...the young Bahá'ís in every city should make a point of
keeping in touch with local youth activities and clubs, and endeavouring to
make their views known to as many young people in as many ways as possible.
Above all they should set a high example to them; chastity, politeness,
friendliness, hospitality, joyous optimism about the ultimate future happiness
and well-being of mankind, should distinguish them and win over to them the
love and admiration of their fellow youth. The thing which is most
conspicuously lacking in modern life is a high standard of conduct and good
character; the young Bahá'ís must demonstrate both, if they hope to seriously
win over to the Faith members of their own generation, so sorely disillusioned
and so contaminated by the laxity war gives rise to.
- Shoghi Effendi (From a letter written on
behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 20 October 1945 to the National Youth Committee of
the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States and Canada; The
Compilation of Compilations, vol. I, Excellence in All Things)
