Daily Frameworks for 13 January 2024

Jalál, 14 Sharaf (Honor), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

Praise be to God! You are living in a land of freedom. You are blessed with men of learning, men who are well versed in the comparative study of religions. You realize the need of unity and know the great harm which comes from prejudice and superstition. I ask you, is not fellowship and brotherhood preferable to enmity and hatred in society and community? The answer is self-evident. Love and fellowship are absolutely needful to win the good pleasure of God, which is the goal of all human attainment. We must be united. We must love each other. We must ever praise each other. We must bestow commendation upon all people, thus removing the discord and hatred which have caused alienation amongst men. Otherwise, the conditions of the past will continue, praising ourselves and condemning others; religious wars will have no end, and religious prejudice, the prime cause of this havoc and tribulation, will increase. This must be abandoned, and the way to do it is to investigate the reality which underlies all the religions. This underlying reality is the love of humanity. For God is one and humanity is one, and the only creed of the Prophets is love and unity. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

A conversation on the oneness of humankind may lead to a discussion about the importance of unity in one’s own community. Can you say a few words about how each of us can contribute to it? ²

Google Bard Response:

Absolutely! Building a unified community is not just a lofty ideal; it’s paved with small steps we can each take. Here are a few ways we can contribute:

Embrace open hearts and open minds:

• Seek understanding: Actively listen to different viewpoints, even those that differ from your own. Engage in respectful dialogue, seeking common ground and appreciating diverse perspectives.
• Challenge biases: Be aware of our unconscious biases and actively work to overcome them. Practice empathy and strive to see the world through others’ eyes.
• Celebrate diversity: Recognize and appreciate the richness and vibrancy that diversity brings to our communities. Embrace the unique talents, cultures, and experiences that each individual contributes.
  

Be a bridge, not a barrier:

• Reach out: Make an effort to connect with people outside your usual circle. Engage with neighbors, colleagues, and individuals from different backgrounds.
• Promote collaboration: Look for opportunities to work together on shared goals, whether volunteering for a local cause, organizing community events, or simply offering a helping hand.
• Share your gifts: Whether you have artistic talents, technical skills, or a kind heart, use your gifts to benefit the community and create a sense of shared purpose.
  

Lead by example:

• Practice kindness and compassion: Treat everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of their differences. Be a source of positive energy and encouragement.
• Speak up against prejudice and discrimination: Don’t be a silent bystander when you witness injustice or hateful speech. Speak out and advocate for equality and inclusivity.
• Live your values: Show that you believe in unity and respect for all through your actions. Your everyday choices and interactions can make a ripple effect in your community.
  

Building a unified community is a continuous journey, not a destination. By practicing these small steps and encouraging others to do the same, we can create a space where everyone feels welcome, valued, and connected. Let’s strive for a community where the oneness of humankind is not just a conversation but a lived experience.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by ʻAbduʼl-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912. Edited by Howard MacNutt. 2nd ed. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʼí Publishing Trust, 1982, 31-32. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/30#320279001. ↩
2. Ruhi Institute. Arising to Serve. 2.1.1.PE September 2020. Vol. Book 2. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Foundation, 2020, 23-24. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩