The Bahai faith, founded by an Iranian named Bahaullah in the 19th century, is built on the principle that the world is but one country and mankind its citizens. There are only seven Bahai temples in the world, "dedicated to the worship of God, for peoples of all races, religions, or castes." The temples are all nine-sided, which signifies unity in Bahai scripture.

What this means, in practical terms, is that Bahai temples are open to anyone who wants to come in and meditate or pray silently, regardless of their beliefs. In addition, scheduled programs include reading from the teachings of Bahaullah. The temple above is in New Delhi, and the temple to the right is in Wilmette, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago.

I think the world would be a much better place if more people embraced the Bahai concept of all mankind being citizens of the same country. And I'm disappointed that the United States is not willing to give up the right to act with unilateral impunity in world affairs. This position causes much avoidable suffering around the world.