[I]t is only through continued action, reflection and consultation on their part that they will learn to read their own reality, see their own possibilities, make use of their own resources. (Universal House of Justice, Framework for Action, #16)
I’m in a dilemma as we approach the Bicentenary of the Birth of the Bab, in that when I read my own reality, I don’t know which voices to listen to. On the one hand, I don’t want to attend the event planned in a town half an hour away, because it is past my bedtime and I don’t see to drive at night, even if I was to lean on God’s energy to stay up later than my body is comfortable with, so I’m judging myself harshly.
On the other hand, I have held two devotional gatherings geared to the success of all the events worldwide, consulted with the organizers of the night event and provided resources and planned an event for the next day, to celebrate it with others who are in a similar situation.
It’s enough! God doesn’t expect me to do more than I can do. He knows my weakness and my limitations and loves me just the way I am. Now I need to be more forgiving and compassionate of my own poor self, trusting I’m doing my part.
Learning how to consult, act and reflect as a way to read my reality, I am at peace and I am grateful!
What jumped out for you as you read through today’s meditation? I’d love it if you would share so we can all expand our knowledge of the Writings!
If you liked this meditation, you might also like my book Getting to Know Your Lower Nature
I resonate with the dilemma! It appears it won’t be possible for me to go to an event after all, for the same reasons as you and also a sick husband. What I’ve decided to do is connect with the worldwide spirit online: https://bicentenary.bahai.org/the-bab/. Thank you for the post.
Thanks Susanne for that link! It’s incredibly inspiring to watch what Baha’is around the world are doing for the Bicentennial. I agree! It helps me feel connected to the larger picture! Ya Baha’u’l-Abha! Thank you to the House of Justice for making this possible!
I agree that we need to read our own reality. It’s our responsibility to discern the tasks that we have resources to contribute to. It’s also our responsibility to sustain ourselves with reasonable cognitive and emotional health. It’s taken me years to learn that I am worthy to belong to this community in recognizing my reality. All the basic Plans have been designed by Baha’u’llah for trustees – appointed or elected – to administer them. If/when there is confusion, it requires consultation, trust and love to resolve it. Seeing each other as each “doing my best” helps to move away anxiety, panic and worry. I’m fortunate to have been able to offer a neighbourhood event that brought loving and interested friends. I’ve also had the opportunity to participate in celebrations for both the Bab and Baha’u’llah. Being moderate in decisions to participate in each of these days, leaves me content and happy.
Yes, you’ve hit on something important, Terry – moderation! Thank you for this reminder of how to get to contentment and happiness!