Good People Bad World

The betterment of the world can be accomplished through pure and goodly deeds, through commendable and seemly conduct.”- Bahá’u’lláh

Ask yourself if you think you’re a good person? The answer is likely yes. The concept of being a “good person” is almost universally claimed yet deeply subjective. Ask anyone if they consider themselves good, and the answer is likely yes/I try to be. Parents, when asked about their hopes for their children, often express a desire for them to grow up happy and to be a good person. Even those who commit heinous acts, such as suicide bombers, may believe they are doing something good—otherwise, why would they go to such lengths?

If all of us “good people” are inhabiting this earth, why is humanity plagued by war and divided by prejudice? In a world overflowing with wealth—far beyond what the Pharisees could have ever imagined–why do extremes of wealth and poverty persist so starkly? Why is there racism, casteism, sexism, nationalism, crass materialism…? Perhaps the issue lies not with the intention to be good but rather how we define goodness itself.
Is our current understanding of what it means to be a good person adequate and what is it being shaped by and finally, are good intentions alone good enough?

Join us as together we explore these questions and more. Although this discussion will be based on Quotes from the Baha’i Writings all respectfully shared thoughts and views are welcome regardless of background or belief.

This event is free and open to all regardless of background and belief. and will be held both on zoom and in person at 124 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL. We'd love to see you in person, but it’s also okay if you attend virtually. If that’s your preference, here’s our zoom link … https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88158217522?pwd=cGxNeDR2eCthN0k2d2tlSk1sMnViQT09