Brilliant Star/Volume 39/Issue 1/Text

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A BAHA'I COMPANION FOR YOUNG EXPLORERS MARCH/APRIL 2007



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Gail of Love



“Hoist the sail of love upon the ark of peace that moveth across the seas of life. Let nothing grieve thee, and be thou angered at none.” —Abdu'l-Baha

nchors aweigh! When the wind hits your

sails, your boat skims across the sparkling

blue sea. Like the wind, God’s love is all around us. We can ask God to fill our hearts with love, like the wind fills a sail. With this love, we can see the good in others and be a friend to everyone.

Cy) Accepting \ Anchor ;


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Bountiful Charitable Courteous Binoculars Chart Cooler





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Find these supplies for a peaceful voyage on the 5.V. Harmony.

Reliable Rope

You put love into action when you cooperate as one unified crew. You might be cleaning the yard with your family, working on a play with classmates at school, or helping your soccer team score. When you reach out and choose unity, your days can be smooth sailing.



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Forgiving First Aid Kit




Faithful Flag

Responsible Radio

Trustworthy Toolbox





Brilliant Star ¢ MARCH/APRIL 2007



[Page 1]“Bahu ‘lldh. .. made a design for the uniting of all the peoples, and for the gathering of them all under the shelter of the tent of universal unity.” —‘Abdu’l-Baha

uring the 10 years Baha’u’llah De in Baghdad, Iraq, He became an honored member of the community. But the government and religious leaders feared Baha’u'llah’s growing influence. In April 1863, they had Him banished to Constantinople (now Istanbul, Turkey). Baha’u'llah’s followers were heartbroken at the thought of His departure. Friends crowded around His home, weeping with sadness. To make room for His visitors, Baha’u’llah moved to a garden that became known as the Garden of Ridvan (Paradise). When He arrived at the garden, Baha’u’llah


turned the sad event of His exile into a festival of great joy. He announced that He was a Messenger of God.

Baha’u'llah spent 12 days living in

a tent and meeting with friends in the garden. When He left Baghdad on May 3, 1863, people of all faiths lined the streets, showing Him great respect.

Over the next 29 years, Baha’u'llah endured more exile and imprisonment. Still, He shared His Message of peace and unity through many books and Tablets. He taught that the time had come for all prejudice and injustice to be stopped, and for people to live in harmony as one family.

a se" Use the code to discover some of Baha’ullah’s teachings. (? 1. All world religions come from God. 2 Asy Je sx Qis R ® kX Te 2AM are part of one human family. BPg@eWCP& ea C@ L& UN 3.Wecanestablsh | XADAaY ~ SV SE m e ma ve 4.Wemustend ——_ ——e—eses—séi‘“‘“‘it of all kinds Eo NS wi eee | we 5.Womenand menare ; FA OW xk G@UXs7A

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MARCH/APRIL 2007 ¢ Brilliant Sta


[Page 2]Brilliant Star

Baha'i National Center 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201 U.S. Subscriptions: 1.800.999.9019 Editorial Office: 847.853.2354 brilliant@usbne.org www. brilliantstarmagazine.org

©2007 NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES

Amethel Parel-Sewell EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR C. Aaron Kreader DESIGNER/ILLUSTRATOR Amy Renshaw SENIOR EDITOR Susan Engle ASSOCIATE EDITOR Annie Reneau ASSISTANT EDITOR

Artis Mebane FACILITIES MANAGER

CONTRIBUTORS Taraneh Ashraf ¢ Bijan Bayzaee » Lisa Blecker Susan Cangurel * Dan Duncan e Gary Hankins Hyde Hassel * Nadia Kardan ¢ Kris Medic Hoda Movagh « Martin Movagh « Tahirih Naylor Lexie Peer-Drake * Mark. E. Perry * Carys Quezada Jasmine Riazati « Veronica Shoffstall « Mateen Sofla Nasim Mansuri Solano * Campbell Thomason



Unless noted, original illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader and writing by Amy Renshaw, Susan Engle, or Annie Reneau.

By Lisa Blecker— Activities on pages 8, 12, and 27; Coloring on IFC, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 29

Historical photos courtesy of National Baha'i Archives unless otherwise noted.

Brilliant Star magazine invites all kids to explore the Baha'i Faith. It is the second most widespread religion in the world, with more than five million Baha'is.

The Baha’ Faith was founded by the Prophet Baha’u’llah (“Glory of God” in Arabic) in 1863. Baha'u'llah taught that all people are part of one human family, and that all religions come from one God. Baha'is work to bring peace and unity to the world, and end prejudice and discrimination of all kinds.

Baha’u'llah’s eldest Son, Abdu‘I-Bahd, interpreted His teachings and led the Baha’ community after Baha’u’llah’s passing.

Brilliant Star encourages kids to bring their virtues and talents to light, and use them to make the world a better place. Brilliant Star is produced bimonthly by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the U.S.

SUBSCRIPTIONS AND RENEWALS

To order or renew a subscription, contact Baha'i Subscriber Service by phone at 1.800.999.9019 or by e-mail at subscription@usbne.org. Standard U.S. rates: $18 (One year); $32 (Two years)

International surface mail: $18 (One year); $32 (Two years) International airmail: $28 (One year); $52 (Two years).

SUBMISSIONS

We welcome submissions and ideas from contributors of all ages. For editorial themes or submission guidelines, mail your request with a self-addressed stamped envelope, or e-mail us (above).

SUBJECT INDEX AND CLASS USE

A subject index of Brilliant Star is available at: www.education.usbne.org/child_spir_ed/bril_star.htm

Teachers may photocopy pages in limited quantities for classroom use. The name of the magazine and issue date must be present on all copies and proper credit given to the copyright owner.

RIGHTS AND PERMISSIONS

All content in this magazine is copyrighted by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the U.S. or by individual contributors. For permission to copy or translate material, contact: Rights and Permissions, Brilliant Star, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201.

INTERNET RESOURCES AND INTERNET SAFETY

We often provide Internet resources to encourage readers to explore a topic, or to share our references. While we make every effort to choose reliable websites, Brilliant Star does not endorse or account for all content in referenced websites. Furthermore, we urge caution and parental guidance when using the Internet. For more information about Internet safety, visit: www.Wwiredkids.org/wiredkids_org.html



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Printed in the U.S. ¢ ISSN 0884-3635





WHAT’S INSIDE

REGULAR FEATURES

Baha’u’Ilah’s Life Garden of Paradise

Radiant Stars Get to know kids who shine, like you.

Nur’s Nook With equality, women and men can soar.

Riley’s Rainforest What can you do to keep Earth healthy?

Maya’s Mysteries How is your spirit like air?

Lightning and Luna: Episode 19 Why is Luna breaking the rules?

Shining Lamp: Mona Mahmudnizhad Mona gave up her life, but not her faith.

Stargazer: Tahirih Naylor Meet a world traveler who works for justice.

Music Café What happens when you give a little love away?

Calendars What's special about March and April?

Cosmo Chameleon’s Corner A crossword and more from our favorite lizard.

) aMAZEing ADVENTURE Help kids who want to build justice.



JQ) Brilliant Star * MARCH/APRIL 2007 �[Page 3]

BUILDING JUSTICE

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Sail of Love A unified crew makes smooth sailing.

We’re All Connected Read the stars with Stuart and Gabriella.

Help with Hunger How many food baskets can you deliver?

Cooperative Creatures Explore the helpful world of meerkats.

Rules Rule! Who's breaking the rules in this volleyball game?

Finding Common Ground Search for clues to match the kids with their clubs.

Crowns of Justice A good leader treats people with respect.

Choose Charity

Discover the power of giving.

Persian Rose Goli faces injustice with courage and nobility.

Climb Mount Justice Create your path to a just world.







ENTER BRILLIANT STAR’S Be oe __| NEW CONTEST! SEE DETAILS AT 0 0 0 0h FD) WwW W.BRILLANTSTARIMGAZINE.ORE |THE PEADLINE SAECOVERING (4G War eee | 5 evi




6, PERNENDs.

The Earth is a “global

village.” In a village,

people take care of each other. But many people in

our worldwide community face

injustice, such as war, poverty, hunger, prejudice, and abuse of their human rights.

In this issue, you'll meet two young authors who care about justice. Jasmine Riazati, 13, wrote about Mona Mahmudnizhad, who was killed by the Iranian government in 1983 because she was a Baha’i. Nadia Kardan, 16, was inspired by Mona to write “Persian Rose,”

a fiction story.

Sadly, these stories are not limited to the past. Last year, the United Nations urged Iran to stop human rights violations against Baha’is and other minorities. More than 125 Baha’is in Iran have been arrested in the past two years, for no reason other than their faith.

It is you, the youth of today, who will build the just and peaceful world of tomorrow.

Your actions can help end injustice in all parts of the globe. We present these challenges to you in a spirit of hope. We know, as the Baha’i writings say, that “youth can move the world.”


Your Friends at Brilliant Star



See also Brilliant Star’s issues “Protecting Our Planet,” May/June 2005, and “Light of Justice,” July/August 2005. To learn more, go to www.unesco.org/education/desd

MARCH/APRIL 2007 © Brilliant Star |<

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WERE ALL CONNECTED — *

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f you could tour the universe, you’d be in for a universe impacts everything else. The sun, oceans, A mind-boggling adventure. You'd find billions of +. and winds can affect our climate, our food, and stars and galaxies, and hundreds of planets. Yet — even our safety.


even though the universe is vast and mysterious, * We can choose to protect our global human re

. it’s like a human body — each part is connected to ** family and our environment. If all people worked all the others. In the same way that our eyes, ears, together with justice and love, just imagine what - « and brains influence our bodies, everything in the the human race could accomplish! at aa te om WYO a CR Re Ream URES Leen Roe ay ae Rms MR Rae Re MAM OR eae eRe t Ron CHRO auakl Bowe cme mlm Cem flee mice Coe 11)



GABRIELLA, VO YOU KNOW THAT THERE ARE MORE STAKS

THAN GRAINS OF SAND ON ALL THE WORLD’S BEACHES AND DESERTS?

TT SURE IS AN AMAZING 5) UNIVERSE, fee

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 �[Page 5]

DESLOW TOOU UDO

  1. magine having only a tiny bit of food to eat Help feed the people in Haki Village by delivering

L each day, and going to bed hungry every night. __ the first 50 food baskets arriving today. Follow the That’s what life is like for hundreds of millions of roads, and deliver (subtract) the number of baskets people, especially in rural villages of Africa and indicated at each hut. Pick up (add) more baskets Asia. Every year, six million kids die from hunger- _at the food stations along the way. Plan your trip

related diseases. In Africa, one-third of the people carefully—you must have at least five baskets

don’t have enough healthy food. If we work in remaining when you reach Mercy Shelter. You unity, we can help end hunger and other injustices can’t visit any road or location twice. The correct faced by people around the world. path visits all three food stations in order.


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To learn more about world hunger, see SEE ANSWER ON PAGE 28


[Page 6]RADIANT STARS cermwcrowvowswnosine =

‘God has crowned you with honor and in your hearts has He set a radiant star; verily the light thereof shall brighten the whole world! —Abdu!-Baha


These Radiant Stars answered the following questions: IT whatis my best quality or virtue? Ww

K 2. What do I want to be when I grow up? y What are my hobbies? Yq What do I like to dO with my Bahai friends and family?

5 Describe a time I, or someone 6 I've been given one million dollars else, was being treated unfairly. to help bring justice to the world. How did I resolve the situation? What would I do with it and why? | ;

y best quality or virtue is truthfulness. There’s a boy in my class that is When I grow up, I want to be always bullying one of my classmates a writer and an actress. xX that’s Japanese . . . I defend her,


My hobbies are reading, watching and I tell him to stop. movies, and working at my website for If I got a million dollars to help bring Junior Youth called “Moving the World.” justice to the world, I would use it to help Nasim Solano I like to go to summer schools... the poor people and the places that help Age ll, Encarnacion, | teach people the [Baha’i] Faith, and * drug addicts to stop . . . [and] children Paraguay [go] to junior youth classes. that need to go to school but can’t.


y best quality or virtue is respect. When I was playing a board game, When I grow up, I want to be an one of the players cheated. I stopped architect and cellist... & and said that it isn’t important just to My hobbies are playing the cello, win, and it is not fair to cheat... drawing, and playing with my dog. We start[ed] the game over... I really like playing soccer with [If I got a million dollars], I would [my Baha’i friends and family], going donate the monies to schools... for to youth meetings, and attending education on justice, equality, Carys Quezada [Baha’i] Ruhi Study Circle. > and fairness. Age 10, Texas, US.

y best quality or virtue is patience. video games... and then my other two When I grow up, I want to be a doctor. _‘ friends came and watched a movie... My hobbies are playing piano, reading and did not let us play. We resolved


books, and playing basketball. the situation by talking to their I like to say prayers and go to [Baha’i] parents and being patient. Feasts with [my Baha’i friends and family]. [If I got a million dollars], I would Mateen Sofla One time, I was treated unfairly because help other people by buying food Age7, California,U.S. me and my two friend[s] were playing and clothes for them...




G@ Brilliant Star ¢ MARCH/APRIL 2007

Sar �[Page 7]My’ best quality or virtue is especially during the holidays.


helpfulness. When I grow I haven’t been . . . treated unfairly, » up, I want to be a tennis player. but if this does happen in the future... My hobbies are tennis, soccer, I will try to help those involved solve basketball, hockey, and drawing. their problem through consultation. Where I live .. . there are Baha’i There are millions of people in the children of all different backgrounds... world who don’t have proper housing. We play outside . . . and sometimes I would use the money... to help... we get to perform for the community. people get a proper house and ee Hyde Hassal I enjoy traveling with my family, ~~ access to water. | , Age 9, Suva, Fiji Islands

My’ best virtue is I am very » One time . . . everybody was treating


compassionate ... When I grow my younger sister unfairly, and said up, | want to: be a chef .;. they wouldn’t be her partner [on a My hobbies are cooking, listening to __ ride]. It got resolved by one of us music, and browsing the Internet... . picking her, and we all apologized. I like to talk with my family and play ... [If I got a million dollars], I games with them on Sunday nights. would donate to the less fortunate...

Lexie Peer-Drake During Sunday school, I enjoy Once people start to help each other, we Age 12, Wisconsin, U.S. talking to my Baha’i friends. a? can start to bring justice to the world.

y best quality is responsibility. * my Baha'i friends are sharing music,

When I grow up, I want to be an hiking, and goofing around. artist, because I love to express my Once, a close friend of mine was feelings through art. treating me unfairly, and saying hurtful My hobbies are drawing, reading, things. I... [told] him, “If you don’t


playing football, and playing my i want to be friends, just tell me, but trumpet. I especially love to play let me know when you're ready


my trumpet, because it brings me joy to start over.” when I accomplish something. If I were given a million dollars, I Martin Movagh The things I like to do with K would give it to the homeless shelters . . . Age IL, Illinois, U.S. CO a 1 1 a i l = y a | —— YOU CAN BE A RADIANT STAR! HERE’s HOW: ! } l. If you’re age 7-14, write us at brilliant@usbnc.org or ps Send both of them back to us with at least two different, i Brilliant Star, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201. good-quality, close-up photographs of your smiling face. | t Tell us you’d like to be a Radiant Star. Include your name, Photos should be in sharp focus and show your eyes clearly. |! } age, mailing address, phone number, and e-mail address. Please send your photos by mail, and we will return them. i We'll put you on our waiting list. Do not submit color copies, low-resolution digital images, i } 2. When it’s your turn to shine, we'll send you the questions or copyright-protected images (like school portraits). i and a form for you and your parents to sign. ie 4, Read Brilliant Star. When you see yourself, shout, “Hey, | } 3. Answer the questions. Sign the form with your parents. I'm a Radiant Star!” (But not if you're in the library.) * |



[Page 8]







as anyone ever expected you to behave a certain way because you're a boy or girl? Assumptions like these are stereotypes, and they're not fair. They can keep us from being our true and best selves. The Baha'i writings compare males and females to the two wings of a bird. Both wings need to be strong for the bird to fly. In the same way, women and men are equal in the sight of God. Although they are different,

Your. NEED

MAKE A Birp THAUMATROPE”

| With your tracing paper, trace the bird body and bird wing patterns below. Cut them out.


Wing pattern

y Fold your poster board circle in half, then unfold it. Glue a bird body along the middle of the circle’s centerline. Hold the blank side of your circle up to a light so you can see the bird through it. Then glue the second bird body facing in the opposite direction, and directly under the first one.



id Thread one piece of string through one of the holes and knot the ends together to make a loop. Repeat this step with your second piece of string for the other hole.

2 Place the bird body pattern on construction paper, trace, and cut it out. Repeat to make two bird bodies.



5 (a) Glue one pair of wings to a bird body, by the belly, so the wings point downwards. Now hold the other side of your circle up to a light so you can see the bird with wings through it. (b) Glue the second pair of wings to the shoulders so they point upwards and are directly under the wings on the opposite side.


Q) Hold an end of a string in each hand, with the bird facing upwards. Move your hands forward in a circular motion several times to wind the circle around the string. Then, pull the strings tight by moving your hands apart —and watch your bird fly!

Birp In Fucar

“The world of humanity has two wings—one is women and the other men. Not until both wings are equally developed can the bird fly.” —‘Abdu'l-Baha

they deserve equal rights and opportunities.

Around the world, many women are subjected to oppression or violence. Some women don’t have the same legal rights and freedom to work that men do. Many girls are prevented from attending school. ;

When women and men are treated with equality and justice, humanity will soar. Create this flying bird craft to show two strong wings in action.

37/" (9 cm) circular piece of white poster board ¢ hole punch ® 2 pieces of 11" (28 cm) string black marker ¢ pencil © 1 piece dark construction paper © tracing paper ® scissors @ glue

9 Trace the wing pattern on construction paper, and cut it out. Repeat until you make four wings.

So

d


a

( Outline both birds with black marker. Draw eyes in exactly the same location on each bird’s head.

7 Punch a hole on each side of the circle. _...\




LOOK, IT’S FLYING!




Brilliant Star ¢ MARCH/APRIL 2007


  • A thaumatrope is a disc with a picture on each side. When it’s spun quickly

on string, the pictures seem to combine into one moving image. �[Page 9]


Cooperative Creatures al ey,

Soin hands and work together for the peace and progress of the entire world.” —Bahd’i Writings

Ww: an earthquake or hurricane causes disaster, Meerkats are animals that know all about the people send prayers, money, and help from all benefits of helping one another. They live on the over. But about a billion kids in the world face disaster dry plains of southern Africa, in a community

daily—they lack the food, healthcare, education, or called a mob or a gang. All of the adult meerkats Ss i safety they need to grow and live happily. We take care of the young. They warn each other of “& t can create a better world by acting with love ~ danger, share meals after hunting, and sleep in

and justice toward everyone, all the time. warm heaps. They even sing together.

WHAT DID THE

INEERKAT SAY

COME AND {70 ITS BURROW?

GET IT! THE p

2=_| SNE SOUP [IS READY!









~ <1. YOU WANT ME TO EAT A POISONOUS SCORPION?!


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casi ae = Y : = : eS e west be 5 SOMEVAY, mY , eel Ne oe atl _ #4 YOU'LL BE 20 RELAX, WE’RE th SANZ fs oN INCHES TALL.



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WRITE THE ae IN ONE UNBKOKEN LINE? [NUMBER HERE: 5 we ao at moe

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SEE ANSWER ON PAGE 28 �[Page 10]




e

Bend do down... from the deuds of Thy mercy the rains of Thy healing...

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‘Healthy Planet, Healthy People 2802 Se

, bout six billion .» people share Earth as our home. Keeping " Barth healthy is crucial, = yet many people neglect it. Ln If our planet isn’t healthy, ~ our health is in danger, too. D..: Did you know that rainforests

Explore and Sear HOW FAIR ARE YOU?

ps: fair is more than just

/ sharing your stuff with a friend. It also means being respectful and keeping an open mind. Check your “fairness compass” with this test.




«are home to half of the world’s Write in your letters below: animal and plant species? They How many ways can you think A Always M Mostly also provide oxygen, water, of to save energy? You can turn S Sometimes R Rarely and important medicines. But off lights and appliances when humans have destroyed over they’re not in use. You can trade ____1 treat others the way 1 half of our rainforests! Some are _ old books and toys with friends. want to be treated. cut down to mine bauxite, for You can even bring a waste-free ____ 1 accept people who are making aluminum. Recycling lunch to school, with reusable different from me. cans is one way you can help containers, a cloth napkin, and __ 1 can admit when I’m wrong. save the rainforests.* a refillable drink bottle. ____1l’m a good sport, whether You can also protect the earth Help spread the word about 1 win or lose.

by using less energy. The U.S. global health! Start an earth- ____ I listen to all sides in a conflict. uses nearly a million dollars’ friendly club, or write an article ____1 solve problems with patient

, worth of energy every minute. for your school paper. See if talking and listening.

P Burning fuel for energy creates your school can become a

air pollution, which causes global “Green School,” where If all of your answers are “A” warming and climate changes. everyone works together or “M,” your compass is in This makes it hard to grow food to save energy.** We can good shape. If you answered in some places, which contributes _ do a lot to help keep Earth some questions with “S” or “R,” to world hunger. safe and healthy for eee how can you eS

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hia tor Thought | ui ssi

“When perfect justice reigns in every country ... then will the earth become a place of beauty.” —‘Abdu’'l-Baha

Circle the right answers about recycling: Recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy to run a TV for: 30 minutes / 1 hour / 3 hours. — Recycling one glass bottle saves enough energy to light a 100-watt bulb for: 1 / 2 / 4 hours.



  • See www.kidssavingtherainforest.org to learn more. sunoy p ‘sunoy ¢

J Brilliant Star ¢ MARCH/APRIL 2007 **See www.ase.org/section/program/greenschl siamsuy Adoueg Aysoung


[Page 11]- ¥,


Rules Rule!

hat would the world be like without rules? Rules in sports keep the game fair for everyone. By Imagine what would happen if we didn’t stop _ respecting rules and laws, we help promote justice. at red lights, or if bullying kids at school was Look at the game below and read the posted rules. allowed. What if it was okay to cheat to win a game? List at least seven ways kids on the left are respecting Without rules and laws, life would be chaotic. Rules the rules and encouraging others. Then list at least

at home and school keep us healthy and safe. Some laws seven ways kids on the right are breaking the rules help protect our rights to speak, learn, and worship. and playing unfairly.


COURT RULES 1. RESPECT ALL PLAYERS. 2. RESPECT OFFICIALS AND COACHES. 3.70 NOT ABUSE EQUIPMENT. 4. NO FOOP ON THE COURT. 5. SPORT SHOES ONLY ON GYM FLOOR. 4

























SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 MARCH/APRIL 2007 © Brilliant Star | �[Page 12]

WHAT 70 AIK AND YOUR SPIRIT HAVE IN CONMON?





{ “Rise up; seize hold of such means as will bring you life and | happiness and greatness and glory...” — ‘Abdu'l-Baha

yg


== LET YOUR SPIRIT SOAR

u Wes. uplifts your spirit? It may be going for a bike potential. For example, when you use your talents, i ride, saying prayers, or making art. Activities you may feel more excited about learning new

.,.. like these can help you feel creative and joyful. things or helping others. In a similar way, thoughts

Focusing your thoughts and actions on what and actions that hurt you or others can bring your

. brings you joy can help you reach your highest spirit down. tna canst, enna tetra crease Arh sbsapere yn Sree _ + pila aa

pan vere AIR EXPERIMENT = i Try this cool experiment, then answer the questions below.

You'll need: Empty plastic soda or water bottle « pipe cleaner cup of dish soap ¢ ice cubes © bowl of hot water ¢ bowl of cold water


11. Loosely wrap one end of your 3. Glide the soapy loop over the 5. If necessary, repeat steps 2

pipe cleaner around the top top of the bottle until you've and 3. Now, gently place the of your bottle and twist the sealed it with soap film. bottle in a bowl of cold water ends to make a loop. Remove ‘ 2 y». and add ice cubes to make

4, Without squeezing v4 the bottle, place “iA

itinabowlof (@ hot water (the



the water colder than room © temperature. What happens to Cc the soap film on the bottle?

the loop from the bottle.




2. Dip the loop



into a bowl % ea water should ay it all: of water. reach about Halewaye: Then dip it into the dish soap up the height of the bottle). until a film of soap appears What happens to the soap H inside the © loop. film on the bottle? yy an. SINK OR SOAR? ren A

he water heats or cools the air in the bottle. hurtful thoughts and actions (like gossip or bullying) When air gets hotter, its molecules move faster can make your self-confidence sink. Warm and ; and take up more space. This makes the air in the joyful thoughts and actions (like talking with a i bottle push up on the soap film. Cold water has friend) can help your spirit soar. Who or what lifts i the opposite effect. your spirit? Your spirit is like the air in the bottle. Cold and



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Brilliant Star © MARCH/APRIL 2007


[Page 13]FINDING COMMON GROUND

“Prejudices of any kind are the destroyers of human happiness and welfare. Until they are dispelled, the advancement of the world of humanity is not possible...” —‘Abdu'l-Baha

ave you ever heard someone put down a we can overcome prejudice. Making friends with person just because of what they’re wearing people from different cultures, religions, and back- or who they’re hanging out with? Forming — grounds can show us how much we have in common.

an opinion about someone before getting to know In this scene, each student is signing up for two them is prejudice. Some people dislike those who school clubs. All nine kids are different, but look look, talk, or worship differently. Whatever the for clues about interests they share. Then sign up reason, prejudice is wrong and dangerous. It can each kid for the two clubs that match their interests. hurt feelings and lead to fights, or even wars. List three names for each club — each has only three

If we get to know people for who they really are, spots left.





AFTER-SCHOOL CLUBS — SIGN UP TODAY!


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INTERNATIONAL CLUB BRAIN GAMES CLUB MATH AND SCIENCE CLUB




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MUSIC AND DRAMA CLUB SPORTS AND FITNESS CLUB


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j- a | | WHAT? =———> SO? I JUST WENT OOF! [(S") | We'Re UPLIFTERS, TO BRAZIL, GOT MY SOMETIMES REMEMBER? UNITE? | 4 H.0. SAID ONLY 1] LES BROKEN, AND |] ||RULES GET FOR PEACE, LOVE, |] AGHTNING FT HELPED SAVE THE BROKEN. INTEGRITY, FAITH, | LSHOULY COME. |) WoRLD FROM THE LIKE My ANP TRUTH! T1

SMOTHERING SMOG. WOULDN'T BE COOL TO

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PLEASE, CAN LUNA COME THIS ONCE? AFTER ALL, OUR PARENTS ARE M/SSINE!






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MEANWHILE, AT GRANVILLE PIS i Sa

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[Page 15]


LZ THIS COULD BE THE KEY 4 MEANWHILE, THE UPLIFTERS HEAV TO H.9. .. | YOU’RE CLEAREV, LUNA,

TO BRINGING DOWN ALL | THE UPLI

BUT PULSAR DIDN’T SOUND PLEASED.


















INNUTES LATER... . WITH ALL THE ROBBERIES, me caret ai | [iis cunt | Cane un ae ree eae GREEDY IS RESPONSIPLE, | | \icigh AND ELECTRIC POWER


IF, AND HOW, THEY FIGURED OUT YOUR IVENTITIES.

WITHOUT OUR COVER, ALL UPLIFTERS ARE IN VANGER.

MISSING, WE THINK THE ERASERS WAVE YOUR PARENTS.




BUT WHY?! THEY’RE NOT UPLIFTERS.





BUT WE DON’T KNOW YOU CAN FIND THE LAIR ANP WHERE HIS LAIR IS. _| DISABLE ITS SECURITY.






















WHAT SHOULD I Lo

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YOU SHOULDN’T BE HERE. WE YOUR BROKEN LEG WE HAVE AN ALLOWED IT THIS TIME, BUT |] I-T KNOW. MIGHT HAVE TIPPED |] IMPORTANT MISSION THE RULES ARE MAVE TO T/M SORRY. OFF THE ERASERS FOR YOU AT YOUR PROTECT YOU AN? OTHERS. || I’M JUST SO ABOUT YOUR IDENTITY. 1} SCHOOL. WE’LL








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[Page 16]

CROWNS of JUSTICe

“0 God... Attire nine head with the crown of justice, and my temple with the ornament of equity.” —Baha’wllah

ave you ever dreamed of being a king ora justice. Baha’u'llah praised fair leaders and said they queen? Such a powerful position can bring would “occupy a high rank and a sublime station.”

rich rewards, and also great responsibilities. . | Whether they’re ruling a country or in charge When Baha’u'llah was in Turkey and Israel in of a class project, leaders are responsible for the 1860s and 1870s, He wrote to the most powerful promoting justice in their communities. We are kings and rulers of His time. He urged them to all noble beings. A just leader will make sure that establish world peace and treat their people with all people are treated with respect and fairness.


These kids are exploring a museum exhibit about the positive acts of kings, queens, and rulers. Find 15 hidden crowns and royal headpieces.

=o

EX Promotes Provides Supports the

Education for All : Peace re yk tl I il fll Ml

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i

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4 | Jn

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Brilliant Star ¢ MARCH/APRIL 2007 SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28


[Page 17]Choose Charit

He: people in need is a great way to show To find out, look at the eight picture boxes below.


your love for humanity. When you practice Find each one in the larger image. Watch out— charity — giving your time, money, or things — some of the boxes are rotated. Under each box,

to people who need them—you help establish write the correct letter of the column (ovals) and justice in the world. You also bring joy to others the row (rectangles) where it’s located. Then read and yourself. the letters in order to discover the answer. The

Can you guess what Baha'u'llah said about charity? first picture box has been done as an example.

The pala i writings say chants is I an pon and e a:


























A G 0 H D J - & ?

SEE ANSWER ON PAGE 28 MARCH/APRIL 2007 ¢ Brilliant Sta



[Page 18]eS Cumnine Caup

A Baha'i who served humanity with radiance

MONS MAYMUDNIZHAD: MY HERO

ero is a word that has many definitions. To some, it means Spiderman, the Incredible Hulk, and Superman— fictional characters with super strength and supernatural abilities. To me, a hero is someone in the past or present who did something incredible to affect the future. Mona Mahmudnizhad was that type of person, making her my hero.

Born on September 10, 1965, in Yemen, Mona Mahmudnizhad lived most of her life in Iran. She was a strong child intellectually and emotionally, and was very close to her parents. Mona and her family were devoted followers of the Baha’i Faith.

AN 4M4AZING DREAM Mona prayed and meditated every day. Once she had a beautiful dream. Baha’u’llah, the Founder of the Baha’i Faith, appeared and showed Mona three capes. The first one was red, which would lead to martyrdom. The second was black; it was the cape of sorrow. The third was blue and represented service. Without any words, Baha’u’'llah draped the cape of service around Mona’s shoulders.

When Mona was 17, her home was ransacked by the Iranian government, which did not approve of her religion. They took Mona and threw her in prison. The prison punishment was severe. Many prisoners were tied to a table and whipped.

Mona was insulted and harshly questioned about her Baha’i activities for 18 hours at a time. The guards threatened to kill her if she did not deny the Baha’i Faith. Mona silently prayed, and she always said “No” with all her strength. This happened many times.


By Jasmine Riazati, age 13



Above: A fellow prisoner wrote of Mona, “She was a living example of encouragement and steadfastness.”



Above: Mona’s gentle spirit led others to call her the “Angel of Shiraz.”

Left: Mona and her father had a deep bond. They were both teachers of the Baha’i Faith and were arrested together in 1982 by Iranian officials.


THE RED CAPE On June 18, 1983, the prison guards called Mona and nine other women. They were taken by bus to a field, and each one was hanged. Mona, the youngest, was last. She prayed for the souls of the executioners. Surprising to those watching, Mona placed the noose around her own neck. She accepted her death. She traded her blue cape for a red one.

To me, Mona is more than a hero—she is a martyr of my Faith. I pray someday I will be able to serve my Faith with the same devotion and strength as Mona.



Brilliant Star ¢ MARCH/APRIL 2007

Photos of Mona courtesy of www.adressformona.org �[Page 19]PERSIAN

ROSE {

fay Nadia Kardan, age 16

Editors’ Note: This story was inspired by ~ a the experiences of Mona Mahmudnizhad ~, : (see page 18). It contains somber and powerful events. We encourage you to read and talk about it with your parents or teachers.

° oli got up from the floor where she sat to say her morning prayers. She peered at CS in the mirror, smoothed her denim mini-skirt, and admired her red spaghetti-strap top. It was illegal to wear these clothes and her make-up outside.

“Goli jun!” she heard her grandmother call.

“Yes, Madar jun?” she replied.

Madar jun came slowly downstairs. She smiled and stroked Goli’s cheek. “You don’t need to wear make-up and stylish clothes. You are already the prettiest young woman in Iran.”

“Thank you, Madar jun.”

“Let’s have breakfast. But put on long sleeves and pants. You don’t know who could knock on our door.”

Goli changed her clothes, then they sat down to a simple meal of toast, feta cheese, and tea.

Suddenly, Goli’s brother, Bijan, and his friend, Amir, bolted through the door.

“Sobh bi kheir, Madar jun,” Bijan said, as he kissed her on the cheek. He picked up a slice of bread and spread cheese on it before stuffing it in his mouth. “Hey, Goli.”

“Salaam, Khanum e Rashidi,” Amir said to Madar jun politely. “Salaam, Goli.”

Goli blushed as she smiled back.

“Hey, Goli, you want to go out with us?” Bijan asked.





“No,” Madar jun said, “Goli’s going to help me cook for Baha’i Feast tonight. Besides, she’s teaching a children’s class, and she needs to prepare.”

“Amir and I will be with her. We'll be okay.”

Goli wasn’t interested in going out, only to constantly check if her hair was completely hidden by her scarf and endure taunts from people who knew she was Bahai.

Madar jun shook her head. “I feel best when she’s out with her father.”

After Bijan and Amir had gone, Madar jun said, “I'll make khorescht e badamjun. Get the eggplants, and we'll peel them.”

Goli fetched the bag of eggplants and set two chairs around a waste basket. They began peeling the vegetables.

“What have you planned for the children tonight?” Madar jun asked. “I’m going to tell them a story about Baha’u'llah, and they’ll draw a

picture about it.” “What story will you be telling?” Goli looked down. “I’m not sure.” “The Ridvan Festival begins soon. Tell them about that.”

“Describe Ridvan to me again, Madar jun.” Madar jun closed her eyes and smiled. “In Baghdad, there was a place, beautiful beyond words.


CONTINUEL) ON PAGE 20


Persian: Juin = Dear; Madar jun = Affectionate term for grandmother; Sobh bi kheir = Good morning; Sala4m, Khdnum e Rashidi = Hello, lady Rashidi

MARCH/APRIL 2007 ¢ Brilliant Star Uae �[Page 20]PERSIAN ROSE CONTINUED FROM PHGE19


They called it the Garden of Ridvan, or Paradise. The fragrance of roses filled the air as nightingales flew above, singing a song to all below. It was there that Baha’u'llah declared that He was a Messenger of God.”

That evening, Goli’s home was filled with boisterous talking, children playing, and laughter. Baha’i Feast happened every 19 days, and Goli always looked forward to it.

“Everyone!” her father, Reza, announced. “Please, sit down.”

The group of about 15 people took their seats. Everyone took turns saying prayers.

Then Goli gathered the four children in her class and led them to the TV room. Leila was the oldest at 11. Kamron and Sami were 9, and Nika was 8.

Goli loved teaching. The kids told her constantly that they loved being with her, too. They were told that they were “worthless dogs” by others— and even by their teachers— because of their religion. School wasn’t supposed to be like that, Goli thought.

“Tonight, I am going to tell you a story, and then we are going to draw pictures,” Goli announced, smiling. “The story begins in a beautiful garden full of roses, called Ridvan.”

The kids sat on the floor and looked up at her eagerly.



About an hour later, Madar jun began to bring out the food with Goli’s mother, Roya. It was time for the children to rejoin the group. Reza, her father, heard their laughter from down the hall.

Then Reza heard a car outside. He peeked out of the blinds. His heart nearly stopped when he recognized a police vehicle. The room slowly grew silent as everyone saw the look on Reza’s face.

The doorbell rang. Reza opened the door slowly. Three officers stormed in.

“Good evening,” Reza choked out, trying to look brave. “May I help you, officers?”

“What’s going on here?” one asked.

“We were about to have dinner,” said Reza calmly.

An officer scowled and said, “We were ordered by the Public Prosecutor of Tihran to search the Rashidi home. Are you Mr. Reza Rashidi?”

“I am, sir. This is my home. You may search it if needed.”

Roya cautiously took a few steps toward her husband. A guard roughly grabbed her arm and pushed her aside.

Bijan came forward, muttering angrily, “Don’t touch—” His words were cut off when the guard pulled out his gun and pointed it directly at Bijan’s forehead.

“Sag e Baha'i,” said the guard. Sweat glistened on Bijan’s face as he held up his hands innocently.


e220: Brilliant Star © MARCH/APRIL 2007

Persian: Sag e Baha’ = An offensive insult �[Page 21]The guard with the gun snapped at the other guards to begin searching. One began ravaging everything in sight. Then he moved to the kitchen, and the sounds of pots and dinnerware crashing echoed through the house. The third guard moved down the hallway, and barged into the TV room, where Goli was teaching her class.

Goli jumped. The children moved closer to her. The guard looked at the drawings on the floor.

“Sir, may I ask, who are you?” Goli whispered, her voice shaking.

The man ignored her and walked to a table with a Baha’i prayer book and notebooks for the students. He ripped the notebooks open and saw

prayers, drawings, and sentences about Baha’u’llah.

He pointed his gun at Goli. “Come with me,” he said. Then he looked at the children. “Follow her!” His voice was like thunder. Nika was in tears.

In the living room, Goli felt suddenly cold when she saw the gun pointed at Bijan. The third guard grabbed her arm and pushed her toward the guard with Bijan.

“Take her,” he said.

Goli looked around at the panicked faces of her family and guests. Then the second guard came into the living room. Finally, the guard lowered his gun from Bijan’s head.

“You are under arrest,” the guard who took Goli announced to Reza. The guard grabbed Goli’s arm again. “As is she.”

“She is a child!” her mother cried. “Why do you take my child? She’s only 16!”

“Your child is a Baha’i teacher,” the guard responded. “She is under arrest.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR



One month later. One hour to live.

Goli wasn’t afraid. She looked back on her month of interrogation and torture. She could have been home long ago, had she renounced her faith. But how could they expect her to lie? Her beliefs made up who she was.

30 minutes to live.

Goli was led to the gallows with nine other women. She was the last in line. The guards told them again that they could live—if they denied their faith. All stayed in line.

15 minutes to live.

Goli closed her eyes and prayed.

5 minutes to live.

She was next. She prayed for the woman before her, and then waited.

1 minute to live.

Goli slipped the noose over her own neck.

She closed her eyes and felt no pain. She thought of the Garden of Ridvan, Paradise, where the fragrance of roses filled the air as nightingales flew above, singing a song to all below.

Nadia Kardan, age 16, lives in New Jersey, U.S. She says, “I like to write realistic dramatic fiction regarding numerous conflicts between different groups of people. | always want to make sure that my writing has something valuable that every reader can gain. 1 chose to write about Baha’is in Iran because . . . they can, at any time, conform to the majority beliefs and avoid any and all persecution, but they simply choose not to.” We hope this story encourages you to think about the human rights of all people. In many parts of the world, people of all faiths face tragic injustice with great nobility and strength.


MARCH/APRIL 2007 © Brilliant Star


[Page 22]

oe TAKIQiK NA st0 On,

since she was six weeks old. That's




Se in es 4 na Ae ye ars; ) CYavi ng - AS

rsity Dance Theater, rT tra — to 13 o theens


~ Sy C1 , tontecne <7, wes lew is ship. She’s also trained young people to }


yT f the WO] ld


+ dnam * 1 Cede can: bape, A ace acorreee pe | ETD pre cares “ ET Lg on Sige ae . i a ee | to do amazing things, no matter how yanny they are. Their ideas are good and



rthwhile, and ides should share them.’ r service and work projects. She's nal Community at the United and organizations about Baha’

on issues like human rights and the environment. She lives in New York City.


My si sister [Eden] ~ I [had] children’ S classes at our house, and a lot of the kids kind of danced and performed .. . So after our children’s classes were over... we'd sing Baha’i songs. Then Eden and I would make up dances. It was a very nice community kind of atmosphere.



saarh at 7) what was your





e and how did you

aN y

Left: Tahirih (right),


I can remember coming back from Guyana and starting grade one, and feeling really disconnected from the culture and what to expect. I remember saying to my parents . . . “Nobody loves me here.” .. [But] you find some courage and stick it out. And then... a Persian Baha’i girl [came] . . . to my school. So I was able to relate to her really

about age 6, with her siblings in Guyana. Above: Tahirih (left), age 8, and her family in Canada. Left: The Naylor family at the first birthday of their twins (front).


well and sort of help her orient a little bit. eS eer Tahirih is at right. What ir d you to serve others in your work and your volunt projects? I grew up ina place [Guyana] where t fee was stuff Just seeing the state that so many people such poverty .. . The country was in such debt are forced to live in, and thinking that those people that we weren’t allowed to have flour or cheese aren't allowed to contribute to the betterment of the

or anything imported ... The police could come _ world because they’re so concerned every day about and place you under arrest if you had any of that how they’re going to live and survive.


ae 22 ‘Brilliant Star ¢ MARCH/APRIL 2007 �[Page 23]

Q. In this issue of Brilliant Star, we're focusing on themes of love and justice. What do you think are the greatest challenges kids face around the world today?

I think that every day, each of us faces a challenge

in trying to be loving to those around us. . . whether

or not someone is easy to get along with .. . To care for them because they’re God’s creation, and they’re noble beings. The other part . . . is trying to work for justice in our families and in our communities, in the world .. . To have courage to speak up when we see something that’s unjust, and to work for justice in a way that doesn’t create divisions and disunity, but that actually creates unity.


Left: Tahirih (middle) visited Western Samoa to share the Baha’i Q. In your work with youth, you've used the arts _Faith with others. Right: Tahirin (middle) and friends outside the to address social issues. How can art play a Baha’i Temple in Western Samoa before going to Baha’i Feast. role in social justice? Arts have the potential to address the heart, people’s emotions, and core underlying values .. . When people might not be willing to listen to someone just standing and talking at them, they enjoy seeing a song or a dance or a play and then trying to think about the issues in a way that doesn’t feel... confrontational ...

Q. What can kids do to promote fairness in

their families and schools? One of the best tools we have to promote fairness is be = oe ... consultation. [We can] study the writings about _ Tahirih passes by a globe sculpture at the entrance to the grounds what consultation is and then try to practice it... of the United Nations, where she works in New York City.


Q. What’s the most interesting thing you've learned traveling? I think what I’ve learned is to be humble in learning —_ highly educated, or have money, or they have from people. You can learn such profound things none. Probably, from the people who have none, from people all over the world, whether they’re there are more profound lessons to be learned.

Q. What tips do you have for kids who want to make positive changes in the world? To really think about concrete things they can do that they really can make a difference, that they in their community, and to ask adults for help in really can achieve great things, and not be afraid doing them. So they can really be the leaders in to ask for help from those around them, and don’t doing that .. . I think they have to [be] confident listen to discouragement or nay-sayers.


MARCH/APRIL 2007 © Brilliant Star |


[Page 24]

cee MUSIC CAFE

ze ere “Music, sung or played, is spiritual food “op i / ) -¥ for soul and heart.” —Baha’i Writings

eo Sin as the parts of the human body are connected, each person is

connected to every other person. When we share love with others through kind actions, we can inspire them to be kind to someone else. Celebrate our heart-to-heart connection by singing...

A WHOLE LOT MORE

By Dan Duncan




When you~ give a_ lit - tle bit, you get a whole lot more.___—- With =just a


pen-ny of kind - ness you could buy a whole store. Now let me tell you one thing_ that I’ve learn-


ed and I know. Well, if you give a lit-tle love,it will grow— and__ grow.— Ya, when you

10 Fine L.



give a_ lit-tle love, you get it back and then a whole lot mo - re. When you

Ld Ta

Well, there once was a man who plant - ed seeds, just - one lit- tle seed for you and


me. But the seed it grew up - in-to a great big tree, and now we have e- nough seeds to make a

bo bo

DC al Fine


mil - lion tree - s.

©2004 by Dan Duncan. Used with permission. For more songs by Dan Duncan, visit www.characterrocks.com

Brilliant Star ¢ MARCH/APRIL 2007 �[Page 25]

MARCH 2007 «:


63/164 Bahai Era





t's easy to refresh your body. If you're hungry, you can eat. If you're tired, you can sleep.

It’s important to refresh your spirit, too. You might pray, meditate, or enjoy nature when

you want to feel peaceful. In many religions, people fast to lift their spirits. From March 2 through March 20, Baha'is ages 15 to 70 don’t eat or drink between sunrise and sunset.* During these days, “the heart becomes tender and the spirituality... increases.” When the Nineteen Day Fast ends, Baha'is celebrate Naw-Ruz, the Baha’i new year. It’s a time to pray, enjoy each other's company, and share refreshments.

Sunday Monday TueSday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

- .









BAHA’I


aS is oa MONTH OF = ga@somtnietn 7. -- e se So er — ay \ F Spring is celebrated

Women’s History Month (U.S.) ~ : a ne by throwing Jackie Mitchell, the second woman in professional baseball, struck out Babe Ruth. @ (LOFTINESS) colorful dyes. Every 19 days, ee Baha'i Feast Day (U.S.) International is held on or Volunteers have Women’s Day (UN) near the first helped people in When women and men day of the 139 countries are equal, world peace Baha’i month. since 1961. is possible.



11 12

Daylight Savings True or False?*

14

Save a Spider Day





Time Begins 133 million young (U.S) (U.S.) people in the Spiders help = world can’t us by eating - read or write. harmful bugs. eee 7 ABR. 18 (Sq. 7; 20 or 94 | rater oye ¢ (World Day for

- | Water (UN) If you were a

= Over abillion superhero, what =| people lack would you do to -« Safe drinking promote justice? )

Did you know? True or False?*

Young artists have You can donate painted more than ducks to help a 4,000 portraits as family in need gifts for orphans.* earn a living.



  • Intro: If a person is ill, pregnant, nursing, traveling, doing heavy labor, under 15, or over 70, they do not have to fast.

March 25: See www.thememoryproject.org. HOVSPay MMM 99S “ANIL :9Z YOUR) “ANIL ‘7 | YOR :Ssuamsuy


[Page 26]APRIL 2007, 164 Baha’; Era

n 1863, Baha'u'llah was banished from Baghdad, Iraq, by officials who were hostile

to the Baha’i Faith. Before He left for Turkey, Baha'u'llah entered the Garden of

Ridvan (Paradise). His departure from Baghdad saddened many people, and they wanted the chance to say goodbye. Wearing a tall felt crown called a taj, Baha'u'llah walked through the garden, which was filled with roses and singing nightingales. With joy and majesty, He announced that He was a Messenger of God. Bahd’is celebrate this period as the Festival of Ridvan, the most sacred holiday, from April 21 to May 2.


Sunday Monday TueSday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

T 2 3 4 3 6 (

April Fools’ Day Enter Brilliant Passover begins Good Friday World Health Star's “Discovering (Judaism) g (Christianity) Day (UN)






ek Artin Nature” Contest. Learn how to make DEADLINE: a disaster kit for SE x APRIL 16* your family. Easter ~ BAHA'I > (Ma BEK@®) True or False?* Songkran, Thai (Christianity) Sinise §= Say 37 Kids think that New Year Z | 4, coaches should (April 13-15) _ JALAL ! ; = care most People thank their


| (GLORY) } fs about winning. elders with gifts.

me es

15 ‘ay | FIRST DAY

National Poetry i te |

Month (U.S.) | OF RIDVAN

Tell a tale of ih ee | Celebrate i

love or justice Baha’u ilah’s

in a poem. . Declaration )

fee [ps ees ees * j ia i




22

Earth Day (U.S.)






April is Child Abuse Prevention Month (U.S.)

If you or a friend feels unsafe, tell someone you trust.

Arbor Day (U.S.)

Plant a tree and < aN celebrate Earth. q (BEAUTY)

5 2: _ . A Se \

(99

NINTH DAY | % OF RIDVAN -z ‘ Baha'u'lléh’s | family joined Him * _in the garden.

wa os ee ee *



Did you know? 1.2 billion people live on less than $1 a day. African scientists have developed more than 100 new, more efficient crop varieties to help fight hunger.


zs e114: “See Brilliant Star, January/February 2007, or www.brilliantstarmagazine.org, for contest details Brilliant Star ¢ MARCH/APRIL 2007 ‘Aejd 0) agueyo e auoAsana GuiA6 jnoge Jsow 3129 pinous

sayoeod pies Bio-yyeaysply Aq pakanins sply JO %p9 ‘asje4 — LL Judy uemsuy


[Page 27]Climb Mount Justice

“Tread ye the path of justice and equity in all things.” —Baha’u’llah

He you ever stood up for a friend who was do what you think is right. Sometimes you might criticized for being different? Have you ever said feel afraid, angry, or sad. “no” to something that would hurt you or someone What helps you on your journey to justice? Maybe

else? Like climbing a mountain, your path to justice __ it’s talking to friends, saying prayers, or playing

C y can have challenges. It takes courage and honesty to music. You can find ways to keep your spirit strong. > Draw your path to the top of Mount Justice. Include the people ) CNX ( of ‘ 6 Loot |} or things that can help you overcome obstacles along the way. Pe My, ! \; il



MARCH/APRIL 2007 © Brilliant Star | D7 �[Page 28]



CHAMELEON’S CORNER Lock for clues te the crossword puzzle throughout the magazine. ACROSS 2. Justice is a force. (p. 4)

3. You can put love into when ig, you cooperate as one unified crew. (IFC) | |

5. Tahirih says this is one of the best tools for fairness. (p. 23)

7. To Jasmine, this person is more than a























hero. (p. 18) 10. They help keep us healthy and safe. (p. 11) 12. Martin wants to be an 5 ((a, 7) 13. Women and men are (ON 1)

14. Who joined the sports and fitness club with Yao and Ruby? (p. 13)

16. Charity is _(p. 17)



DOWN 1. Goli loved . (p. 20) 6. If we work in


, we can help end 9. Carys’ best virtue. (p. 6)

4. Home to half of the world’s animal and hunger and other injustices. (p. 5) 11. It takes and honesty plant species. (p. 10) 7. They are cooperative creatures. (p. 9) to do what you think is right. (p. 27) 5. Everything in the universe is . 8. Leaders are responsible for promoting 15. Women and men are like two (p. 4) in their communities. (p. 16) wings of a . (p. 8)

CHECK OUT THIS LETTER FROM A FRIEND. WHAT 70 YOU \\KE BEST IN ks BRILLIANT STAK? WRITE ME AT BRILLIANT@USBNC.ORG



WHERE rn te WORLD® UNSCRAMNBLEe THESE CLUCS. I'N & COUNTRY WHERE...

You can climb the world’s STENLOG = ss | mountain range, the Andes.

More than half of the land is covered by lush STEFRAOSRIN

S Alpacas, a type of llama, are raised for their OOLW = _ y You can eat sweet, ring-shaped ETASTR




Campbell Thomasen, Age 8, Indiana, US.

| really like to see the kids in Radiant Stars.

called picarones.




Someday, if there is space, The Incas began buildingavast EPIREM = in the year 1438. | would like to tell the mynhaneis Ss Brilliant Star kids about SS SO . x 3 PAGE 4: “Justice is a powerful force. It is, above all else, my family. | also want to co © the conquerer . . . of the hearts and souls of men, and a = the revealer of the secrets of the world . . .” —Baha’u'llah let you know that | really 2

PAGE 9: 62 meerkats in one unbroken line.


like the mazes, Lightning and Luna, and the drawings where you find things that are hidden. | also like the stories of people helping each other, [and]

the craft ideas...



answers



PAGE 11: Kids respecting the rules and encouraging each other are cheering from bench; not touching the net; trying to shake hands with an opponent; patting a teammate on the back; teaching a teammate to serve; wearing sport shoes; listening to the coach; snacking off the court. Kids breaking the rules are moping on

the bench; yelling at an official; kicking the ball; wearing roller skates; moving the boundary line; refusing to shake hands; laughing at an opponent; eating on the court; touching the net.

PAGE 17: Baha'u'llah said charity is “pleasing and praiseworthy” and is a “prince among goodly deeds.”





28 ‘Brilliant Star ¢ MARCH/APRIL 2007

“"Tdq ‘alidwia ‘syeau} ‘joom ‘s]SasOJUes “JSAHUO} PON) AY] Ul Blay/ 10) SIaMSUY �[Page 29]


Juatioe sical

“Justice must be sacred, and the rights of all the people must be considered. Desire for others only that which you desire for yourselves. Then shall we rejoice in the Sun of Justice ...”. —‘Abdu'l-Baha






ff

] ost faiths teach a version of the Golden feel to live in a world where wars and poverty have | Rule—that we should treat others as we been eliminated, and where everyone has good INF want to be treated. When we treat people schools and medical care.

with respect, we let go of prejudice and selfishness. The Baha’‘i writings tell us that this is the world Imagine a world where peace and unity encircle all of our future. And you can help build it —by letting of us, like the life-giving sun. Think of how it would your virtues of love and justice shine each day.


Tocho and Sienna want to help their friends build the Golden Sun School. Help them find their way.



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MARCH/APRIL 2007 ° Brilliant Star �[Page 30]


“Oh, friends of Gud, be living examples of justice! So that... the world may SPP in your actions that you manifest the attributes of justice and mercy.” —Abdu’l-Baha






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BUILDING JUSTICE * MARCH/APRIL 2007 * VOLUME 39, NUMBER 1. = AN AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES

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