Becoming a member

Before you even think about the process, you need to meet a few basic qualifications. From everything I’ve gathered, you must be:

• 18 years or older – No exceptions here.

• Of good character – This means no serious criminal history and a reputation for honesty.

• A believer in a God or Supreme Being – Your specific faith doesn’t matter, but belief is required.

• A resident of the area where you plan to join – You can’t join in a city you don’t live in.

These aren’t just suggestions. They’re hard requirements that have been in place for centuries.

The Famous 2B1ASK1 Rule

You’ve probably seen 2B1ASK1 online and wondered what it means. It’s simple: “To be one, ask one.”

Traditionally, you can’t be recruited. You can’t be talked into it. You have to take the first step yourself by asking a current member.

This is one of the oldest traditions, and it’s still how things work today.

But What If You Don’t Know Any Members?

Here’s the honest truth: A lot of people get stuck here. Not everyone has a family member or coworker who’s already involved.

So what do you do?

From what I’ve learned, your best options are:

1. Ask around discreetly – You’d be surprised how many people are members without ever mentioning it.

2. Complete the online membership form – Most organizations now have a formal way to reach out through their website. A membership committee member will contact you directly.

That second option is your best bet if you’re starting from zero.

What Happens After You Ask?

Once you express interest, don’t expect to be handed a membership card the next day. The process takes time, and that’s intentional.

Here’s a general timeline of what to expect:

• Initial contact – Someone from the membership committee reaches out to answer basic questions.

• Application submission – You’ll fill out formal paperwork.

• Background and character review – They’ll verify you meet the requirements.

• Waiting period – This can take weeks or months. Patience is part of the test.

• Vote – Current members vote on your acceptance.

• Ceremony – If accepted, you’ll go through a formal initiation.

Why Bother Joining?

I’ve asked myself this question a lot while researching. From everything I’ve read, people join for three main reasons:

• Community – You become part of a network of people who share values and look out for each other.

• Tradition – There’s something meaningful about participating in a centuries-old organization.

• Personal growth – The process itself pushes you to be better, more patient, and more accountable.

My Advice If You’re Serious

Here’s what I’d tell anyone genuinely considering this path:

Be patient. This isn’t Amazon Prime. The process is slow on purpose.

Be honest. If you try to hide something about your past or your character, it will come out.

Be proactive. Don’t wait for someone to recruit you. Remember 2B1ASK1 – you have to make the first move.

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you meet the requirements and you’re willing to follow the process, your journey starts today.

Find a member and ask. Or if you don’t know anyone, find the official membership form online and submit it. Someone from the Membership Committee will reach out and guide you from there.

The brotherhood has been around for hundreds of years. It’s not going anywhere. But if you want in, the door only opens when you knock.

Have questions I didn’t answer? Drop them in the comments. I’ve done the research, and I’m happy to share what i know. being part of the brotherhood is a great feelinf and an accomplishment