Daily Frameworks for 10 September 2023

Jamál, 03 ʻ’Izzat (Might), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Consort with all men, O people of Bahá, in a spirit of friendliness and fellowship. If ye be aware of a certain truth, if ye possess a jewel, of which others are deprived, share it with them in a language of utmost kindliness and goodwill. If it be accepted, if it fulfill its purpose, your object is attained. If anyone should refuse it, leave him unto himself, and beseech God to guide him. Beware lest ye deal unkindly with him. A kindly tongue is the lodestone of the hearts of men. It is the bread of the spirit, it clotheth the words with meaning, it is the fountain of the light of wisdom and understanding. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

How can a kindly tongue be described? ²

Google Bard Response:

In light of the quote by Bahá’u’lláh, a kindly tongue can be described as follows:

• It is a tongue that is used to speak with kindness, compassion, and understanding.
• It is a tongue that is used to build up others, not tear them down.
• It is a tongue that is used to promote peace and harmony, not conflict and division.
• It is a tongue that is used to share knowledge and wisdom, not ignorance and prejudice.
• It is a tongue that is used to comfort the downtrodden and uplift the discouraged.
• It is a tongue that is used to speak the truth in love, not to hurt or offend.
  

A kindly tongue is a powerful tool that can be used to create a more loving and compassionate world. When we use our tongues kindly, we can help to heal the divisions in our societies and build bridges between people of different cultures and backgrounds. We can also help to create a more peaceful and just world for all.

Here are some specific ways to use a kindly tongue:

• Be mindful of your words. Choose your words carefully and speak with intention.
• Be respectful of others, even if you disagree with them.
• Avoid name-calling, insults, and other forms of verbal abuse.
• Be willing to listen to others and learn from them.
• Be generous with your compliments and encouragement.
• Be forgiving of others’ mistakes.
• Be an advocate for peace and understanding.
  

When we use our tongues kindly, we can make the world a better place.

Question for Consideration:

What effect does a kindly tongue have on words?

Google Bard Response:

In light of the quote from Bahá’u’lláh, a kindly tongue has a number of positive effects on words. It can:

• Make words more meaningful. When we speak kindly, our words are more likely to be heard and understood. They also have a greater impact on the listener, as they are perceived as being more sincere and genuine.
• Attract people to us. When we speak kindly, we create a sense of warmth and goodwill around us. People are drawn to those who are kind and compassionate, and they are more likely to listen to what we have to say.
• Open hearts and minds. Kind words can soften even the hardest of hearts. They can help to break down barriers and build bridges between people.
• Promote understanding and cooperation. When we speak kindly, we create a more open and positive atmosphere. This makes it easier for people to communicate with each other and to find common ground.
• Inspire others to be kind. When we speak kindly, we set an example for others to follow. We show them that it is possible to communicate with kindness and compassion, even in difficult situations.
  

The quote from Bahá’u’lláh reminds us that words are powerful tools. They can be used to build up or tear down, to heal or harm. When we choose to speak kindly, we are using our words for good. We are helping to create a more peaceful and loving world.

Here are some specific examples of how a kindly tongue can be used to have a positive impact:

• A teacher who speaks kindly to her students can create a more positive and productive learning environment.
• A parent who speaks kindly to their child can help to build a strong and loving relationship.
• A friend who speaks kindly to another friend can offer comfort and support in times of need.
• A stranger who speaks kindly to another stranger can break the ice and create a sense of connection.
  

No matter who we are or where we are, we have the power to use our words for good. By speaking kindly, we can make the world a better place.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library, 1935. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/7#722589456. ↩
2. Ruhi Institute. Reflections on the Life of the Spirit. 4.1.2.PE May 2020. Vol. Book 1. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Institute, 2020, 7. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩