Daily Frameworks for 15 March 2024

Istiqlál, 15 ‘Alá’ (Loftiness), 180 B.E

Teaching Children’s Classes, Grade 1

Quote for Reflection:

Children are the most precious treasure a community can possess, for in them are the promise and guarantee of the future. They bear the seeds of the character of future society which is largely shaped by what the adults constituting the community do or fail to do with respect to children. They are a trust no community can neglect with impunity. An all-embracing love of children, the manner of treating them, the quality of the attention shown them, the spirit of adult behavior toward them—these are all among the vital aspects of the requisite attitude. Love demands discipline, the courage to accustom children to hardship, not to indulge their whims or leave them entirely to their own devices. An atmosphere needs to be maintained in which children feel that they belong to the community and share in its purpose. They must lovingly but insistently be guided to live up to Bahá’í standards, to study and teach the Cause in ways that are suited to their circumstances. — Universal House of Justice ¹

Question for Consideration:

How are children “…the most precious treasure a community can possess”? ²

Google Gemini Response:

The passage from the Universal House of Justice highlights several reasons why children are considered the most precious treasure a community can possess:

• Future Potential: Children embody the “promise and guarantee of the future.” They carry the potential to shape the character of society in the years to come.
• Malleability and Learning: Children are at a stage where they are highly receptive to learning and development. Their experiences and the values instilled in them during this crucial period will significantly impact their future contributions to society.
• Responsibility of the Community: The passage emphasizes that “the character of future society” is primarily shaped by how adults act towards children. This implies that the community has a collective responsibility to nurture and guide children in positive ways.
• Investment in the Future: Investing time, resources, and effort in the well-being and education of children is seen as an investment in the future of the community and the world as a whole.
  

Key aspects of nurturing this precious treasure:

• Love and Care: An “all-embracing love” for children is crucial. This includes providing a safe and supportive environment where they feel valued and loved.
• Discipline and Guidance: While love is essential, it should be accompanied by discipline and guidance. This involves setting boundaries, teaching them responsibility, and helping them develop strong moral character.
• Sense of Belonging: Children need to feel like they are integral members of the community. This can be fostered by involving them in age-appropriate activities and allowing them to contribute their unique perspectives.
• Spiritual Nurturing: The passage emphasizes the importance of guiding children to “live up to Bahá’í standards” and learn about the Faith in ways suitable for their age.
  

Overall, children are considered a precious treasure because they represent the potential for a brighter future. By investing in their well-being, education, and spiritual development, the community ensures a more just, peaceful, and prosperous future for all.

Here are some additional points to consider:

• This perspective emphasizes the collective responsibility of the community towards nurturing children.
• It highlights the importance of striking a balance between love and guidance.
• The approach to nurturing children should be adapted to their age and developmental stage.
  

By understanding the value children hold and taking responsibility for their upbringing, the community can empower them to become responsible and contributing members of society.

Microsoft Copilot Response:

Children are indeed priceless treasures within a community. Their significance lies in several aspects:

• Promise of the Future: Children carry the potential and promise of what society will become. Their upbringing, education, and character development directly impact the shape of the world they will inherit.
• Character Seeds: The values, ethics, and behavior instilled in children today will shape the character of tomorrow’s society. Adults play a crucial role in nurturing these seeds of character.
• Trust and Responsibility: Communities cannot afford to neglect children. They are a trust bestowed upon us, and we bear the responsibility to care for them. Neglecting this duty has consequences for the community’s well-being.
• Love and Discipline: An all-encompassing love for children is essential. However, love also demands discipline—the courage to guide them, teach them resilience, and not merely indulge their whims.
• Belonging and Purpose: Children should feel that they belong to the community. They share in its purpose and contribute to its growth. An inclusive atmosphere fosters this sense of belonging.
• Living Up to Standards: Children must be lovingly guided to uphold the standards set by their community. They should study and teach the principles that align with their circumstances.
  

In summary, children are the foundation upon which a community’s future rests, and their well-being is a collective responsibility. 🌟👧👦

1. Universal House of Justice. “Riḍván 2000 – To the Bahá’ís of the World.” Bahá’í Reference Library, April 20, 2000. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/the-universal-house-of-justice/messages/20000421_001/1#127688672. ↩
2. Ruhi Institute. Teaching Children’s Classes, Grade 1. 2.2.1.PE September 2021. Vol. Book 3. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Foundation, 2021, 3. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#CC1. ↩