Thoughts About an Archived Item

Last night, when I went to a special anniversary celebration at the Los Angeles Baha'i Center, I had a chance to view a collection of archived items. One item on display was the hand woven gown worn by Abdu'l-Baha. One could see, by looking at that gown just how short in stature Abdu'l-Baha was. Still, many people referred to him as "the Master."

Abdu'l-Baha displayed well the virtue that I repeatedly struggle to develop, the virtue of assertiveness. He knew how to project his voice without assuming an agressive stance. He understood how to go about making his point to others. He could get others to listen to him, even when he did not share speak their language.

Thorton Chase, one of the first American Baha'is, and a resident of Los Angeles had looked forward to seeing Abdu'l-Baha during the Master's visit to the United States. Unfortunately, he died just days before Abdu'l-Baha arrived on the west coast. After hearing about the passing of Thorton Chase, Abdu'l-Baha traveled down to Inglewood, so that he could attend the funeral.

Abdu'l-Baha encouraged the Baha'is of Los Angeles to hold a memoraial service every year at the gravesite of Thorton Chase. I plan to attend such a service this year on Sunday, Sept. 27th.