As an example of the methods of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s teaching: My father

As an example of the methods of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s teaching: My father was having difficulty

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understanding this matter of Detachment. Just what were we supposed to become detached from? We were taught not to become isolated and detached as were the monks in a monastery. It was also an obligation to work and support those dependent upon us. So where did detachment fit into this picture? One day Father asked ‘Abdu’l-Bahá about all this. They were walking up Broadway after a meeting and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá made no answer.

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After walking a few blocks, Father repeated his question. Still no answer. They reached 76th Street, where the Kinneys lived and turned left to West End Avenue. As they mounted the outside steps, Father asked for the third time. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá reached the front door, opened it, and started up the inner stair to His room, Father pattering along after. They reached the second floor, and turned on up to the third, Father following doggedly.

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‘Abdu’l-Bahá entered His room with Father close on His heels. And there the Master turned. "Mistair Ives," He asked gently, "Are you interested in detachment?" Father, his face scarlet, was silent. He couldn't say he was and he wouldn't say he wasn't.

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