Daily Frameworks for 16 September 2023

Jalál, 09 ʻ’Izzat (Might), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

This body of the Hands of the Cause of God is under the direction of the Guardian of the Cause of God. He must continually urge them to strive and endeavor to the utmost of their ability to diffuse the sweet savors of God, and to guide all the peoples of the world, for it is the light of Divine Guidance that causeth all the universe to be illumined. To disregard, though it be for a moment, this absolute command which is binding upon everyone, is in no wise permitted, that the existent world may become even as the Abhá Paradise, that the surface of the earth may become heavenly, that contention and conflict amidst peoples, kindreds, nations and governments may disappear, that all the dwellers on earth may become one people and one race, that the world may become even as one home. Should differences arise, they shall be amicably and conclusively settled by the Supreme Tribunal, that shall include members from all the governments and peoples of the world. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

In which of the following situations are conflict and contention present?

Two people express different ideas on some topic during consultation.

Two people become upset and argue with one another during consultation.

Two people stop attending a weekly devotional gathering because they are not on speaking terms with each other.

Members of a team collaborating on a project keep complaining, each one saying that the others are not doing their part. ²

Google Bard Response:

Answer: All of the situations described involve conflict and contention, but to varying degrees.

• Two people expressing different ideas on some topic during consultation: This can be a sign of conflict and contention, but it is not necessarily the case. It is possible for people to express their differences of opinion in a respectful and constructive way. However, if the discussion becomes heated or personal, then it can lead to conflict and contention.
• Two people becoming upset and arguing with one another during consultation: This is a clear sign of conflict and contention. When people argue, they are not able to listen to each other or consider each other’s viewpoints. This can lead to a breakdown in communication and understanding.
• Two people stopping attending a weekly devotional gathering because they are not on speaking terms with each other: This is another clear sign of conflict and contention. When people stop interacting with each other, it is because they are unable to resolve their differences. This can lead to a breakdown in relationships and community.
• Members of a team collaborating on a project keeping complaining, each one saying that the others are not doing their part: This is a situation where conflict and contention are likely to arise. When people are not pulling their weight on a team project, it can lead to frustration and resentment. This can create a hostile and unproductive work environment.
  

It is important to note that conflict and contention are not always bad. They can sometimes be necessary for progress. However, it is important to manage conflict in a way that is respectful and constructive. This means avoiding personal attacks and focusing on the issue at hand.

In the context of the passage from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, it is clear that He is calling for a world where there is no conflict and contention. This means that people need to be able to resolve their differences in a respectful and constructive way.

It is also important to remember that conflict and contention can arise at any level of society. It can happen between individuals, groups, or even nations. However, it is possible to create a more peaceful and harmonious world, if we are willing to learn how to manage conflict in a constructive way.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Will and Testament of ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. 1944. Reprint, Wilmette, Ill: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1971, 13. https://archive.org/details/willandtestamentofabdulbaha/page/n11/mode/2up. ↩
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, 9. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩