subject of Esperanto; it should be made clear to the
believers that while the teaching of that language has been repeatedly
encouraged by 'Abdu'l-Baha, there is no reference either from Him or from
Baha'u'llah that can make us believe that it will necessarily develop into
the international auxiliary language of the future. Baha'u'llah has
specified in His Writings that such a language will either have to be
chosen from one of the existing languages, or an entirely new one should
be created to serve as a medium of exchange between the nations and
peoples of the world. Pending this final choice, the Baha'is are advised
to study Esperanto only in consideration of the fact that the learning of
this language can considerably facilitate intercommunication between
individuals, groups and Assemblies throughout the Baha'i world in the
present stage of the evolution of the Faith."

68: EVOLUTION, MAN'S

"You have asked as to what point in man's evolution he becomes conscious
of self. This consciousness of self in man is a gradual process, and does
not start at a definite point. It grows in him in this world and continues
to do so in the future spiritual world.

"Man can certainly recall past experiences in his evolution, and even when
his soul leaves this world it will still remember the past."

69: FAMILY TIES, SPIRITUAL TIES (VS.)

"Deep as are family ties, we must always remember that the spiritual ties
are far deeper; they are everlasting and survive death, whereas physical
ties, unless supported by spiritual bonds, are confined to this life. You
should do all in your power, through prayer and example, to open the eyes
of your family to the Baha'i Faith, but do not grieve too much over their
actions. Turn to your Baha'i brothers and sisters who are living with you
in the Light of the Kingdom.

"Indeed, the believers have not yet fully learned to draw on each other's
strength and consolation in time of need. The Cause of God is endowed with
tremendous powers, and the reason the believers do not gain more from it
is because they have not learned to draw fully on these mighty forces of
love and strength and harmony generated by the Faith."

70: FAST (NECESSARY PERMISSION FOR)

"With reference to your son's request for advice regarding the observance
of the Baha'i Fast; much as the Guardian realizes the difficulty which a
believer of his position, attending a military school, will have to
enc