Ye are the pearls of the Sea of Oneness! Consider ye the pearl: Its purity and fineness are qualities inherent in itself. Were one to wrap it in the finest silks, they would but hide from view its delicacy and lustre. Its beauty is within itself. Strive, then, to acquire this beauty, and grieve not at lacking this world’s material benefits.

Bahá’u’lláh, Bahá’í Sacred Writings. Available from www.bahai.org/r/994000541