Posted by Jason Ross (24.209.152.13) on November 10, 2003 at 18:03:51:

In Reply to: "window of oppurtunity" in regards to conversion posted by Omid on November 10, 2003 at 15:11:20:

I am not speaking as an expert but only from what I know of the Writings and limited experience. Being an effective teacher for Baha'u'llah begins with the teacher him/herself.

"The first thing to do is to acquire a thirst for Spirituality, the Live the Life! Live the Life Live the Life!"
(Abdul-Baha, the Importance of Deepening)

Living the life is the most important teaching tool. As people observe you, they will notice something special. If you freely and comfortably asscociate with all races of people, then you are teaching without words. You should attempt to demonstrate the fruit of your religion. If people see that it works and brings you real joy, then perhaps they will try it. Being in college, not drinking alcohol is enough to attact attention.

Secondly, an effective teacher should have important quotations from the Holy Books memorized.

"So potent is Their influence that the hearer will have no cause for vacillation."

(Tablets of Baha'u'llah, p198)

From experience, using the Words of Baha'u'llah during an explanation of His Faith brings a "magical" power. What should you memorize? Try to think of who you would speak to and attempt memorizing a sentence or two appropriate to that person(s).
For example, I have spoken with many muslims. Some have been hostile and others very friendly. For them, I have found an effective tool. I recite, in Arabic, the "Remover of Difficulties". Without fail, any hostility is diffused and the muslim seems to gain a good impression of the Faith. That's the power and value of using the Word to teach.

Finally, I think that you are in the best position to judge what is appropriate for seekers around you. Have you considered writing a pamphlet yourself? It's not hard to do with the technology that we have and you could almost guarantee that the information will be relevant to your audience. I knew a Bahai that wrote a pamphlet for his "sci-fi" friends. In it, he included quotatations about the "worlds of God", "every star hath its planet", etc. If you know students who are trying to be teachers or doctors, you could share what the Bahai Writings have to say about those professions.

I wouldn't worry about the results of your valiant efforts. Don't be discouraged if a seeker is not reading a Book you offered. He/She is probably very busy but will keep the Book. Sooner or later, your good deeds will be fruitful. Keep up the good work!

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