system
Given the following post, respond as if you're commenting on Reddit:
human
ELI5: What are Freemasons, what do they actually do, and why are they so proud of being Freemasons?

I've googled it and I still can't seem to grasp what it is they actually do and why people who are a part of it are so proud.
gpt
Freemason here... It's primarily a social club. There is a ton of charity work and fund raising.  A lot of people seem to think our lodge meetings consist of how we're going to take over the world, bit it's really just us voting to pay the bills, with some history lessons thrown in.  The pride comes from doing something to benefit your community without expecting anything in return. 

A few answers to common questions:  

• There is a secret handshake 

• We do not wear robes, but we do have white aprons we wear during lodge

• There are annual dues just like any other club

• There are only 3 degrees in Masonry.  When you hear people talk about 33° Freemasons, they are referring to the Scottish Rite, which is a subset. 


Edit:  Tons of questions about how to join. Look up your local lodge online. The secretary should be listed with contact info.  Give him a call/email and ask to meet some of the brothers and if you can check out the lodge.  Most have a monthly dinner that you can attend to meet people. Just won't be able to actually attend lodge until you're a member.