arising to serve humanity

 a new story is beginning in the Dagoretti market area on the Karen side of Nairobi.  it began when i walked to the small, local grocery store to buy vegetables.  outside of the market is a shop to buy flowers.  with joy i greeted the young woman behind the table as she pruned roses.  she was immediately attracted to the joy.  after warm exchanges of courtesy she asked me if i was a Christian.  from there we have been exchanging heart to heart desires for a better world.  she is a woman who does not want to wait for people to come into the church to be saved.  she is about helping other people; she wants her community to be free of alcohol and drugs and all that is hurtful to children.  i introduced the Baha'i-inspired spiritual empowerment program for jr. youth, providing the vision for long-term investment in young souls to ultimately change the neighborhood.  then one day by surprise she announced that her cousin is the principal of st. luke's educational center in that neighborhood and that he'd like to meet with me to discuss initiating the program in his school.

i was excited beyond words, as if God had clearly answered my prayers to be able to be of service in this capacity in an area that is relatively close to where we live, but i was also very hesitant because i didn't have transport to get there -- i don't have a car to drive and i'm not willing to take a matatu alone because i feel anything can happen that will threaten my safety.  so i called the one Baha'i mother in this area and asked if she could drive me to this meeting and she took me a few days later.

after a very positive and receptive meeting about the program, we agreed with the principal, Mr. Kamau, that we would consult about the logistics and get back with him.  while driving home, my friend generously and lovingly offered that the woman who works for her could pick me up and take me every week to the school.  she explained that this could be part of her work during the week, in the spirit of being of service which is the highest expression of all work we do as Baha'is.  the woman who works for her is also a Baha'i.

that moment made me offer up the deepest praise and thanksgiving to God.  i have been longing to engage once again in a service-oriented activity at the community level here in Nairobi.  the only limitation to the program being held in the school was my transport and now it was sorted so effortlessly through the willingness of a friend whose heart feels connected in the spirit of service to offer her car.
it has been 3 weeks since that initial visit to st. luke's educational centre.  since that time, the principal and teachers have begun the study process for becoming animators of their own jr. youth groups and/or children's class teachers.  there is word that another school has found out about it and wants to be trained as well.  the kids are enthusiastic and grateful.  i have led 2 out of the 3 sessions and have heard from the principal that the kids are really happy with the program.  they are discovering that the potential for excellence lies within them and must be exercised by their own volition.  they are beginning to feel their own uniqueness in how God has created them in order to make this world a better place.  they have chosen going to a hospital as their first service activity which we will begin planning next week.  the school is abuzz with new energy and it's such a bounty to see.

i am already thinking about all of these kids as if they are my own children.  i look forward to all that lies ahead in terms of learning and growth, challenges and successes, service activities and transformation.

"The betterment of the world can be accomplished through pure and goodly deeds, through commendable and seemly conduct."  

~Baha'u'llah

the magic of love

"Happiness consists of two kinds; physical and spiritual. The physical happiness is limited; its utmost duration is one day, one month, one year. It hath no result. Spiritual happiness is eternal and unfathomable. This kind of happiness appeareth in one's soul with the love of God and suffereth one to attain to the virtues and perfections of the world of humanity. Therefore, endeavor as much as thou art able in order to illuminate the lamp of thy heart by the light of love."
 

~ Abdu'l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu'l-Baha v3, p. 673 

each day we have the capacity to be a channel of divine spirit in this life.  it depends on seeing everything that is happening with a spiritual eye, and looking at all people with the beauty of God in them.

as i settle into Nairobi i find myself having a unique experience already.  despite the diversity and long associations of different peoples living here, there is still surprise amongst the people here who are not white that i am being genuinely friendly and caring toward them.   i am able to love people simply for the sake of them being loved by God.  this love is expressed through smiling, thumbs up in appreciation for someone's deed, sharing chocolates and other things we have as a way of thanks, and a lighthearted, genuine exchange of joyful greetings (mostly in Swahili).  the world is longing for the love of God to be exchanged and received without any conditional self-interest involved.  to me, this is the magic of love..

while being stuck in traffic, or rolling up my car window to block out the black fumes coming out of tailpipes, i have been smiling at people when i connect with them in their car or on the side of the road.  as i meet guards and house cleaners, i treat them with dignity and high regard as i appreciate the work they do.  i am looking for the beauty of God in all things and creating my own reality of beauty and joy throughout the day.  it is truly like a magnet which attracts the heart of another human being.

here in Nairobi there is an overall sense of fear and lack of trust, which of course go hand in hand with one another.  i practice wisdom by keeping my purse close at all times and locking everything; i don't walk around at night or keep my car window open in the evenings as a protection from criminal attempts on my life.  but aside from being wise in my affairs, and staying out of areas that are known for crime, i feel that most people are hard-working and goodhearted, just like in South Africa, and there is no reason to hold fear so present in one's heart on a daily basis -- unless you break a traffic law and a police officer with a big gun comes up to your window and starts telling you how high the fees are for obstructing the law.. yes, that happened to us, but we didn't give in to his insinuating bribery.  we remained calm and prayerful and called a Baha'i lawyer friend (who we just met!) -- by the grace of God her son is a police officer who is a friend of this officer so he pardoned us!

love is the simple answer to the world's problems.  its replenishing fountain is the Word of God which is endowed with the creative spirit to transform our hearts, subdue our egos, and ennoble our lives.  for me it is the pulse of oneness which magically connects me to God in all circumstances, with all people, all of the time.

"When love is realized and the ideal spiritual bonds unite the hearts of men, the whole human race will be uplifted, the world will continually grow more spiritual and radiant and the happiness and tranquility of mankind be immeasurably increased. Warfare and strife will be uprooted, disagreement and dissension pass away and Universal Peace unite the nations and peoples of the world. All mankind will dwell together as one family, blend as the waves of one sea, shine as stars of one firmament and appear as fruits of the same tree. This is the happiness and felicity of humankind. This is the illumination of man, the glory eternal and life everlasting; this is the divine bestowal."

~ Abdu'l-Baha, Baha'i World Faith - Abdu'l-Baha Section, p. 229

'religious prejudices'

below is a speech addressing religious prejudice -- one of the greatest causes of war and disunity in the world.  it conveys the vital need for love and unity amongst the followers of all religions. 

this address was offered by Abdu'l-Baha in Paris in the early 1900's:

RELIGIOUS PREJUDICES

The basis of the teaching of Bahá'u'lláh is the Unity of Mankind, and His greatest desire was that love and goodwill should live in the heart of men.

As He exhorted the people to do away with strife and discord, so I wish to explain to you the principal reason of the unrest among nations. The chief cause is the misrepresentation of religion by the religious leaders and teachers. They teach their followers to believe that their own form of religion is the only one pleasing to God, and that followers of any other persuasion are condemned by the All-Loving Father and deprived of His Mercy and Grace. Hence arise among the peoples, disapproval, contempt, disputes and hatred. If these religious prejudices could be swept away, the nations would soon enjoy peace and concord.

I was once at Tiberias where the Jews have a Temple. I was staying in a house just opposite the Temple, and there I saw and heard a Rabbi speaking to his congregation of Jews, and he spoke thus:

'O Jews, you are in truth the people of God! All other races and religions are of the devil. God has created you the descendants of Abraham, and He has showered His blessings upon you. Unto you God sent Moses, Jacob and Joseph, and many other great prophets. These prophets, one and all, were of your race.

'It was for you that God broke the power of Pharaoh and caused the Red Sea to dry up; to you also He sent manna from above to be your food, and out of the stony rock did He give you water to quench your thirst. You are indeed the chosen people of God, you are above all the races of the earth! Therefore, all other races are abhorrent to God, and condemned by Him. In truth you will govern and subdue the world, and all men shall become your slaves.

'Do not profane yourselves by consorting with people who are not of your own religion, make not friends of such men.'

When the Rabbi had finished his eloquent discourse, his hearers were filled with joy and satisfaction. It is impossible to describe to you their happiness!

Alas! It is misguided ones like these who are the cause of division and hatred upon earth. Today there are millions of people who still worship idols, and the great religions of the world are at war among themselves. For 1,300 years, Christians and Muslims have been quarrelling, when with very little effort their differences and disputes could be overcome and peace and harmony could exist between them and the world could be at rest!

In the Qur'án we read that Muhammad spoke to his followers, saying:

'Why do you not believe in Christ, and in the Gospel? Why will you not accept Moses and the Prophets, for surely the Bible is the Book of God? In truth, Moses was a sublime Prophet, and Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit. He came to the world through the Power of God, born of the Holy Spirit and of the blessed Virgin Mary. Mary, His mother, was a saint from Heaven. She passed her days in the Temple at prayer and food was sent to her from above. Her father, Zacharias, came to her and asked her from whence the food came, and Mary made answer, "From on high." Surely God made Mary to be exalted above all other women.'

This is what Muhammad taught His people concerning Jesus and Moses, and He reproached them for their lack of faith in these great Teachers, and taught them the lessons of truth and tolerance. Muhammad was sent from God to work among a people as savage and uncivilized as the wild beasts. They were quite devoid of understanding, nor had they any feelings of love, sympathy and pity. Women were so degraded and despised that a man could bury his daughter alive, and he had as many wives to be his slaves as he chose.

Among these half animal people Muhammad was sent with His divine Message. He taught the people that idol worship was wrong, but that they should reverence Christ, Moses and the Prophets. Under His influence they became a more enlightened and civilized people and arose from the degraded state in which He found them. Was not this a good work, and worthy of all praise, respect and love?

Look at the Gospel of the Lord Christ and see how glorious it is! Yet even today men fail to understand its priceless beauty, and misinterpret its words of wisdom.

Christ forbade war! When the disciple Peter, thinking to defend his Lord, cut off the ear of the servant of the High Priest, Christ said to him: 'Put up thy sword into the sheath'.[1] Yet, in spite of the direct command of the Lord they profess to serve -- men still dispute, make war, and kill one another, and His counsels and teaching seem quite forgotten.
[1 St John xviii, 11.]

But do not therefore attribute to the Masters and Prophets the evil deeds of their followers. If the priests, teachers and people, lead lives which are contrary to the religion they profess to follow, is that the fault of Christ or the other Teachers?

The people of Islam were taught to realize how Jesus came from God and was born of the Spirit, and that He must be glorified of all men. Moses was a prophet of God, and revealed in His day and for the people to whom He was sent, the Book of God.

Muhammad recognized the sublime grandeur of Christ and the greatness of Moses and the prophets. If only the whole world would acknowledge the greatness of Muhammad and all the Heaven-sent Teachers, strife and discord would soon vanish from the face of the earth, and God's Kingdom would come among men.

The people of Islam who glorify Christ are not humiliated by so doing.

Christ was the Prophet of the Christians, Moses of the Jews -- why should not the followers of each prophet recognize and honour the other prophets also? If men could only learn the lesson of mutual tolerance, understanding, and brotherly love, the unity of the world would soon be an established fact.

Bahá'u'lláh spent His life teaching this lesson of Love and Unity. Let us then put away from us all prejudice and intolerance, and strive with all our hearts and souls to bring about understanding and unity between Christians and Muslims.

 ~ Abdu'l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 48

mother's day ~ a surprise gift

    "If the mother is educated then her children will be well taught. When the mother is wise, then will the children be led into the path of wisdom. If the mother be religious she will show her children how they should love God. If the mother is moral she guides her little ones into the ways of uprightness.

    It is clear therefore that the future generation depends on the mothers of today."

    
 ~ Abdu'l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 161

i woke up yesterday not expecting anything special for Mother's Day.  my husband is out of town and the kids are not inundated with media marketing here in Ghana so they forget these kinds of things.

all i felt throughout the day was gratitude for our family.  we have built a foundation of love that surpasses all of the temporary tests of life and it made me deeply happy and thankful..

my heart was focused on bringing joy to the mamas down the road by baking them a heart-shaped cake to share.  i found myself thinking of my Xhosa mama friends whose lives are full of hardships and i sent them all an sms to wish them a happy Mother's Day.  my heart was full of thankfulness for my mom, my step-mom, and my dear friends -- all from whom i have been nurtured and loved, supported and inspired, uplifted and enriched.  to me, it was a day of feeling interconnected with all mothers in the world and remembering the exalted station we have in the sight of God.  i called my mom and step-mom, wrote a few friends and reached out to many of my African sisters..it was a good day.

tonight i received an unexpected surprise from my 12 year old son: a belated Mother's Day card.  he decided to make me a card with these words inside because he didn't remember yesterday:

i couldn't be more thankful for my son's reflections today.  what a gift from his soul to mine.  certainly i have many moments of doubting my words of good counsel, or regretting my tone of voice, and becoming impatient when the moments become overwhelming.  these words are a sign of how the love and grace of God is all-pervasive in our lives as we continually strive to be better as mothers and fathers.

fasting ~ a story of Abdu'l-Baha

artwork by Mina Hatami

anyone who has ever fasted reaches a point at which the body and/or mind may reach a point of exhaustion.  we push ourselves to undertake our usual tasks and work of the day while facing heat or other strenuous circumstances.  yet out of our love for God we carry on with the hope that we are truly observing the spiritual fast, i.e., the cleansing of the spirit -- moments throughout the days that are spent communing with God and reflecting on what needs weeding out from the depths of our hearts.  we pray that our fast is acceptable in the sight of God and that we can fully observe it in spirit as well.

 the following story of Abdu'l-Baha demonstrates how taxing it was for Him at one point while He was fasting.  this story serves as the highest expressions of fortitude, steadfastness, detachment, love, servitude, devotion and wisdom while fasting:

The resident believers used to say that the phrase “effulgences of the Prison” was a term which had been revealed by the Tongue of Glory [Bahá’u’lláh] to characterize the hardships and tribulations associated with life in Akka; it had endured among the friends through word of mouth.

At the beginning these hardships were numerous, but many of them disappeared little by little, mainly because of the changes to the environment. Others still persisted. The various deadly epidemics, which during the time of Bahá’u’lláh’s imprisonment in the barracks had annihilated a large number of the inhabitants, had disappeared leaving no trace, as had the foul-smelling fumes which had caused and spread infectious diseases.

Still, one of those “effulgences of the Prison” which the passing of time and change in the climate had failed to overcome was the assault of the fleas, mosquitoes, flies and ants, which confirmed the expression, ‘Blessed the one who is bitten by the insects of Akka‘. Another was the thirty-day fast, which according to the command of Bahá’u’lláh was to be observed until the end of the period of incarceration to commemorate the Islamic holy month. Every sincere and devoted believer was expected to observe it gladly and of his own free will.

This thirty-day fast, which according to the Islamic calendar is observed in the month of Ramadan, continued to be kept until the end of the period of imprisonment in 1909 A.D. For the pilgrims and resident believers, who led relatively comfortable and peaceful lives, observing the thirty-day fast was not a difficult undertaking. But for the blessed person of the Centre of the Covenant, whose life was filled with numerous occupations and hardships, it can be imagined how arduous and exhausting such an observance was. This was especially true when in the month of Ramadan the Muslims of Akká, including all the government officials, switched their nights and days and conveniently slept during the daytime, while at night, after breaking the fast and observing the obligatory prayers, they crowded ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s biruni [living room] to while away the night and disturb the Master until dawn.

But that spiritual and heavenly Being had to begin His many tasks before the rising of the sun, as has been described in previous chapters. And so in the month of Ramadan no comfort was possible for ‘Abdu’l-Bahá; at times even the opportunity to partake of the meals did not present itself, and therefore His fast began without any breakfast and ended without any dinner. Thus the “effulgences of the Most Great Prison” sapped His strength and weakened His body. Many times during these days of fasting I saw the Master in such a state of exhaustion that I was deeply shaken.

On one such day He summoned me to His presence in the biruni area. As He spoke, signs of melancholy and weariness were apparent in His voice. He slowly paced the floor and then began to climb the stairs with difficulty. The symptoms of fatigue gave way to expressions of displeasure and weariness: “I don’t feel well. Yesterday I did not eat any breakfast and when the time came to break the fast I had no appetite. Now I need a bit of rest.” As He spoke, His face was so ashen that I became alarmed for His Well-being. So I boldly exclaimed, “It is better for the Master to break the fast."

"No, it is not proper,” was ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s reply.

I persisted. “With the way the Master feels, fasting itself is not proper either."

"It is not important, I will rest awhile” responded ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

"The believers cannot endure to see the Master in such a state of physical weakness and exhaustion,” I remained unyielding.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá gave an effective and moving explanation in the hope of convincing me to relent. It did not work. In fact, it increased my ardour, and I continued to try to persuade Him to break the fast. As He would not yield, my words became mixed with tears and lamentations. But He would not let up.

Suddenly I realized that I had found a new quality in myself which did not allow me to give in, despite all the reasons that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá had offered. And so, stubbornly holding my ground, I told myself, “Regardless of what may come of this, I will continue to beg, plead and implore until I achieve my purpose, for I can no longer behold the Beloved of the world in such a condition."

While begging and supplicating, strange thoughts crowded my mind. It was as if I wished to discover in what light my servitude and devotion to that Threshold was regarded in the sight of God. As such, I would consider success in this to be a good omen. And so from the very depths of my heart I entreated the Most Holy Shrine for assistance.

Spontaneously these words flowed from my lips, “So may I make a suggestion?"
"What do you want me to do?” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá replied. Tears streaming from my eyes, I begged Him, “Come and for this once break your fast, to bring happiness to the heart of a sinful servant of Bahá’u’lláh."

God be praised, I know not where those words came from, but they brought such joy to the heart of that quintessence of kindness and love that quite loudly He exclaimed, “Of course, of course, of course."

Immediately He called for Nasir and told him, “Put some water in the pot and boil it and make a cup of tea for me.” And then He put His blessed hand on my shoulder and said,” Are you pleased with me now? If you wish, you can go back to your tasks now and I will drink the tea and pray for you." Such feelings of joy and ecstasy flooded my being at that moment that I was rendered incapable of a reasonable response.

Looking at me, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá remarked, “Do you want to be present to see with your own eyes when I break my fast? Very well, come and sit down.” He then withdrew to His small office, took up the pen and began to write, as I watched. Aqa Rida now came into the presence of the Master for some particular purpose. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá remarked, “Today I do not feel well and in response to the request of one of the loved ones of God I want to break my fast."

As Aqa Rida left the room, the teapot with a single glass and a bowl of sugar were brought in. Addressing me, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, Jinab-i-Khan, you have performed a praiseworthy service. May God bless you. If I had not broken the fast now; I would surely have fallen ill and would have been forced to break the fast.” And with every sip of the tea, He bestowed on me other kind and loving words. After that He arose and said, “Now that I feel better, I will go after my work and will continue to pray for you."

And then He started down the stairs. In the biruni reception room there was no one except the late Aqa Siyyid Ahmad-i-Afnan (the same Afnan upon whom the rank of martyr was bestowed posthumously). Addressing him, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, “Jinab-i-Afnan, today I was not feeling well and intended to rest, but at the request of a beloved friend I have broken my fast. I am happy to have done so, for otherwise I would have fallen ill. But now I feel well and can continue the work of the Cause.” Having said this, He walked out of the room.

Jinab-i-Afnan, his eyes shining with the light of pure joy and delight, said, “God Almighty, who was that ‘beloved friend‘, so that I can sacrifice my life for him?” And I, drunk with manifest victory, exclaimed, “It was I, it was I".   In brief, rather than any attempt at sacrifice of life, and filled with heavenly joy, we embraced each other as our spirits soared. As we did so, I placed in the storehouse of my memory the fact that the thirty-day fast truly was an “effulgence of the Most Great Prison”.

(Dr. Youness Afroukhteh, Memories of Nine Years In Akká)

raising children..to be like Abdu'l-Baha

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.
~ Baha'u'llah

our children have continuously been counseled to heed the principle of Baha'u'llah to focus on one's own faults rather than other people's faults.  it's a very challenging counsel for them to uphold as it is simply too easy for them to see someone else's faults and blame them for what happened instead of looking at their own behavior, attitude or lack of virtue in the situation.

this is what has been happening in our home:  one child comes to us to complain about the other sibling's misconduct; they feel justified in their anger and are very clear about how the other person was rude, or disrespectful, or hurtful, etc.  the other sibling interrupts and defends him/herself, eager to assert how the other sibling was actually wrong in some other misconduct.  the argument then escalates to a yelling match.  this is not the way we have counseled them to behave when they are upset, yet it has been occurring with such increasing frequency after a month home on holiday break from school that it was time for this dynamic to yet again be addressed and changed.

when the screaming ended recently, both siblings walked away very angrily.  they both felt wronged.  they both wanted the other person to admit their misbehavior instead of defend themselves.  i remained silent.  my heart and mind were grappling for a permanent solution to resolve what has reached an unacceptable level of disunity, arguing and mean-spiritedness with their hearts and tongues.

after a half hour of reflecting, i talked with my husband, who was working from home, and expressed my frustration.  as parents we have come together many times over the years to consult, find agreement and put a decision into unified action as to how to address an issue of behavior and misconduct with the children.  this is an ongoing pursuit along the journey of spiritually training them as souls who are upright with a high moral rectitude of conduct for themselves as a soul in this life.
in that moment together, we agreed to have a 'family meeting' with the purpose of upholding Abdu'l-Baha's advice for having a sin-covering eye:

1. Look only at that which is worthy of praise in another human being
2. Be silent concerning the faults of others
3. Pray for them
4. Lovingly help them to correct their faults

Abdu'l-Baha never shamed anyone.  He most lovingly helped them to see their imperfection, oftentimes without necessarily saying anything, as He poured His love into their hearts.  He taught us through His example that it is essential to see only the good in the other person, even when there may be many 'bad' things to see.  He then insists that silence and prayer will be the necessary tools to heal all the wounds and re-establish a feeling of love between souls as unity will be the force which is released through these two disciplines.  when there is love in the heart again, after silence and prayer, then it may be the time to talk about what happened, with each person acknowledging how they could have behaved better -- using the spiritual powers or virtues that God has given our souls to use in this life in order to grow spiritually stronger.

these 4 steps are lofty and noble.  they are conducive to preserving our dignity and honoring each other as a soul that is loved by God, no matter how aberrant the behavior.  they create space and solitude between people instead of defensiveness and anger.  they offer the peoples of world the highest spiritual standard from which to establish true unity.


as our children sat and listened to this counsel once again, i could sense their resistance to not being able to tell us what the other sibling had done which, in their view, was 'wrong'.  i explained that we were going to concentrate on the first 3 guidelines of Abdu'l-Baha, leaving the 4th one out for now, since the tongue had become a 'smoldering fire' and had repeatedly not been used in a loving way.  anytime they were upset, they could come to us and share what they could have done better, including how to respond to an injustice with a virtue like forbearance or understanding -- rather than getting so upset that someone had made a mistake.  we reminded them that we ALL have faults, we ALL make these mistakes, oftentimes without any intention to hurt the other person but merely because we are all on the path toward perfection and naturally have our own shortcomings to overcome along the way.

we ended the family meeting with the assurance that if there was a situation that was very difficult to accept, that we could listen to each person say what they should have or could have done better.  they knew at that point that this was going to be a serious shift in their old pattern of running to us to magnify the other person's faults.  we asked them to silently reflect on what had been said for a half hour and then to resume whatever they were doing with each other.

after 3 weeks of practicing this principle of having a sin-covering eye and focusing on one's own spiritual development, the yelling and arguing have been reduced to a rare occasion.  with the exception of one time, they have all focused on how they could respond to the situation with a virtue (or many virtues!).  they are still tempted to tell us details of what the other person did but they are resisting their natural tendency to blame the other person.  we have had to come together a few times to listen to what the other person could have done better and it immediately has helped the person who felt 'wronged' feel better without them having to complain about their sibling.

as Baha'i parents, we are on a continual journey of learning as we strive to put into practice the spiritual principles revealed in the Teachings of Baha'u'llah.  we are striving to better ourselves as we strive to nurture their spiritual development.  we make many mistakes but we continue to apologize humbly and try again to do better and be better.  raising children is like climbing a never-ending ladder toward nearness to God -- the only way to climb is through prayer, effort and consultation in a humble attitude toward the glory of God's presence in our lives.  the life and ways of Abdu'l-Baha always serve to direct our efforts toward the highest possible standard of conduct for how to live our lives.

May Maxwell story

the following is a precious, incredibly awe-inspiring story..

recorded by May Maxwell:

“One day in the streets of Paris in the early spring, I saw a little lame boy on a crutch holding a pussy-willow, his face lighted with rapture. I stood and gazed at him and he lifted his eyes to mine and our souls seemed to meet in mutual love and understanding in that moment of beauty. I told my great and learned teacher whom the Master sent to me, Mirza Abul-Fazl, of this slight but touching incident and he said that out of such moments light is born, that out of that momentary contact of the spirit would unfold in the worlds beyond a whole life of meaning and purpose. The traces appear on this earth but the fruition is beyond, the seed of a loving deed, a warm and tender contact, a word of love and hope. A little service, a small sacrifice are but the traces here which like the seed will grow to mighty trees and bear imperishable fruits hereafter. Then how much more such lives as yours, spent in the service of the Cause of God, dedicated to Him, establishing an eternal foundation in this world whose superstructure shall appear in shining minarets and gems under the light of the eternal Sun.”

~ From The Maxwells of Montreal, pp 137-138

spiritual empowerment group ~ a new beginning

"Divine civilization, however, so traineth every member of society that no one, with the exception of a negligible few, will undertake to commit a crime... They will become enamored of human perfections, and will consecrate their lives to whatever will bring light to the world and will further those qualities which are acceptable at the Holy Threshold of God."

 (Abdu'l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu'l-Baha, p. 132)

after being away for 3 months and taking a few weeks to settle back into life here in Accra, it was time to resume the jr. youth group sessions.  with the exception of our 13 year old daughter, the group consists of kids from the neighborhood.  four of them were 14 years old when we formed, but they were all related to their younger siblings and it helped give the group solidity and support.  now that it's a year later, and all of them have turned 15, they are no longer interested or available for the sessions.  it's one of those growing pains that initially stings but soon gives way to sweetness..

with the older kids no longer actively engaged in the spiritual empowerment program, we were now a group of 5.  i called and invited them to come regroup this past weekend.

from among the four jr. youth who are remaining in the group, there are 2 other siblings, Magdelene (11) and Gideon (10), who have consistently attended Baha'i children's classes and Devotions with our family this past year.  they have been more than eager and interested to create their own jr. youth group as they've seen the enjoyment it brings to their older siblings.  i invited them to come by at the end of the session to play soccer with the group, but they showed up at the beginning of the session.  i let them hang around while we were setting up the space as i wondered what to say to them..

when everyone was gathering to sit down together, i had to address the possibility of having Magdelene and Gideon join the 'gems of justice' group.  as we were consulting, my daughter offered, 'well if they are going to join the group, shouldn't my brother join, too?  he's 11.'  at that moment it clicked for everyone and they answered, 'yes!' and all of a sudden we were in a joyful dialogue about how to help them catch up by studying Breezes of Confirmation as they continue to progress through Glimmerings of Hope.  the older siblings in the group said they can tutor them in the spirit of service. :)  everyone felt happy and energized..this was the moment of sweetness!

it was completely unforeseen how the group would evolve into one that is based on the appropriate age and full of eagerness to learn and serve!  it was one of the best sessions because all of them were participating and interacting as close friends.  i felt so grateful and excited to see a new beginning emerge for this group.

this term, we're planning on presenting a step-dance presentation at the next reflection meeting in november, as well as attending a weekend camp at the Baha'i institute which is an hour away.  we will continue to learn how to manage and care for the keyhole garden and enjoy some new service and sports activities. 

Gideon and Dyami working together

i know that Gideon is not quite ready for the group, especially in terms of his ability to read and comprehend some of the concepts we're discussing.  even if he's not officially considered as part of the group, i believe that being part of this learning process with his friends will have a beneficial effect on him in every way.

he is the first soul i met here in the neighborhood and he's been the one child who has come to every tutoring session, Devotions, children's class and storytelling night that we've hosted.  i have learned that connecting spiritually with 9-10 year olds is a vital precursor to introducing the spiritual empowerment program when they become jr. youth.

Magdelene, Ayana, Dyami, Emil, Jude & Gideon (missing: Akua & Elizabeth)

 

Isaiah..coconut juice vendor

this is Isaiah Boltey.  he is a hard-working young man selling coconut juice on the side of the road in East Legon (the area of Accra where we live).

while he waits for a sale, he lays in the shade under the trees where a plant nursery is located.  when i pull up in the car and roll the window down, he is always so full of joy to greet my driver and me.  he and the driver speak the local language, Twi, together, but since he is from the Central Region he speaks it differently so it makes them laugh a lot each time they are together.

with a machete, Isaiah takes the coconut and skillfully chops off the top sides of the coconut.  he then gives the top piece a side chop to open it just enough without it falling off.  before choosing a coconut he will ask us if we want the soft or hard type -- this refers to the coconut meat, whether you like it soft or hard (i like the hard, dry type; the other type is easier to chew but it feels too smushy sometimes).  after we drink the juice, we give the coconut back to him and he scrapes the coconut meat out and puts the pieces in a plastic bag for us to take away.  it amazes me that he can tell which kind of coconut meat is inside; all of the coconuts look the same to me.

i met Isaiah last year when we moved to this section of the city.  he exudes gratitude and radiance.  he works for someone who provides the coconuts from another region.  each coconut sells for 60 pesawas each (which is about .40 cents).  i give him extra change whenever i have it.  surely he is blessed for striving each day to earn his living honestly and with determination and perseverance..  his goal is to work for himself so that he can earn enough money to save and plan for his future.

"It is enjoined upon every one of you to engage in some form of occupation, such as crafts, trades and the like. We have graciously exalted your engagement in such work to the rank of worship unto God, the True One. Ponder ye in your hearts the grace and the blessings of God and render thanks unto Him at eventide and at dawn. Waste not your time in idleness and sloth. Occupy yourselves with that which profiteth yourselves and others."

(Baha'u'llah, Tablets of Baha'u'llah, p. 26)

a Sioux story: choosing inner peace

below is a Sioux story shared by the Native Spirits Tribal Community.  it is one of those stories that touches the very spirit of our lives being as beautiful, interconnected gems of Oneness:

My grandfather took me to the fishing pond when I was about seven, and he told me to throw a stone into the water.

He told me to watch the circles created by the stone.  Then he asked me to think of myself as that stone person.

"You may create lots of splashes in your life, but the waves that come from those splashes will disturb the peace of all your fellow creatures," he said.

"Remember that you are responsible for what you put in your circle and that circle will also touch many other circles."

"You will need to live in a way that allows the good that comes from your circle to send the peace of that goodness to others."

"The splash that comes from anger or jealousy will send those feelings to other circles. You are responsible for both."

That was the first time I realized each person creates the inner peace or discord that flows out into the world.

We cannot create world peace if we are riddled with inner conflict, hatred, doubt, or anger. 

We radiate the feelings and thoughts that we hold inside, whether we speak them or not.

Whatever is splashing around inside of us is spilling out into the world, creating beauty or discord with all other circles of life.

Remember the eternal wisdom:
WHATEVER YOU FOCUS ON EXPANDS...

 ~Author Unknown

inspired by Machine Gun Preacher

while sitting in the back of a KLM airplane on our way back to ghana after a week-long holiday with our children in France and Italy, my husband and i searched the list of movies to watch to pass the time.  we wanted to watch one that we wouldn't mind seeing on a tiny screen while having to press the earphones against our ears to offset the sound of the plane's engines.  we quickly agreed on Machine Gun Preacher.  we soon found ourselves wrapped up in the atrocities of the Ugandan/South Sudan war, our thoughts no longer lingering on the wonderful, joyful moments spent on holiday with our children..

this film is very raw and gripping.  it stirs up anger and disgust as well as incredible inspiration to see how this one man, Sam Childers, lived his life in a most sinful way and then dedicated himself to maintaining an orphanage in that region of conflict.  he is not an example to me or any kind of hero, yet his determination to put the lives of those children first is what i appreciate.  the film depicts his weaknesses and flaws, as well as how challenging it was for his family while he followed his passion to build the orphanage at by any means necessary (now i'm thinking of Malcolm X :)).

this film strengthened our resolve to extend our life of Baha'i service -- which is based on the spiritual upliftment of the human family through the principles revealed by Baha'u'llah -- to encompass building a long-lasting, sustainable 'structure' -- a physical institution of one form or another that represents and contributes to the spiritual foundation of any community..

for years we have longed to build something:  a school, a sports center, a community center, a community garden, and an orphanage.  these are basic 'structures' -- but we feel they will only be dynamic and sustainable if they are infused with and based on the spiritual principles of equity, freedom of all forms of prejudice, and a high moral standard of conduct.  for us, these 'structures' must serve a greater purpose, providing a foundation for a spiritual civilization.

as Baha'is, we are striving to live a life of nobility, justice and universal brotherhood -- principles which transcend all current standards of charity and service.  we want to build something that exemplifies a standard of excellence for others to follow, something which enables everyone in a community to feel touched by the highest ideals of nobility, honor, dignity, purity and holiness.  it would welcome all and serve as a refuge, an opportunity, and a place which offers possibilities for a glorious future of high-minded, service-oriented, spiritually enlightened, and excellence-seeking souls..

i have always struggled to undertake anything big or visionary.  i have allowed all of the possible obstacles -- money, inexperience, lack of education, location, my age -- to prevent me from taking steps toward accomplishing significant goals (like a Master's degree).  but at a deeper level i realize it's because i haven't had the confidence to believe in myself.  this is still a struggle for me in many ways.  but despite all of my excuses, inabilities and lack of confidence, this film actually encouraged me to feel able to accomplish this goal of finally establishing a 'structure'.  i think what makes this feeling possible is that my husband has the same exact goal.  he and i working together gives me a sense of confidence about being able to accomplish something big (though these years of raising children is pretty awesome in and of itself!)..

whether the film is accurate or exaggerated, the character in the film inspired us.. he is far from perfect yet he chose to sacrifice his life for others -- he continued following his heart because it was the right thing to do.  he wasn't defeated by his own faults and weaknesses.  he wasn't discouraged by others' lack of support.  he had no thought of himself in those moments of making decisions to fight for the human rights of these children of war..

hospitality ~ serving others

we have been working with 2 carpenters to order and receive furniture for a few months: Ephram and Ada.  last week was our final delivery.  they brought the items in a pick-up truck and brought them inside.  once they were finished setting things up, they sat down to write the receipts and settle the payment.  i asked them if they would like some tea or coffee.  this is a question i ask each time but it is not easy for them to accept the request.  after their pause i commented, 'That means yes!'  i knew they wanted to accept the offer because of their silence instead of an instant 'no'.  i brought them some tea on a tray with some leftover doughy rolls from breakfast.  next i came with 2 small plates, each with a little jam to spread on the rolls.  one of them never ate jam before..

the tv unit, center table & bookshelves..all made by Ephram & Ada

after settling the bill, they began talking in twi, their mother tongue.  Ephram then began speaking on behalf of Ada (who speaks less English that he does).  he explained that they have never met anyone like me -- a white person with some wealth who has been so kind to them.   the way it was explained was very touching and humbling..it brought a tear to my eye.  my response was explaining that this is what my love for Baha'u'llah does, and this is our way of life because of Him..that we see the beauty of God in each soul through His Teachings.  we respect each soul.  we don't think anyone is more important than anyone else.

we cannot measure how much our simple acts of service or hospitality are touching people's hearts.  the remnants of racism and prejudice are carried like a heavy burden and buried deep inside many black people's hearts as a result of their life experiences.  it sometimes takes a long time for acts of service to easily be received as genuine from white people.  Ephram said that clients do not offer even a cup of water to them when they deliver the furniture.  i know that it's more than just being deprived of a quenching drink that he's conveying.  it's just an example which demonstrates the overall the lack of genuine kindness shown to them.  it's insulting and cold, especially to the African culture of always offering whatever you have to make the person in your home welcome after their journey to come see you. 

every person in this world can make a difference, every day, every moment -- just by offering simple acts of generosity, helpfulness, thoughtfulness or kindness.  all of these are universal qualities, simple virtues.  but unless one's heart is like an empty receptacle of God's love, that love we have for Him cannot be channeled and translated into service.  i wasn't 'trying' to be of service..it is a natural impulse that bursts forth as a way to express my love for God, for His people -- we are all His people, His servants, created out of His love.  there's no ulterior motive, or hope for reward or recognition.  the moment those impurities creep in, the spirit is removed from any act of serving.  as we spread the Teachings of Baha'u'llah which open one's heart to this limitless sense of seeing the world under the banner of Oneness, and each living thing as part of each other, connected beyond what we can describe, then this way of serving one another -- without any barriers which currently create estrangement, pride, arrogance, fear, greed, selfishness, jealousy, envy -- will be discovered as the key to happiness.  true happiness is nearness to God..and the best way to grow closer to God is by serving humanity for His sake, not our own.

Ephram has taken 6 Baha'i books up to this point.  he likes to read and investigate.  he knows that we are Baha'i.  he is rooted in Christianity yet is very interested to know Who Baha'u'llah is in relation to Christ.  he is reading 'Some Answered Questions' and 'Christ and Baha'u'llah' among others like 'Thief in the Night'.  aside from any books he is reading, i realize that it is our family life, our innermost thoughts and intentions, the purity of our hearts, and the radiance of our faces that will connect his heart with the spirit that is in Word of God that he is reading.  this is our daily striving and supplication..

story: life in ghana

we are staying at a guest house in Accra until we find a house to live in.  we have been here for 2 months and it continues to be an interesting experience, to say the least.

yesterday the boys kicked the soccer ball over the tall wall of the compound into the adjacent cemetery. they explained to me that their 2 friends didn't want to enter the cemetery alone. so i did the natural thing and jumped up from my seat, slid on my sandals, walked down the stairs, opened the heavy gate of the compound and began walking around the side of the compound along a rocky, dirt path that often smells like urine by the time it reaches the intersecting market-lined street.

about half a block down the market-lined road we entered through an opening of a cement wall that looked like we were entering an abandoned lot. tall grass was interspersed with rows of baby cornstalks, the tiniest chickens i've ever seen, and about 15 old tombstones. i followed the two local boys along the dirt pathway which led to the family's home. set partly under an old, large tree, the light blue colored, wooden home had 2 young women sitting in the doorway braiding hair. after a friendly greeting, i noticed their surprise that i could say 'thank you' in the local 'twi' language. they gave their permission for the boys to retrieve the ball and went back to braiding.

i realize now that i didn't take in much detail of the home itself. i was immediately attracted to the woman who woke up from her nap. she sat up on the bench which was put together with scrap pieces of wood, and with a bright smile she motioned for me to come sit next to her. we were under the tree -- in front of us was a dirt courtyard area; behind us were many baby cornstalk plants in perfect rows shooting up as a result of the rainy season that began last month. in the corner of the garden area was a large compost area next to a shed.

after sharing some greetings in twi, the elderly woman explained what all of the tattoos on her arms and legs meant. the young woman came over and explained to me in english what the woman was saying -- apparently the tattoos were very painful but she was proud of them: gardening shears, a scorpion, a butterfly, a bird & a watch (on her wrist). just when i was in the moment of this special moment, the boys returned with the ball. we hugged and said goodbye.

it felt like i walked into a world that was rich with stories of survival, cooperation, innovation and dignity. it reminded me of the kind of movie, like The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, where a child enters a whole new world which is magically connected with yet completely different from the one from which the child lives in. we are staying in a giant guest house in a neighborhood full of big homes and large yards. behind us is a world of full of material poverty. 

i like entering new worlds and find myself drawn to the ones with less material comforts yet more humility and love -- it is there i find myself full of joy.  the woman in the cemetery is one of God's gems in the web of humanity's oneness; she enriched my life in that short moment together.

Delft ~ a continual journey of joy, serving & learning

an exciting experience happened yesterday in Delft. i had let the friends there know that i would come at 10am to sell clothes which would raise money for the classes, even if only a tiny bit was offered for each item. this was a suggestion by a Bahá'í and then welcomed by the few people who i had informed. i came while the children were in school. when i arrived, a group of children (some of whom should be in school) started jumping up and down and telling people i was there. they were sitting outside this empty, but new, metal container (the kind used to ship goods around the world, but here it is something valuable to be used in various ways) where i was to set out the items. the mamas started coming and naturally and appreciatively took interest in most of the things available (really nice stuff!). i let it be up to them how much to offer, and one of them who supports the classes was responsible for collecting the money. i was soooo happy to see it happening -- i was outside enjoying the children while the mamas spoke Xhosa and seemed to be negotiating amongst themselves, with moments of laughter, who would get what.

after it settled down, 4 of them sat down on the edge of the container and we all shared some snacks together that i had in my pocketbook. this sounds like a normal happening, but it’s so different because i seem to bring foods they have either never had or they haven’t had in a long time. today it was oatmeal shortbread (cindy ravines’ recipe) and some dried apricots and almonds. i can’t understand what comments they are making, but i can see they are having an experience of discovery and enjoyment. the children receive their portion and eagerly wait for more until one of the mamas says something to make them all immediately step away.

during our conversation, they told me 2 women took a lot but only paid a little -- they felt it was unfair and that next time i should put prices on the items. this felt presumptuous to me so we consulted and agreed that they themselves would put the prices on. they assured me that they know who can and can’t afford a particular price, and would make sure everyone paid what they could afford. this was amazing to me. they know the money is for the children’s classes. they know it’s a good deal to receive all these clothes and linens, and they want to establish a sense of justice about it!

a little later Siboleke came by -- whenever i see him (the community leader) i feel like something is progressing or developing between us in terms of understanding and mutual support. today he informed me that he’s been talking with the people of the community and they all feel this is a good thing for their children (!). i was so happy to receive this confirmation. he feels more parents should be involved so they can further encourage their children with what they are learning, so now i know how he responds to them when they discuss what’s happening on Saturday mornings.

at one point i was sitting in the middle of the road with 3 children on my lap while the one in front of me just started singing song after song that we’ve learned in class!! it was so sweet. so we sang, did hand movements, and even learned a couple new ones just with her (i tested them out on her to gauge whether or not the class would learn them easily or not).  hanging out with the children leaves me wishing i had endless time, means and energy to help develop their inner and outer faculties. it’s simply love.

before i left, i asked Nthombekhaya (it took me weeks and weeks to learn how to say that name before i finally wrote it down and could phonetically see it in my mind) if she wanted to learn how to drive. she is an adult in her 30’s but has never been behind the wheel. at first i drove and explained what to do (it’s a stick shift!), and then she practiced on her own (while nearly crashing into property off the street a couple of times!). i was like, ‘brake, brake!’ at one point, but we had so much fun i can’t wait to do it again sometime. there’s another mama who wants to learn as well, so i said, ‘little by little we’ll make sure you learn how to drive’.

i thought a lot about this the rest of the day -- they cannot drive; they may not have the means to purchase a car; i learned as a youth; i have had the privilege of exploring and being free to take myself places for 23 years…but i keep wondering what i haven’t experienced, what i do not have the means to discover or be able to do as they have. i know they have a rich, rich sense of culture and history, of connectedness and support, of music and knowledge of survival… in many ways our lives are full of contrasts, without similarities. yet, of course, our spiritual oneness connects us like no other force in this world, so i continue to enjoy the camaraderie in what we do share and enjoy together, especially when we can joke together!

when i left Delft today i wanted to come right back. i want to begin a Bahá'í school, a place of growing food and learning nutrition and practicing permaculture, of learning English and the sciences, holding it all together within the Bahá'í framework of the oneness of humanity and world peace.