A LIFE OF SERVICE
by Betty Frost, for the Dunnville Free Press
This describes a talk given on behalf of the Baha’is of Haldimand recently in the Garfield Disher Room of Dunnville’s Library.
Our speaker, Charlotte Letkemann, is a retired teacher. A member of the Baha’i Faith for many years, she has served in innumerable ways.
We would all like to be of service. Charlotte saw the life of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, Son of the Founder of the Baha’i Faith, as an example of a true life of service. He was born in1844 and lived until 1921. He was imprisoned, along with his Father, for many years but always served his fellow man. . Upon His release, “though bent with age, and suffering from ailments resulting from the accumulated cares of fifty years of exile and captivity, ‘Abdu’l-Baha set out on a memorable journey...” He visited Europe, Canada and the United States spreading His kindness, care and thoughtfulness for the whole of mankind whether they be rich, poor, knowledgeable, or ignorant. His was a life of service to all.
He had a wonderful sense of humour. Often, during the difficult days in prison, He would have each prisoner relate the most ludicrous event that had happened. Laughter was inevitable.
‘Abdu’l-Baha’s life shows him as an Exemplar of true service. We pondered our own possibilities to reflect this capacity. We need to become the best person we can be at whatever field we choose - curing cancer or teaching pre-school. Some may have a lasting effect and others (such as cleaning up a river) only a temporary one.
He had a wonderful sense of humour. Often, during the difficult days in prison, He would have each prisoner relate the most ludicrous event that had happened. Laughter was inevitable.
‘Abdu’l-Baha’s life shows him as an Exemplar of true service. We pondered our own possibilities to reflect this capacity. We need to become the best person we can be at whatever field we choose - curing cancer or teaching pre-school. Some may have a lasting effect and others (such as cleaning up a river) only a temporary one.
There is no higher goal then serving humanity. The world is sick. If we look at history, the cure is at hand: kindness and nonviolence.
Our next speaker is Nancy Flynn speaking on “Building a New World”, at the Dunnville Library, Wednesday, October 8th. John Taylor will speak next on November 12th on “Universal Peace - a True World Government”.
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