Daily Frameworks for 19 February 2024

Kamál, 13 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 you do when you see differences arising between yourself and others in the community? ²

Google Gemini Response:

In the passage you shared, Bahá’u’lláh offers powerful guidance for navigating differences within the community:

• Remember the Ideal: First, recall the wish for you to be “a source of all goodness” and “an example of uprightness.” This means prioritizing love, humility, and unity even when challenged.
• Seek Inspiration: Focus on the sacrifices of Bahá’u’lláh, who offered His life for humanity. This reminds you to put the community’s needs above personal pride or anger.
• Overlook Faults: 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 contribute to that atmosphere.
• Practice 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.
• Actively Engage: Don’t passively observe differences. Approach them with an open mind and a genuine desire for resolution.
  

Here are some additional tips when differences arise:

• Pause and reflect: Take a moment to calm down before reacting. What emotions are driving your response?
• Consider the other person’s perspective: Try to understand their viewpoint and the potential reasons behind their actions.
• Engage in respectful communication: Listen actively, express your feelings calmly, and avoid personal attacks.
• Seek common ground: Look for areas of agreement, even if minor. Build upon those to find solutions acceptable to both parties.
• Be willing to compromise: Show flexibility and a willingness to meet halfway if appropriate.
• Focus on solutions: Aim for outcomes that benefit both parties and the community.
• Involve others if needed: If the situation escalates, seek guidance from trusted individuals within the community.
  

Remember, resolving differences is a collaborative process. By approaching it with love, understanding, and a commitment to finding solutions that honor everyone’s perspectives, you can contribute to a more harmonious and united community.

It’s important to note that interpretations of this passage and approaches to resolving differences can vary within the Bahá’í community. Ultimately, the goal is to foster a community that reflects the ideals of love, unity, and service, where differences are seen as opportunities for growth and learning.

Microsoft Copilot Response:

When differences arise between yourself and others in the community, embrace understanding, patience, and compassion. Remember the counsel of Bahá’u’lláh: “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.”

Here are some steps to consider:

• Active Listening: Take time to listen to others’ perspectives without judgment. Understand their point of view and motivations.
• Seek Common Ground: Focus on shared values and goals. Find common ground that unites you rather than emphasizing differences.
• Empathy: Put yourself in their shoes. Understand their feelings and experiences. Compassion fosters unity.
• Open Dialogue: Engage in respectful conversations. Express your thoughts and feelings while being open to theirs.
• Forgiveness: Forgive mistakes and shortcomings. Holding grudges only perpetuates discord.
• Collaboration: Work together to find solutions. Unity is better than division.
  

Remember that unity doesn’t mean uniformity. Differences can enrich our communities when approached with love and understanding. 🌟

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed February 18, 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, 53. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩