Introduction

While serving in Haifa

The purpose of the blog titled "A Tribute to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá" is simply because of my love for the Beloved Master whom I have felt a close connection since my childhood in Africa, in the States, and especially during my brief time serving at the Baha'i World Centre.  In addition, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá came to America in 1912, almost 100 years ago which is a good time than ever for reflection.

A word of caution: this blog will contain my own experiences, feelings, thoughts unless quoted directly from the Writings.  You will want to compare with your own understanding and in light of the Revelation.

This space will also allow me to dive more deeply into the Writings.  I had the bounty of serving in Haifa for almost three years; one appreciates the beauty of the gardens and is aware of the spiritual forces that surrounds us particularly in the Shrines.  There is a certain force or energy that captures one's heart.  In going to the Shrines, one feels rejuvenated each time.  In Haifa, on Mount Carmel is laid to rest The Báb as well as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.  We are fortunate to be able to pray in these two Blessed Rooms.  And Bahá’u’lláh is buried in Bahji, the Most Holy Spot on earth for Baha'is.  To be alone in the Shrines is also an incredible experience! This is one of the main things those of us who have served there miss: being able to go to the Shrines each day to pray to our Beloved, and to walk in the gardens and meditate.

As one studies the Writings of the Cause and meditates deeply on them, through prayers, through action, through having spiritual conversations with others, and of course the grace of Bahá’u’lláh, one starts to appreciate and understand a bit more the greatness of this Faith which is less than two hundred years old, the infant Faith of God! While In Haifa, one also realizes the tireless work of Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Baha'i Faith which I am hoping to touch upon in this blog.  My father had a dream from the Guardian to go to Chad, Africa and that is how we ended up there.  I also fell deeply in love with the Universal House of Justice.  This is an Institution that is not well understood by the world.  The Universal House of Justice is a gift by Baha'u'llah to humanity (not just the Baha'is).

Bahá’u’lláh has protected His Faith through a Covenant.  This Covenant helps us remain united since the aim of the Baha'i Faith is the oneness of humanity.  Bahá’u’lláh in His written Will and Testament has appointed Abdu'l-Baha as the sole interpreter of His writings.  And in turn, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá appointed in writing Shoghi Effendi to succeed Him.  I am emphasizing the word "writing" since this is the first time in religious history we have a will in ink.  So there are no disputes later on.  And now all the Baha'is of the world turn to the Universal House of Justice who direct the Baha'i world to move forward in carrying out the will of Bahá’u’lláh for humanity.  This is a brief explanation for now.  More to come!