejuvenating lodges in the 21st century. Based on topics raised in the 1960's by renowned Masonic author, Indiana Past Grand Master Dwight L. Smith - and then promptly ignored by the fraternity ' this new work is intended as a starting point for the future direction of Freemasonry.Written by the Knights of the North, a Masonic "think tank" of new and veteran Freemasons, and edited by Christopher L. Hodapp (bestselling author of Freemasons For Dummies), Laudable Pursuit is presented as a possible course of both progressive and traditional action for those interested in returning Freemasonry to its once noble stature in U.S. society, as well as equipping the fraternity to suit the new century. First presented as a paper before Lodge Vitruvian No.767 in Indianapolis, Indiana in 2005, Masons everywhere have found it to be a thought provoking signpost to the future.