…you who are in Europe, do not be discouraged because you
are few or because people think that your Cause is of no importance. If few
people come to your gatherings do not lose heart, and if you are ridiculed and
contradicted be not distressed, for the apostles of Christ had the same to
bear. They were reviled and persecuted, cursed and ill-treated, but in the end
they were victorious and their enemies were found to be wrong.
If history should repeat itself and all these same things
should happen to you, do not be saddened but be full of joy, and thank God that
you are called upon to suffer as holy men of old suffered. If they oppose you
be gentle with them, if they contradict be firm in your faith, if they desert
you and flee from before you, seek them out and treat them kindly. Do harm to
nobody; pray for all; try to make your light shine in the world and let your
banner fly high in the Heavens. The beautiful perfume of your noble lives will
permeate everywhere. The light of truth kindled in your hearts will shine out to
the distant horizon!
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (From a talk; ‘Paris Talks: Addresses given
by 'Abdu'l-Bahá in Paris in 1911-1912’)
