Humanity is gradually developing a more democratic way of life. Not only is democracy as a system of government becoming increasingly widespread throughout the world, but it can be seen more and more at work, at school and at home. Democracy can only work well, however, if people can consult properly together - and consultation is not as easy as one might think. The Bahá'í Faith has its own system and guidelines for consultation, and, as a gift to this conference, we would like to share some of its key ideas and encourage their use during this conference.

The Goal

The goal of consultation the Bahá'í way is to discover the best course of action to take for the well-being of all. For the purposes of this conference, then, the goal is to discover the best course of action to improve communication within families where some members cannot hear well, or cannot hear at all. If the individuals who are consulting have any other goal than this - for instance, to gain power, or win an argument - their ambitions will only get in the way and the consultation will not be completely successful in achieving its goal.

The Method

This is the procedure for Bahá'í consultation:

1. Establish the full facts;
2. Decide on the principles to be applied;
3. Discuss the matter;
4. * Make a decision.

* This step will not be part of our method, since this conference is not a decision-making body; it is the families which will need to make decisions about how they will enable good communication with one another.

Establishing the Facts

Often parliaments, committees and such fail at the beginning of consultation by not being able to agree on the facts. This is not because there are no solid facts to be found, but because the members, if they are only interested in having their own way, may reject the facts which do not suit their case.

It is our hope that facts and opinions may be expressed with dignity, and listened to with courtesy. In two and a half days, we cannot hope to "agree on the facts" but we can hope to allow one another the freedom to hear them all in a friendly atmosphere. Principles Every family member deserves to be treated with love and respect and consideration, whether they can hear well, not so well, or not at all. We are all one people.

"All these rights and prerogatives must be conserved, yet the unity of the family must be sustained. The injury of one shall be considered the injury of all; the comfort of each, the comfort of all; the honor of one, the honor of all." (Bahá'í writings)

Discussion

Bahá'í consultation calls for unity of purpose - not unity of opinion. The Bahá'í writings say that "The shining spark of truth cometh forth only after the clash of differing opinions." Note that it is the opinions which clash and not the people. Everyone should express his or her opinion with the conviction that it will contribute in some way to the discussion. Each should speak frankly, but with courtesy and moderation. No-one should be too shy to offer an idea. On the other hand, after a person has stated a point of view, it should not be repeated over and over again.

"They must in every matter search out the truth and not insist upon their own opinion, for stubbornness and persistence in one's views will lead ultimately to discord and wrangling and the truth will remain hidden." (Bahá'í writings)

Summary

Families need good information in order to make the important, and often very difficult, decisions necessary to improve their communication. When each person in the conference strives to share information and opinion with dignity, and everyone listens with courtesy, family members will have the best possible opportunity to receive the information they need.

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