"Tutor: I don't think any of the ideas you have described is wrong or undesirable in principle. The problem is .that referring to them as elements of a "Ruhi method" introduces rigidity into a process that is otherwise simple, joyful, and sensitive to a diversity of needs. For example, you all remember that at the beginning of Book I, a technique is used whereby the participants ask simple questions of one another. The use of this technique has a clear purpose, which is to help the participants focus on Baha'i text, But once such a habit is created, why would one continue to employ a technique that can easily become mechanical. Of course, there might be occasions now and then in other units when the technique is useful, but it should certainly not be called the "Ruhi method". What is more, it is not necessary to ask everyone to repeat the same question one after another, which would naturally only annoy them. Usually after one or two repetitions, the purpose of the exercise is achieved." (Ruhi, Book 7)
I think this is an example of participants bringing ridigity into a more flexible process; most of the Ruhi tutors I've met have not permitted this flexibility, but have stuck with the technique that annoys after over-use. I know a person who is approaching professional people and using the Ruhi books as a basis for discussion, with success. The non-Baha'i professionals like the structure and content, and the flexible and more intuitive approach to the materials is maintaining keen interest. I remember when the instructions came from the World Centre to determine the boundaries of clusters. Everybody I knew started adding complexity to the process and got it wrong except Counsellor Huerta, who saw it clearly from the start. These quotes are very helpful, thanks Max. Brent __________________________________________________ You are subscribed to Baha'i Studies as: mailto:archive@mail-archive.com To unsubscribe, send a blank email to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, use subscribe bahai-st in the message body to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Baha'i Studies is available through the following: Mail - mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Web - http://list.jccc.edu/read/?forum=bahai-st News - news://list.jccc.edu/bahai-st Public - http://www.escribe.com/religion/bahaist Old Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.net New Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.edu
