These are the days of my farewell to you, for I am sailing on the fifth of
the month. Wherever I went in this country, I returned always to New York
City. This is my fourth or fifth visit here, and now I am going away to
the Orient. It will be difficult for me to visit this country again except
it be the will of God. I must, therefore, give you my instructions and
exhortations today, and these are none other than the teachings of
Baha'u'llah.
You must manifest complete love and affection toward all mankind. Do not
exalt yourselves above others, but consider all as your equals,
recognizing them as the servants of one God. Know that God is
compassionate toward all; therefore, love all from the depths of your
hearts, prefer all religionists before yourselves, be filled with love for
every race, and be kind toward the people of all nationalities. Never
speak disparagingly of others, but praise without distinction. Pollute not
your tongues by speaking evil of another. Recognize your enemies as
friends, and consider those who wish you evil as the wishers of good. You
must not see evil as evil and then compromise with your opinion, for to
treat in a smooth, kindly way one whom you consider evil or an enemy is
hypocrisy, and this is not worthy or allowable. You must consider your
enemies as your friends, look upon your evil-wishers as your well-wishers
and treat them accordingly. Act in such a way that your heart may be free
from hatred. Let not your heart be offended with anyone. If some one
commits an error and wrong toward you, you must instantly forgive him. Do
not complain of others. Refrain from reprimanding them, and if you wish to
give admonition or advice, let it be offered in such a way that it will
not burden the bearer. Turn all your thoughts toward bringing joy to
hearts. Beware! Beware! lest ye offend any heart. Assist the world of
humanity as much as possible. Be the source of consolation to every sad
one, assist every weak one, be helpful to every indigent one, care for
every sick one, be the cause of glorification to every lowly one, and
shelter those who are overshadowed by fear.
In brief, let each one of you be as a lamp shining forth with the light of
the virtues of the world of humanity. Be trustworthy, sincere,
affectionate and replete with chastity. Be illumined, be spiritual, be
divine, be glorious, be quickened of God, be a Baha'i.
2 December 1912
Talk at Home of Mr. and Mrs. Edward B. Kinney
780 West End Avenue, New York