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From Slavery to Celebrity
Posted By CATHY PELLETIER , CHRONICLE STAFF WRITER
www.dunnvillechronicle.com THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2009
A mini portrait of Shirlee Smith shares space on a poster beside Barack Obama. A former victim of racial prejudice, Smith was profiled with the first African American President after she won third prize in a contest entitled, "What black history means to me."
She subsequently appeared on the front page of the National Post and on Global News, and has speak about triumph over adversity. "Having endured a lot of prejudice growing up," stated contest literature, "she never thought she would see the day when black history was celebrated."
A personal friend of Toronto's Mayor Hazel McCallion, Smith was invited to the Dunnville Library recently, where she shared her fascinating ancestry with the town's Baha'i community. Her grandfather, Abraham, was born into slavery in Georgia after his African mother was brought to the U. S. on the crowded hold of a slave ship.
"They put all the slaves in a pen and Mr. Hollingsworth was one of the people who was buying slaves and he bought Abraham's mother because she was pretty," said Smith. "One of the first things he did was take her to his bed, and Abraham was born."
Hollingsworth didn't provide proper shoes for his slaves to prevent their escape. "He told them that when they went to heaven, they would get shoes." Meanwhile, the slaves were constantly singing about heaven, which was code for Canada, where they hoped to escape via the Underground Railroad. "He could hear them singing in the cotton fields about getting shoes in heaven."
Smith explained how the Ojibway Indians and some white people helped Abraham escape slavery by "wading along the side of the river, and after a couple weeks they got to Canada. One of the first things he got was shoes."
Abraham promptly fell in love with one of the Ojibway who helped him. At the time, the government was giving natives a parcel of land, and Abraham received some land in Stouffville, said Smith, where he was also given permission to marry the native girl. After giving birth to six children, she died, and Abraham later fell in love with a nanny named Martha, who was part Cree and part African. They wed and had another six children before Abraham died. Their youngest daughter was Myrtle, who went to Toronto, according to Smith, "because there weren't any black boys in Stouffville, and she heard there were black men in Toronto. She met Elvin, whose parents had come from Barbados, and escaped the cruelty there towards blacks at the time." Elvin's father was a minister who had helped form the British Methodist Episcopal Church in Ontario.
Elvin and Myrtle moved to an overcrowded rooming house on Spadina Ave. in Toronto, and when Myrtle became pregnant, she announced she would give birth at the nearby Women's College Hospital, despite the fact that no black women had been allowed to do so before. When Myrtle went into labour, she knocked on the hospital's door and said, "I want to have my baby here." When staff told her to go away, she said, "Let me in, or I'm going to have my baby on the doorstep." It was January, and as her labour progressed, she began screaming, until staff took her down to the basement, where she delivered her baby.
Shirlee Smith was that baby.
"The Toronto Star took pictures and made a big deal of it," said Smith, adding that her mother also entered her in a baby contest at the CNE, in which she won second prize.
Later, Myrtle gave birth to quadruplets, of which only two survived, and Smith said she and her family spent most of their time searching for something to eat. "My mom showed me how to look through garbage pails for food," she said, adding that her dad was in the first jazz band in Toronto, "but back in those days of WWII, there wasn't a great need for a jazz band player, especially a black one."
Myrtle decided to walk from Toronto to Stouffville to ask her mother, Martha, for help. On the way, she collapsed and asked the people who found her to go find her children.
"They took us to Children's Aid and we became foster children," said Smith. "We called them Aunt Mary and Uncle Tiny, and they were one of the few black couples in Toronto who were taking foster children."
Smith and her siblings lived on DeGrassi Street, where "most people had never seen black people," she said, in those days before television. "Kids came up to me and tried to wipe the colour off my face, and the teacher sat me down in the middle of a circle and pulled out a copy of Little Black Sambo, and told the kids I was from Africa." Classmates began calling her Little Black Sambo, setting a social pattern for Smith, who endured constant racism throughout her school career.
"When I got to high school, it was even worse," she said, of Danforth Technical School. "Being a girl, and being a black girl, they thought there was something wrong with me, but I went anyway and I was the only girl and the only black student. I wanted to learn about science."
In restaurants and other public places; even at church, Smith said she wasn't exempt from blatant racism. After being spotted having lunch with a white boy by a member of her own congregation, Smith was punished the following Sunday at church. "They made me get down on my hands and knees and pray for forgiveness in front of everyone," she recalled. To top it off, "the minister made a pass at me because he figured I was a bad girl," she said, adding, "Black girls who went out with white boys were considered bad. So the next Sunday I decided to go to the white Baptist church around the corner from my house. They took their prayer books and moved to another row, because they weren't going to sit in the same row as me."
After marrying a man named Marcus and moving to his homeland of Bermuda, Smith taught English grammar in a boys' school, at a time "when Kennedy and Castro were fighting over the Bay of Pigs, and lots of Christians thought it was the end of the world, but I didn't believe it."
Then she met a man who spoke about the unity of mankind, and "he showed me pictures of people from all over the world with all different colours and textures" said Smith, adding that in 1964 she became a member of the Baha'i faith.
Now retired, Smith enjoys talking to students and teachers "about different cultures and how people don't understand we can all celebrate Christmas and other holidays together. We have to learn to love each other."
Interspersed with her story, she sang various tunes, inviting others to join her in We Are Flowers of One Garden, and Put A Little Love In Your Heart.
Further information about Smith's story is available at www.globaltvontario.com


Finally, it was the Love of God that gave to the East by Bah'u'llh, and is now sending the light of His teachings far into the West, and from Pole to Pole. Thus I exhort each of you, realizing its power and beauty, to sacrifice all your thoughts, words and actions to bring the knowledge of the Love of God into every heart.

Abdu'l-Baha
Selections from the Writings of Abdu'l-Baha, p. 230

We live in a time when God's help is crucial<o:p></o:p>

Chapter and Verse<o:p></o:p>

By Phil Wood<o:p></o:p>

As we look at the problems in the world, can there be any doubt that humankind is in dire need of guidance from our Creator?

The last century was the bloodiest in history. More people were killed than in all previous wars combined. We released the awesome power to destroy entire cities with a single explosion in a matter of minutes. We live in the shadow of this event today.<o:p></o:p>

It is possible in this town and many others like it across the country to ignore the news and live in relative peace and security. Most of us have adequate shelter, clothes and lots of food.

Worldwide, the situation is much different. We are involved in two wars, with eleven armed conflicts and millions dying of hunger. According to World Bank estimates, 1.4 billion people, 4 1/2 times the population of the <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">United States</st1:place></st1:country-region>, live on less than $1.25 per day.

Can the need for new guidance, a new revelation, be seriously questioned? Some would say that all we need to do is follow the religions we already have. In this part of the world, the religion is Christianity. Where is there a model Christian community to serve as an example for a peaceful world? If it does exist, it is hidden under a bushel.

Jesus said, "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword" (Matthew 10:34).

Baha'is believe that the guidance needed to bring world peace, a new revelation, has occurred through Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i faith. In a little over 150 years, the religion has grown to be the second most widely spread religion in the world. The central message is one of unity - the unity of humankind and the unity of religion.

The administrative structure of the Baha'i world community is an essential part of the revelation of Baha'u'llah and is intended to serve as a model for a future world civilization. This new revelation is the most important event in all of history. It ushers in the next stage in the social evolution of society.

The immediate response of most people I talk to about this new revelation is a rather quizzical look. Few would say it directly, but their look conveys the thought that it cannot possibly be true. If it were true, and really important, they would have heard about it on the news, or would have been told by their minister or priest.

Every new revelation has started with rejection by the established religion. Rejection is followed by persecution, imprisonment, martyrdom and finally acceptance. Christianity and Islam are the most recent examples.

Baha'is invite you to investigate the new guidance provided by Baha'u'llah.

Phil Wood has been a Baha'i since 1962 and has served on numerous local and national Baha'i councils. He may be contacted at pwood1937@gmail.com.
Monday, August 10, 2009<o:p></o:p>

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That is why His Highness the Christ said: "I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit, when He, the Spirit of the Comforter, who is sent by the Father, is come, He will guide you into all truth." Therefore, in this age of lights, specific teachings have become universal, in order that the outpouring of the Merciful One environ both the East and the West, the oneness of the kingdom of humanity become visible and the luminosity of truth enlighten the world of consciousness. The descent of the New Jerusalem is the heavenly religion which secures the prosperity of the human world and is the effulgence of the illumination of the realm of God.<o:p></o:p>

(Abdu'l-Baha, Baha'i World Faith - Abdu'l-Baha Section, p. 380)<o:p></o:p>

Why Does God Permit Evil To Exist?<o:p></o:p>

Last Tuesday, a small gathering in the Garfield Disher Room of the library examined what seems to be a rather perplexing question. The speaker, Betty Frost, affirmed that it had been a problem to many people, especially when considering terrible events such as the Holocaust; the horrifying details of warfare and personal tragedy.<o:p></o:p>

The speaker defined evil as "that which violates or leads to the violation of moral law; anything causing injury or harm". Since moral law originates from the Teachings of God through His Messengers, it may seem strange that we so often see moral law totally ignored.<o:p></o:p>

In so many religions, if not all of them, it is stated that we have been created in the image and likeness of God. In other words, we have potentially within us love, understanding, compassion, caring for others and forgiveness. So why should we see so much negativism?<o:p></o:p>

To me the answer is rather simple. In addition to receiving what we term are the "good qualities", we have also been given the priceless gift of "free will". What if we didn't have this gift? Many years ago, my young son of about six said to me: "Mummy -are we puppets. Does God move us around with string?" Fortunately we are not robots!<o:p></o:p>

For a number of people, the existence of evil is personified by Satan - usually portrayed as an evil figure complete with pitchfork and horns! We used to hear, "The Devil made me do it." absolving ourselves from all responsibilities of our actions. However, as many people now accept, and especially Baha'is, "Satan" is a symbol for the lower self or the ego which places our own needs, and desires above everything else.<o:p></o:p>

Baha'u'llah, Founder of the Baha'i Faith said: "Upon the inmost reality of every created thing He <God> shed the light of one of His names and made it a recipient of the glory of one of His names. Upon the reality of man, however, He hath focussed the radiance of all of His names and attributes and made it a mirror of His own Self. Alone of all created things man hath been singled out for so great a favor, so enduring a bounty." (GWB 65) When we think of this great gift, how can we believe that He has willed us to be evil? There is a an example close to home about this very question. As parents we strive to give our children the best -through setting an example, in helping in the development of their character and even in material gifts. Supposing a parent gives his son a Swiss army knife for use in his camping trips as a Boy Scout. Many years later, if he became furious with someone and killed him with that knife, could the parents blamed for "permitting evil?" No, they did everything possible to guide their child on the right path. It was his choice to use the knife wrongly. God gives us the example of the lives of His Messengers; helps in the development of our character through their Teachings and gives us material and spiritual gifts. If we use them in the wrong way, can we place the blame on God?<o:p></o:p>

'Abdu'l-Baha said: "In creation there is no evil all is good. Certain qualities and natures innate in some men and apparently blameworthy are not so in reality. For example, from the beginning of his life you can see in a nursing child the signs of greed, of anger and of temper. Then, it may be said, good and evil are innate in the reality of man, and this is contrary to the pure goodness of nature and creation. The answer to this is that greed, which is to ask for something more, is a praiseworthy quality provided that is used suitably. So if a man is greedy to acquire science and knowledge, or to become compassionate, generous and just it is praiseworthy. If he exercises his anger and wrath against the bloodthirsty tyrants who are like ferocious beasts, it is very praiseworthy, but if he does not use these qualities in a right way, they are blameworthy. Another explanation was given abut one of the most blameworthy attributes of man - lying. He gave an example of a Doctor vising a sick patient and comforting him by saying that he seemed better and there was hope of his recovery. This may be contrary to the truth, but it could be of help to the patient. We've probably all experienced this anomaly. How many of us in visiting a patient would say: "My goodness, you look terrible."<o:p></o:p>

A positive desire for love, joy and even ecstacy can be turned into something negative. Should we not find these feelings in everyday life, we may turn to "instant ecstacy" through drugs or alcohol. Or perhaps we continuously seek the magic of "first love" through constantly changing partners, searching for perfection. Perhaps this search is a beacon pointing us in the direction of what is termed "the seas of My <God's> loving-kindness and bounty moving within you."<o:p></o:p>

What should be our response to what we perceive as evil? I think we can derive a clue from the well-known prayer said at AA meetings: "God: Grant me the serenity to accept the things which I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference." Faults within ourselves we can change providing we can honestly acknowledge them, strive to overcome them and use the power of prayer to give us this strength. We cannot change the attitudes or actions of others -only try to help through example and love (and with children, guidance). What about some things we cannot change at all?<o:p></o:p>

A <st1:placename w:st="on">Hindu</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Temple</st1:placetype> was set on fire in <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Hamilton</st1:place></st1:city> just after 9/11 by people who thought it was a Muslim Mosque and wanted to punish that religion for the action of some of its followers. Leaders in the Jewish, Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Muslim, Baha'i and other religions came together to talk about concrete ways they could speak out. They commissioned a poster "An Attack on One is an Attack on us All" and a few days later, another poster featuring thirteen religions, each of which had the "Golden Rule" as one of is basic teachings. They also planned to raise money to restore the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Hindu</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Temple</st1:placetype></st1:place>; and to hold some joint services in each other's place of worship.<o:p></o:p>

Baha'i Writings: "True liberty consisteth in obedience unto My <God's> commandments, little as ye know it." We have the free will to do what is considered evil -to hate, to be cruel, to be ruled by the ego. But we also have the free will to feel kindness, happiness, love, selflessness and joy by simply following His commandments.<o:p></o:p>

BETTY FROST www.dunnvillechronicle.com June 17, 2009<o:p></o:p>

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About sixty years ago Bah'u'llh appeared upon the eastern horizon. He caused love and unity to become manifest among these antagonistic peoples. He united them with the bond of love; their former hatred and animosity passed away; love and unity reigned instead. It was a dark world; it became radiant. A new springtime appeared through him, for the Sun of Truth had risen again. In the fields and meadows of human hearts variegated flowers of inner significance were blooming and the good fruits of the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placetype w:st="on">kingdom</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename w:st="on">God</st1:placename></st1:place> became manifest.<o:p></o:p>

I have come here with this mission; that through your endeavors, through your heavenly morals, through your devoted efforts a perfect bond of unity and love may be established between the east and the west, so that the bestowals of God may descend upon all and that all may be seen to be the parts of the same tree, -- the great tree of the human family. For mankind may be likened to the branches, leaves, blossoms and fruit of that tree.<o:p></o:p>

(Abdu'l-Baha, Baha'i World Faith - Abdu'l-Baha Section, p. 219)<o:p></o:p>

President Barack Obama delivered a speech yesterday during the Notre Dame Graduation commencement ceremony that was rife with heretical views of Christianity.<o:p></o:p>

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"It is obvious from Obama's speech that matters pertaining to religion and moral issues are still above his pay grade," said Operation Rescue President Troy Newman. "As an ordained elder in the Presbyterian Church in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region>, I can say with conviction that Obama holds apostate views on the roll of Christianity in the world and the moral issues that spring from those teachings such as, abortion, stem cell research, and other matters."<o:p></o:p>

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Obama told the 2009 graduating class of Notre Dame that of the problems facing the world today, "no one person, or religion, or nation can meet these challenges alone."<o:p></o:p>

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This statement is in direct contradiction to orthodox Christianity which teaches that Christians are the "light on the hilltop" that illuminates society with the wisdom of God, apart which there can be no answers to the world's problems.<o:p></o:p>

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Obama urged those who disagree on abortion to "work together to reduce the number of women seeking abortions by reducing unintended pregnancies, and making adoption more available, and providing care and support for women who do carry their child to term."<o:p></o:p>

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Yet, Obama's policies of providing tax-funding for abortion here in this nation and abroad only work to encourage and increase abortion. In fact, the ones who are currently working to do the things recommended by Obama are almost exclusively Christian pro-life groups.<o:p></o:p>

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Obama further stated, "Let's honor the conscience of those who disagree with abortion, and draft a sensible conscience clause..." But Obama has threatened to eliminate the conscience clause that would allow doctors and hospitals to refuse to commit abortions based on religious convictions.<o:p></o:p>

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Obama referred to "Open Hearts. Open minds. Fair-minded words."<o:p></o:p>

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"Obama would have Americans open their hearts and minds to the shedding of innocent blood, and would cloak the slaughter of innocent children in 'fair-minded' words," said Newman. "Yet the Bible teaches us that we should rescue those who are being led to the slaughter and give practical assistance to those who are in need. Obama attempts to deceive the people into thinking that we should, for the sake of unity, turn a blind eye to greater evil of abortion to focus on social programs that do not solve the root problem of decriminalized child-killing in our nation."<o:p></o:p>

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"If there was one phrase to describe Obama's presentation at Notre Dame it would be 'apostate hypocrisy,'" said Newman. "Obama should refrain from making comments on religious and moral matters and should confine his remarks to subjects with which he has more familiarity."<o:p></o:p>

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Operation Rescue is one of the leading pro-life Christian activist organizations in the nation.Operation Rescue recently made headlines when it bought and closed an abortion clinic in <st1:city w:st="on">Wichita</st1:city>, <st1:state w:st="on">Kansas</st1:state> and has become the voice of the pro-life activist movement in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region>. Its activities are on the cutting edge of the abortion issue, taking direct action to restore legal personhood to the pre-born and stop abortion in obedience to biblical mandates. Click here to support Operation Rescue.<o:p></o:p>

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Cheryl Sullenger www.christiannewswire.com May 18, 2009 <o:p></o:p>

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Trust all to God. The lights of God are resplendent. The blessed epistles are spreading. The blessed teachings are promulgated throughout the east and west. Soon you will see that the heavenly words have established the oneness of the world of humanity. The banner of the Most Great Peace has been unfurled and the "great community" is appearing.<o:p></o:p>

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(Abdu'l-Baha, Baha'i World Faith - Abdu'l-Baha Section, p. 224)<o:p></o:p>