Asiyih Modarai Haghbin
Shaker Heights, Ohio
The Bahá’í children from northeast Ohio organized a celebration of the life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to commemorate the centenary of His Ascension. The celebration was held November 27, 2021 at a local library in the greater Cleveland area. Around 30 people attended — half were children and youth.
When guests arrived some of the children passed out copies of a talk that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá gave while in Cleveland in 1912. They also passed out chocolate coins to remember how ‘Abdu’l-Bahá always had sweets & coins to give to children.
Attendees were asked to add their handprints to a mural inspired by the quote “let your heart burn with loving kindness for all who may cross your path”.
The program included a beautiful introduction to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá by Zaynab and Vargha Twaddell and music performed by Joshua Patton. He sang a poem by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá “Make Haste to Love” as well as the song “At all Times.”
The younger children shared the poem “His Kind Heart” by Celeste Finn. They decorated the illustrations from the poem and came up with a little song and dance for parts of it. They then sang a prayer for children by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and ended their portion with a song written by Joshua Patton called “In Unity.”
The older children and junior youth each shared a story about ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. From the story about the sheep, to stories about caring for the poor, to stories about sacrifice, many attributes of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá were celebrated!
The program closed with all the children singing “Look at Me, Follow Me” while three junior youth accompanied them on the violin and guitar. During the song, a beautiful slideshow with pictures of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá played in the background.
After the program ended, everyone enjoyed snacks and playing with balloons. Guests were sent home with a rose in honor of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, who frequently gave people flowers during His many travels.
The children shared their love for ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in such pure and touching ways. It was a lovely event! Everyone enjoyed celebrating ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s life and being together in person in love and harmony.
