Those persons who are selected to serve the public, or are
appointed to administrative positions, should perform their duties in a spirit
of true servitude and ready compliance. That is to say, they should be
distinguished by their goodly disposition and virtuous character, content
themselves with their allotted remuneration, and act with trustworthiness in
all their doings. They should keep themselves aloof from unworthy motives, and
be far removed above covetous designs; for rectitude, probity and righteousness
are among the most potent means for attracting the grace of God and securing
both the prosperity of the country and the welfare of the people. Glory and
honour for man are not to be found in fortunes and riches, least of all in
those which have been unlawfully amassed through extortion, embezzlement and
corruption practised at the expense of an exploited populace. Supreme honour,
nobility and greatness in the human world, and true felicity in this life and
the life to come -- all consist in equity and uprightness, sanctity and
detachment. If a man would seek distinction, he should suffice himself with a
frugal provision, seek to better the lot of the poor of the realm, choose the
way of justice and fair-mindedness, and tread the path of high-spirited
service. Such a one, needy though he be, shall win imperishable riches and
attain unto everlasting honour.
(‘Abdu’l-Baha, from a Tablet; The Compilation
of Compilations, vol. I, Trustworthiness: A Cardinal Bahá'í Virtue)
