Kamál, 06 Mulk (Dominion), 180 B.E.
Arising to Serve
Quote for Reflection:
I charge you all that each one of you concentrate all the thoughts of your heart on love and unity. When a thought of war comes, oppose it by a stronger thought of peace. A thought of hatred must be destroyed by a more powerful thought of love. Thoughts of war bring destruction to all harmony, well-being, restfulness and content.
Thoughts of love are constructive of brotherhood, peace, friendship, and happiness. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 1
Question for Consideration:
If tensions arise among us, what should we immediately remember? 2
Google Gemini Response:
In the quoted passage, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá offers powerful guidance for when tensions arise: immediately focus on love and unity, actively countering negative thoughts with stronger positive ones. Here’s how to apply this message when facing conflict:
- Recognize and Acknowledge the Tension: The first step is acknowledging the tension and its presence. Trying to suppress it may only make it stronger.
- Shift Your Focus: Instead of dwelling on negativity, intentionally focus on love and unity. Remember the shared values and goals that bind the community together.
- Counter Negative Thoughts: When thoughts of war, hatred, or discord arise, actively replace them with stronger thoughts of peace, love, and understanding. Imagine the positive outcomes of unity and cooperation.
- Remember the Destructive Consequences: Reflect on the passage’s reminder that war and hatred destroy harmony, well-being, and happiness. Visualize how these emotions can impact individuals and the community.
- Embrace the Constructive Power of Love: Focus on the positive outcomes of choosing love and unity. Visualize the feelings of brotherhood, peace, friendship, and happiness that arise from these sentiments.
- Seek Constructive Communication: Instead of reacting impulsively, engage in calm and respectful communication to understand the other person’s perspective and explore solutions together.
- Practice Forgiveness and Compassion: Recognize that everyone makes mistakes and may have different experiences contributing to their actions. Choose to forgive and offer compassion even if you disagree with their behavior.
- Seek Support and Guidance: If the tension escalates or feels overwhelming, reach out to trusted individuals within the community or seek guidance from spiritual leaders or advisors.
By remembering and applying these principles, you can actively contribute to de-escalating tensions and fostering a more loving and united community. Remember, it’s a continuous process that requires individual effort and collective commitment.
It’s important to note that these are general suggestions, and the specific response to any situation might vary depending on the context and individuals involved. The most important thing is approaching the predicament with love, understanding, and a genuine desire to resolve the conflict peacefully.
Microsoft Copilot Response:
When tensions arise among us, let us immediately remember the profound wisdom shared by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: “Concentrate all the thoughts of your heart on love and unity.”
In the face of conflict, let our hearts be steadfast in promoting peace, brotherhood, and friendship.
Through love, we build bridges, mend divisions, and create a world where harmony and well-being prevail. 🌟💕
- ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Paris Talks: Addresses Given by ʻAbduʼl-Bahá in 1911. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʼí Publishing Trust, 2006, 29. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/paris-talks/2#512608651. ↩
- 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, 50. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 