'Abdu'l-Baha used often to say that the difference between a prophet and
an ordinary person is that the latter looks only to the present. He does
not try to imagine the future victories and thereby forget the present
trivial obstructions. The prophet, however, having a deep insight in the
future condition of things sees his ultimate victory and does not get
disheartened even though he sees a whole-sale massacre of his followers.
As Baha'is we should follow the prophet's method. We know that the Cause
will ultimately conquer and its ranks be fully united. We know that the
Master's promises will ultimately be realized, therefore why be
discouraged by trivial oppositions we see on our way. We should rather add
to our zeal and persist in our prayers and endeavours... It always takes
time for a people to change from one administration to another. Up to the
present they have been accustomed to think of the local assemblies as next
only to the Center of the Cause, and it will take some time and training
before they can admit another superior.
[From the Guardian:]
I have cabled to Bombay and will soon confirm it by letter. I have urged
them to support consistently and whole-heartedly the very essential and
vital institutions of the National Fund and the National Assembly. It must
be made clear to them all that continuous support to these twin
institutions is the corner-stone of all future achievements, the
mainspring from which all future blessings will flow. Persevere in your
heroic effort and remember that the end is glorious and bright.