The ones in real authority are known by their humility and
self-sacrifice and show no attitude of superiority over the friends. Some time
ago a tablet was written stating that none are appointed to any authority to do
anything but to serve the Cause as true servants of the friends - and for this
no tablet is necessary; such service when true and unselfish, requires no
announcement, nor following, nor written document. Let the servant be known by
his deeds, by his life! To be approved of God alone should be one's aim.
- 'Abdu'l-Baha (Words of 'Abdu'l-Baha in response to questions by Dr. Getsinger during his pilgrimage in 1905; Star of the West, vol. 6, no.6; Compilation: Lights of Guidance)
