"It behoveth man to adhere tenaciously unto that which will promote fellowship, kindliness and unity." ~Bahá’u’lláh, Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 89
This coming weekend is the Thanksgiving celebration in Canada. I am still not used to many of the Canadian holidays. My middle son surprised me and asked to come home for the holiday. This is a man-child that usually is not cognizant of holidays and prefers to spend as much time as he possibly can with his friends. I too was unprepared contemplating that I would like to take the time to fast during this time. I have learned that many folks do this in memory of our indigenous ancestors and those who endured slavery. I still plan to do this but will have my son to enjoy the time with. He has also decided that we will host one of his friends at our home. The prospect of having a full house was very welcome to me. My husband was more cautious and asked about my energy levels. I am glad for how he keeps it real and reminds me that I am not the superwoman I often pretend to be. Despite moving through the effects of my own personal winter which often zaps so much of my energy, I am looking forward to the weekend of familiar sounds of laughter, joy and energy in the house. The virtue of unity also brought to mind the many spaces I will be in today to plan, consult and socialise. It is not an easy task interacting with others and often surprises me how drained I sometimes feel after spending time with others. Keeping the idea that it is my duty to show love and kindness to all, to strengthen overlooking the faults and shortcomings of others, is such a difficult thing for me. I have the sometimes impossible task of reigning in my ego with all its wildness and unpredictability. Last evening I was with a group reading about the Divine commandments. It was so simply put that we need to love and be kind to each other. There was no fuss or bother but just a clear directive. I see how unity is not only the outcome of our practices but it is the practice itself. I have to practice showing love to others openly in public with no fear of what may or may not be thought of by others, to love the differences between us and not to focus on them that they become a barrier to the flow of love and acceptance. I am often described by friends as having a peaceful countenance but I have a fiery side too that I work on diminishing. Unity calls me to express my peaceful qualities more and to more folks. I am to focus on the unity that is generated by the upcoming holiday and spread love liberally.