Daily Frameworks for 13 February 2024

Fidál, 07 Mulk (Dominion), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

IT is Our wish and desire that every one of you may become a source of all goodness unto men, and an example of uprightness to mankind. Beware lest ye prefer yourselves above your neighbors. Fix your gaze upon Him Who is the Temple of God amongst men. He, in truth, hath offered up His life as a ransom for the redemption of the world. He, verily, is the All-Bountiful, the Gracious, the Most High. If any differences arise amongst you, behold Me standing before your face, and overlook the faults of one another for My name’s sake and as a token of your love for My manifest and resplendent Cause. We love to see you at all times consorting in amity and concord within the paradise of My good-pleasure, and to inhale from your acts the fragrance of friendliness and unity, of loving-kindness and fellowship. Thus counseleth you the All-Knowing, the Faithful. We shall always be with you; if We inhale the perfume of your fellowship, Our heart will assuredly rejoice, for naught else can satisfy Us. To this beareth witness every man of true understanding. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

What should we do when we feel our passions overtaking us and find ourselves in conflict with others? ²

Google Gemini Response:

The passage you shared from Bahá’u’lláh addresses the situation you describe – when passions rise and conflict threatens. Here are some key takeaways on how to navigate such moments:

• Remember the Ideal: First, recall Bahá’u’lláh’s wish for you to become “a source of all goodness” and “an example of uprightness.” This means striving for humility, forgiveness, and unity, even when challenged.
• Reflect on the Sacrifices: Consider the example of Bahá’u’lláh, who “offered up His life” for humanity. This reminds you to put the needs of others above personal pride or anger.
• Invoke Forgiveness: When differences arise, imagine Bahá’u’lláh present and asking you to “overlook the faults of one another.” Choose forgiveness and understanding over resentment and blame.
• Seek Harmony: Aim for “amity and concord within the paradise of My good-pleasure.” Picture a peaceful, fragrant garden of unity and loving-kindness, and strive to contribute to that atmosphere.
• Prioritize Fellowship: Remember the joy Bahá’u’lláh finds in “the perfume of your fellowship.” Choose connection and understanding over the satisfaction of proving yourself right or indulging in anger.
• Seek Additional Guidance: When grappling with strong emotions, consult with “a man of true understanding.” This could be a spiritual advisor, counselor, or someone respected for their wisdom and calm demeanor.
  

Here are some additional tips for when passions rise:

• Take a step back: Pause before reacting. Breathe deeply and allow time to calm down before engaging in the situation.
• Consider the bigger picture: Consider long-term consequences of your actions. Will anger or conflict serve the greater good?
• Emphasize communication: Express your feelings and needs assertively but respectfully. Listen actively to the other person’s perspective.
• Seek common ground: Look for areas of agreement, even if minor. Build upon those to find solutions acceptable to both parties.
• Practice empathy: Try to understand where the other person is coming from and what might be driving their behavior.
• Remember, communication is an ongoing process: Be patient and willing to revisit the issue later if needed.
  

By remembering these principles and actively cultivating a peaceful resolution, you can navigate challenging situations with grace and contribute to a more harmonious community.

Microsoft Copilot Response:

When passions surge, and conflicts arise, look within. Reflect on the words of Bahá’u’lláh, the Manifestation of God, who counsels us to be sources of goodness and exemplars of uprightness. Here are some steps to consider:

• Self-Awareness: Acknowledge your emotions and recognize when passions are overpowering reason. Understand that everyone experiences inner struggles.
• Pause and Breathe: When conflict emerges, take a moment to pause. Breathe deeply and allow yourself to regain composure.
• Empathy: Put yourself in the other person’s shoes. Seek to understand their perspective, feelings, and needs. Compassion bridges gaps.
• Listen Actively: Engage in active listening. Hear not only the words spoken but also the emotions behind them. Validate their feelings.
• Choose Love: Prioritize love over ego. Remember Bahá’u’lláh’s counsel to overlook faults for unity and the greater good.
• Seek Common Ground: Focus on shared values and common goals. Find areas of agreement and build upon them.
• Humility: Recognize that no one has all the answers. Be open to learning and growth. Humility fosters understanding.
• Communication: Express your feelings calmly and respectfully. Use “I” statements to avoid blame. Seek solutions together.
• Forgiveness: Forgive yourself and others. Holding grudges only perpetuates conflict. Release negativity and embrace healing.
• Prayer and Meditation: Turn to prayer or meditation. Seek guidance from the Divine. Inner peace radiates outward.
  

Remember, we are all travelers on this earthly journey. Let kindness, understanding, and unity guide our steps. 🌟

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed February 12, 2024. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/7#576176748. ↩
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, 50. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩