The chosen ones of God ... should not look at the depraved
condition of the society in which they live, nor at the evidences of moral
degradation and frivolous conduct which the people around them display. They should
not content themselves merely with relative distinction and excellence. Rather
they should fix their gaze upon nobler heights by setting the counsels and
exhortations of the Pen of Glory as their supreme goal. Then it will be readily
realized how numerous are the stages that still remain to be traversed and how
far off the desired goal lies -- a goal which is none other than exemplifying
heavenly morals and virtues.
- Shoghi Effendi (From a letter dated 30 October 1924 written by
Shoghi Effendi to the Local Spiritual Assembly of Tihran, translated from the
Persian; The Compilation of Compilations, vol. I, A Chase and Holy Life)
