Acting rightly should not be motivated by the prospects of success, rewards, recognition, prudence, or any form of strategic advantage; rather, it should be pursued solely because it’s the righteous path, and thus, inherently the course that should be taken.

In relation to the 12th degree of the Ancient and Primitive Rite of Memphis-Misraïm (APRMM) of Freemasonry, this philosophy takes on a significant meaning. This degree highlights the essence of acting justly for its own sake, independent of any potential gains or accolades.

Freemasons in the 12th degree are taught that righteousness should not be a means to an end but an end in itself. They learn that their actions should be governed not by the anticipation of success or the fear of failure, but by the innate understanding of what’s morally right.

The 12th degree of the APRMM accentuates that one should not seek to act rightly to secure success, receive rewards, win the applause of peers, or because it is seen as a ‘smart’ move. Instead, Freemasons are encouraged to act rightly simply because it is the right thing to do. It underlines the crucial Freemasonry principle of integrity, where actions are determined by moral righteousness rather than by potential outcomes or benefits.