I like the idea of writing this blog. I like to write. And putting my thoughts on paper and reflecting back upon it has enabled tremendous growth. The irony is 6 months ago I was concerned about my fathers progress. Not for an instant thinking about my own. If you would have told me 5 years ago, that “5 years from now you’ll go through a huge growth spurt,” I would have thought you’re crazy. If you go back and read my prior blogs about my understanding of the Baha’i writings on the subject of obedience and service to one’s parents, you’d see me come to the realization that in serving my father, I’ve really been serving myself. Not to mention, the blessing that my descendants and ancestors receive from MY obedience to the laws of Baha’u’llah. Without going into some mystical tirade – my children will benefit from my efforts to heal my relationships with my parents. Not just because their grandparents will play more active roles in their lives, but the wisdom and insight and compassion and understanding I’ve had to hone with my parents, will better able me to support and rear my children (and their children).
“The son... must show forth the utmost obedience towards his father, and should conduct himself as a humble and a lowly servant. Day and night he should seek diligently to ensure the comfort and welfare of his loving father and to secure his good pleasure. He must forgo his own rest and enjoyment and constantly strive to bring gladness to the hearts of his father and mother, that thereby he may attain the good pleasure of the Almighty and be graciously aided by the hosts of the unseen.” Abdul Baha
The first time I read this, I thought, “oh great.” I’ve had a few people say some REALLY nice things when they hear about me helping dad. Most of the things they say are more than what I really deserve. But rather than take away from the compliment, I’ve strived to be more worthy of the praise. Then this quote hits me. Here I am, already doing the “best” I can, thinking I have a role of a “wonderful son” to live up to. Knowing full well, that I’m not that “wonderful son.” Then I read the quote. But after reading it a few times, the last part of the sentence starts to wink at me.
When I said earlier, “that in serving my father, I’ve really been serving myself,” I meant that in a very practical sense. The truth is, I enjoy spending time with him. The last blog I wrote was written from beginning to end in laughter. And the blessings it has on my own (future) family, and my relations with my co-workers and my friends is very evident. But Abdul Baha says that serving my parents will make me “graciously aided by the hosts of the unseen.” Not Hosts, to imply God or Baha’u’llah. Lowercase hosts. Other people, who through God’s Divine Plan, sometimes unbeknownst to themselves, in a gracious manner are put into our lives to assist us.
The last few weeks, I’ve put much energy into the recognition of those hosts of the unseen. And though, in reality, I won’t be able to fully understand who, what, where and when I receive that grace, but I’ve felt compelled to put forth that effort of acknowledging those special people in my life and thank them for assisting me, graciously.
PHEW!
Dad’s started driving again. That’s been a huge liberation for him. He had a few days of freedom before getting on a plane and going to AZ. My uncle lives in Tucson. He has a nice pool, and so far everyday my dad has been taking advantage of it. Swimming is a great exercise and that dry heat is good for old people (not really sure why). He’ll be back in a week. In the meantime, I took advantage of his absence and had a crew come over and gut his place. We’re sanding and polishing the floors, painting ceiling, walls, kitchen, cabinets, bathroom… and installing some crown moldings and window frames. I look forward to making the place brighter and more vivid for him when he returns. I invite all of you come visit us in the newly remodeled place. And while you’re at it, visit your own fathers. Whether in service to the living, or prayers for the dead, ensure their comfort and welfare. Thousands of people are waiting to graciously aid you.
No comments:
Post a Comment