However, relying upon God, we conducted ourselves with the utmost patience and submission, resignation and calmness; so much that if one did not know anything about these matters, he would have thought that we were in perfect ease of soul, enjoying the tranquility of heart mind, and were engaged in happiness and felicity. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá v1, p. 45)
It’s hard for me to rely on God when I’m impatient for something to happen or a quick decision to be made and I’m learning that it’s at these times I need to hold tight to His cord even more. Test number one!
It’s even harder to do it with patience, let alone “utmost patience”. Test number two!
It’s harder still to submit to God’s will, especially if I have to be “utmost patient” for years, as I’ve had to do with several important issues that apparently, it’s not within my power to rush. And even harder when God’s given me a disappointing NO! Test number three!
It’s also hard to be resigned (or worse yet, radiantly acquiescent) in the face of so many tests. Test number four!
And calm? Really, God? On top of everything else, you want me to be calm, when so many emotions are churning around inside me? Test number five!
And finally, to not let anyone know I’m struggling, to wear that “Feast face”, so that everyone around me would think that I’m “in perfect ease of soul, enjoying the tranquility of heart mind, and were engaged in happiness and felicity”. Test number six!
So many tests embedded in that one quote.
Knowing that reliance on God comes with other things I have to consider, and that all He wants is for me to strive, I am grateful!
What jumped out for you when you read this passage? Please share your thoughts below.
If you liked this meditation, you might also like my book Strengthening Your Relationship with God
It’s all the same challenge, I feel. All we can do is try, with prayer and a meditative mind. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá advised contentment under all circumstances. We are human, so we may not do it very well or easily, but if we think about being contented, it seems to help …
Good point, Nancy. I think I’ll try remembering to think about being contented more often. When life is such a struggle, I totally forget that ‘Abdu’l-Baha wants us to be happy, and I know that happiness is a choice (I WILL be a happy and joyful being!)
I enjoyed how you put this. Test number seven for me is honesty and authenticity … how do you put forward this appearance of calmness and resignation in a way that still allows a genuine reaction to circumstances and an honest connection with others.
At first it reminded me of cultures and families who frown on the expression of emotion and conversely I am also reminded of cultures and families who allow their emotions to flow freely without restraint. I wonder if this is another instance of encouraging us to tread a dignified path along the middle ground, acknowledging our difficulties to God and our closest companions. Then, in the safety of the love of God, the knowledge of His perfect wisdom and understanding and assured of His protection and grace, we can face the world with quiet courage and trust
Yes, this is such an important point, Julie! Thanks for your contribution!
I’m right there – screaming beside you.
Me too!!
My earlier comment was reflecting on possibilities…. My reality is more of the screaming variety. Lol
Glad to know I’m not alone in this struggle Duane and Julie!
Right now I relate to all of them! I’ve gotten stuck in a pattern of diminishing returns with someone. We trigger each other- intermittent stonewalling-rejection. So many attempts have been made only to fall back in to habitual thinking and action. My head knows I have to detach and accept things as they are, but on another level I haven’t been able to do it. I’ve been reading your book, getting to know your lower nature which has been helpful. I need the Fast which fortunately is right around the corner!
Yes, thanks for reminding us of the importance of the Fast, Sheila! I can’t believe it’s that time of year again!
PS. I’m so glad to hear that my book “Getting to Know Your Lower Nature” has been so helpful. It’s astonishing to learn that all of the books I’ve written, this one is now available at WalMart; AND is on the Amazon “Best Seller” list! Ya Baha’u’l-Abha!