Daily Frameworks for 28 February 2024

’Idál, 03 Ayyám-i-Há (The Days of Há), 180 B.E

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

O EMIGRANTS! The tongue I have designed for the mention of Me, defile it not with detraction. If the fire of self overcome you, remember your own faults and not the faults of My creatures, inasmuch as every one of you knoweth his own self better than he knoweth others. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

What would happen if we only spoke about people as though they were present? ²

Google Gemini Response:

If we only spoke about people as though they were present, it could lead to several positive and negative consequences, depending on the context and intention behind the communication.

Potential Benefits:

• Increased self-awareness: Knowing that someone might hear your words directly could make you more mindful of your speech and help you choose your words more carefully. This could lead to more thoughtful and honest communication in general.
• Reduced negativity: Considering the potential impact of your words on the person you’re talking about could discourage spreading rumors, gossip, or negativity in their absence. This could foster a more positive and respectful environment.
• Greater accountability: Knowing that your words could have direct consequences might make you more accountable for the truthfulness and fairness of your statements. This could lead to more honest and accurate communication.
• Enhanced empathy and understanding: Imagining the other person present and how your words might affect them could encourage kindness and compassion in your communication. This could foster stronger relationships and better conflict resolution.
  

Potential Drawbacks:

• Hindered expression: Concern about potential negativity or hurt feelings might lead to self-censorship and unwillingness to express honest opinions or concerns, especially about people close to you. This could hinder open communication and honest feedback.
• Increased self-consciousness: Knowing someone might be listening could lead to increased self-consciousness and difficulty expressing yourself freely, especially in potentially sensitive situations. This could hinder genuine and open communication.
• Loss of nuance and privacy: Applying this principle rigidly might not allow for necessary or appropriate discussions about others in their absence, such as discussing work performance, offering constructive criticism to a team member who isn’t present, or seeking advice about a personal issue involving another person. This could hinder problem-solving and conflict resolution in certain situations.
  

Overall, the impact of only speaking about people as though they were present is complex and depends mainly on how the principle is interpreted and applied. It’s important to consider both the potential benefits and drawbacks and to use your judgment to navigate communication in a way that is respectful, honest, and considerate of all parties involved.

It’s also important to remember that the quote from Bahá’u’lláh specifically addresses avoiding “detraction,” which refers to malicious gossip and negativity. Even if someone is not physically present, it is still essential to be mindful of your words and avoid saying harmful, untrue, or disrespectful things.

Ultimately, the goal is to cultivate honest and respectful communication that builds trust, understanding, and positive community relationships.

Microsoft Copilot Response:

This profound passage invites us to reflect on our words and interactions. When we speak about others as though they were present, several transformative things occur:

• Empathy Blossoms: Imagining someone’s presence encourages empathy. We consider their feelings, perspectives, and experiences. Instead of criticizing, we seek understanding.
• Kindness Prevails: When we speak as if someone is listening, we choose words carefully. Kindness becomes our default mode. We uplift rather than tear down.
• Accountability Takes Root: Acknowledging our faults first fosters humility. We recognize that everyone has struggles, and we extend grace to others.
• Unity Emerges: Speaking as though others are present bridges gaps. It connects hearts across distances, cultures, and beliefs. We become part of a shared human experience.
  

So, let us converse with the awareness that our words shape reality, and every utterance carries weight. 🌟.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed February 22, 2024. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/3#062883030. ↩
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, 54. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩