How Can We Better Understand Freedom, the Value of Values?

Is not freedom, today, the value of values … the #1 object of modern life? It is a concept invoked by virtually everyone, incessantly – as if it is, in point of fact, the very purpose that governs human existence. Many spend their lives in pursuit of more and more money, and why?... to gain and increase their freedom. Many spend their lives in pursuit of status and influence. Why?... the sense of superiority that comes with status is perceived to confer upon us more freedom. Freedom, according to this modern logic, provides us with more possibilities and, in theory at least, total freedom will provide us with an unlimited set of possibilities. But, has anyone ever asked, seriously – freedom to do exactly what? Is freedom really an end in itself, an idea in which we’ve all been socially conditioned, or is freedom of choice a means to a higher end, a loftier purpose that transcends “what I want”? In this conversation our aim will be to unravel some of the mysteries that surround the concept of freedom, as together we seek to place freedom within the broad context of life’s true purpose. In this exploration we will be guided by the sacred Writings of the Baha’i Faith, the most recent of the world’s independent religions. Its mission, as proclaimed by the Faith’s Prophet-Founder, Baha’u’llah (which, in Arabic, means “Glory of God”), is to gradually bring the all of humanity within a state of unity that, over time, will allow the whole of humankind to progress toward material and spiritual prosperity. Consistent with the Baha’i principle of unity, all people, and each voice – from every religion, nationality, culture, gender, race, ethnicity, and social class – is welcome in this space…

“... the purpose for which mortal men have, from utter nothingness, stepped into the realm of being, is that they may work for the betterment of the world and live together in concord and harmony.” Baha’i Writings

We would love to see you in person, and we understand if you would like to attend but can only participate via zoom. For you, here’s a link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88158217522?pwd=cGxNeDR2eCthN0k2d2tlSk1sMnViQT09