The spiritual world is like unto the phenomenal world. They
are the exact counterpart of each other. Whatever objects appear in this world
of existence are the outer pictures of the world of heaven. When we look upon
the phenomenal world, we perceive that it is divided into four seasons; one is
the season of spring, another the season of summer, another autumn and then
these three seasons are followed by winter. When the season of spring appears
in the arena of existence, the whole world is rejuvenated and finds new life.
The soul-refreshing breeze is wafted from every direction; the soul-quickening
bounty is everywhere; the cloud of mercy showers down its rain, and the sun shines
upon everything. Day by day we perceive that the signs of vegetation are all
about us. Wonderful flowers, hyacinths and roses perfume the nostrils. The
trees are full of leaves and blossoms, and the blossoms are followed by fruit.
The spring and summer are followed by autumn and winter. The flowers wither and
are no more; the leaves turn gray and life has gone. Then comes another
springtime; the former springtime is renewed; again a new life stirs within
everything.
The appearances of the Manifestations of God are the divine
springtime.
(‘Abdu’l-Baha, from a talk, 13 April 1912, New York; ‘The
Promulgation of Universal Peace’)
