When we speak of reconciliation, we are referring to the movement towards peace and unity, and the individual and collective transformation that is required in order to achieve that goal. Reconciliation involves a process that contributes to the achievement of progressively greater degrees of unity and trust. Fundamentally, reconciliation is a spiritual process. It is the process of realizing the essential oneness of humanity in all dimensions of human life.
The pursuit of reconciliation cannot be based upon prejudiced attitudes, achieved through legislation, or undertaken out of fear. It requires engaging with one another in a spirit of selfless love, where misunderstandings are overcome through patient and respectful dialogue, and cultural differences provide an occasion to learn from one another. The Bahá’í teachings call on us to “shut your eyes to estrangement, then fix your gaze upon unity.” We should “not be content with showing friendship in words alone,” rather, our hearts should “burn with loving kindness for all who may cross your path.”
To achieve this goal of unity and reconciliation, we recognize that social divisions need to be healed. We are all part of the same human family. This vision of oneness, and an appreciation of the beauty of our diversity, can guide a process of healing.
Excerpt – Submission of the Baha’i Community of Canada to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. visit www.squamishbahais.com/blog
https://opa.bahai.ca/files/uploads/1.-2013-submission-to-the-truth-and-reconciliation-commission.pdf