Freemasonry

I've seen the group masons, and was just wondering if anyone here is in or has any experience with any masonic orders. My family had a semi-traditions a few years back, but sadly it has ended. Our ancestors fought in the crusades, and our family crest/coat of arms is hanging in our hall.

So do any of you have knowledge on the subject, or in your eyes are freemasons, templars and the like all kind of like some weird illuminati-like shit?

My father is a 32nd degree mason, he has chosen not to graduate to the final degree 33rd.
I have begun the journey to enlightenment myself, after 12 years of being interested i finally learned HOW you start the journey. Interestingly enough it is in the firm of one single question so simple, i have been through the masonic lodge that he is a member of. I have experienced the ritual secret handshake, i have seen the goat ceremony. The path and the history as i would learn had far far far deeper roots than i ever imagined. In my opinion they are a modern day mafia IN A SENSE. Not crime but in their massive numbers and they are very very powerful. I have become more and more greatful through the years to have been afforded the opportunity to walk the path of a mason. That is one reason i inquired about joining the mason group here on forum. Upon seeing the group name it rekindled old and happy thoughts i have of when my father and i would experience the lodge together, i also like a great deal that the forum group is geared towards helping others which happens to be but ONE of the traits of masons of the real world.