[Page 0]Brilliant Star

Bahéa’i National Center 1233 Central Street Evanston, Illinois 60201 U.S. 847.853.2354 brilliant@usbne.org

SUBSCRIPTIONS: 1.800.999.9019 WWW. BRILLIANTSTARMAGAZINE.ORG

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

CONTRIBUTORS Claudius Adebayo ® Kim Aillo # Stewart Atwood Lisa Blecker Juliet Monireh Bogan # Rosamund Brenner # Chris Chan Lucy Chen © Kathy Cornyn « Khalil Fong @ Glen Fullmer Alessandro Giua ® Bunny Hull « Tae-Jin Kim © Eriko Kojima Doug Marshall ® Vijay Mohandas * Hoda Movagh Native American Bahai Institute ® Adeeb Niknam # Maya Plaksina Donna Price # Eve Razi Ravanbaksh # Zoe Talamantes © Margaret Tuomi Tewya Van Zanten # Mingway Wang « Rita Smith Wilke © Aram Zare

Original illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted. By Lisa Blecker: Art fr p. 27

Historical photos courtesy of National Bahl Archives, unless noted

Story and activity credits:

By Amy Renshaw: 9, 1, 14, 24, 27, 29 By Susan Engle: 4,5, 12, 18,20, 26, 28, By Annie Reneau: 2, 3, 6, 17, 21, 22 By Lisa Blecker: 8, 23 By Donna Price: 7, 10, 16

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'i Faith was founded by the Prophet Bahd’u'lldh (“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'lah's eldest son, Abdu'l-Bahd, interpreted His teachings and led the Baha’ community after Bahd'u'lléh’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 Bah of the U.S.

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

Internationa airmail $38 (One year); $68 (Two years)

Canada and Mexico: $28 (One year); $48 (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).

RIGHTS, PERMISSIONS, AND CLASS USE All content in this magazine is copyrighted by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is ofthe U.S. or by individual contributors.

For permission to copy or translate material, contact: Rights and Permissions, Briliant Star, 1283 Central St, Evanston, IL 60201 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.

INTERNET RESOURCES AND INTERNET SAFETY We often provide Internet resources to encourage readers to explore atopic, or to share our references. While we make every effort to choose reliable ‘websites, Brilliant Star does not endorse or account forall content in referenced Websites. Furthermore, we urge caution and parental guidance when using the Internet. For more information about Internet safety, visit: \wwnw.wiredkids.orgiwiredkids_org html

ISSN 0884-3695

WHAT’S INSIDE

FAVORITE FEATURES

Baha‘u'llah’s Life: Mission of Peace A magnificent vision appears in a dark dungeon.

Nur’s Nook Make your own drum to create rhythm and unity.

We Are One Explore and care for the place we all call home.

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

Lightning and Luna: Episode 38 How does Dr. Dixon Devious plan to rule the world?

Stargazer: Khalil Fong Meet a star musician from Hong Kong.

Music Café Sing a song about the one thing we must know.

Riley’s Rainforest Explore our spicy world from your own kitchen.

Shining Lamp: Louis Gregory With a heart of gold, he worked for race unity.

Maya’s Mysteries How is humanity like a rainbow?

Calendars What's special about May and June?

Cosmo Chameleon’s Crossword A crossword and more from our favorite chameleon

aMAZEing ADVENTURE You might have to branch out to solve this maze.

[Page 1]NOW TINATIONS

PRINTED WITH SOY INK|_

Global Adventures Pack your virtues for a safari and a service project.

Your Name ’s Cultural Canvas

Paint a picture of what makes you unique.

Appreciation Station Learn to speak the language of peace.

Zeke’s Travel Tips From the planet Zilizag, check out ideas for explorers.

Cycle of Life in the Rainforest Find the links between trees, bees, and agoutis.

How Open-Minded Are You? Take a quiz to find out.

Heritage of Humanity What do these treasures tell us about Earth’s history?

Flags Around the World What can you learn from a country’s flag?

Handmade with Love Traditional crafts tell us stories about humanity.

Backyard Biodiversity Discover the magic of growing a garden.

Watch with Wisdom Did you know there's a teacher in your living room?

GS FPO PRINTED IN THE U.S. AT AN FSC-CERTIFIED FACILITY, USING FSC-CERTIFIED PAPER AND SOY INKS.

Y ? CIEIND ) Our planet is home to more than six billion people who eat, dress, play, work, and live in different ways. We speak nearly 7,000 languages. We live in about 195 countries, with various holidays, festivals, customs, music, and arts. We express our faith through many religions.

The world’s cultures are amazing. Though diversity can sometimes lead to conflicts and prejudice, it doesn’t have to be that way. We’re all different, yet we’re one human family. Diversity makes our lives more fun and interesting. We can seek common ground and treat each other with respect.

In this issue of Brilliant Star, paint a picture of your culture, learn to say “thank you” in 16 languages, quiz yourself on your open-mindedness,

and learn about flags around the world. Also, meet Khalil Fong, a star of soul-pop music from Hong Kong. Celebrate Earth’s diversity with us—there’s always something new to explore!

With love from Brilliant Star

[Page 2]>—

nar po

ack your bags—it’s time to travel the world!

Maybe you dream of visiting far-off lands,

or perhaps you've already traveled to another country. Whether you go on a family vacation, for a service project, or as an exchange student, touring the world firsthand can be an incredible experience. You might explore wildlife, ancient ruins, the tallest mountains, or the most beautiful beaches. You can

make new friends who eat, speak, work, and play in diverse ways. And you can enjoy universal kindness and laughter.

Where do you want to go? What do you want to experience? You can start thinking about your trip, studying different cultures, and even saving money for your travels. Before you know it, you'll be off on

> Juliet is packing for an exciting journey with her family to visit Africa, goona safari, and do a service project. Find nine items that will help their trip go smoothly.

your own global adventure. > ] Li

——/

2 Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010

‘SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 26 [Page 3]A Brief ; Timeline |

The hife of Baha’ [lah

The highlighted area marks the time in which this story takes place.

1817 November 12 Birth of Baha'u'llah in Tihrén, Iran

1844 Recognizes the Bab as anew Messenger of God

R52 ee TRIES S| Imprisonment in the “Black Pit” of Tihran

1853-1863

Exile in Baghdad, Iraq. From 1854-1856, He goes into the mountains to pray in solitude.

1863 April 22 Declares Divine Mission

as Prophet-Founder of the Baha'i Faith

1863-1868 _| Exile in Constantinople (Istanbul), then Adrianople (Edirne), Turkey. Begins writing letters to kings and rulers in 1867, urging world unity

1868 Last exile, to prison- city of ‘Akka, Israel

Agr FONE 3s) Finally free to live in countryside homes of Mazra‘ih and then Bahji, outside ‘Akka

Baha'u'llah passes. away at Bahji.

Baha’u’llah’s life: Mission of Peace Finding Light in the Darkness

magine a gloomy, filthy dungeon with a horrible stench. Deep underground, it’s miserably cold and crawling with vermin, such as insects or rodents. In 1852, Baha'u'llah was thrown into such a terrible dungeon in Tihran, Persia (now Iran). It was called the Siyah-Chal, or the “Black Pit.” Baha'u'llah was not a criminal, but a follower of the Babi Faith, a new religion founded by a Messenger of God known as the Bab.

The Bab taught that another new Messenger of God would soon come. Persian officials wanted to stop the Bab’s teachings from spreading, because they believed they were a threat to the Islamic clergy and government. They arrested and executed Him and many of His followers. When some confused Babi youth attacked the shah (the king) in revenge for the Bab’s martyrdom, abuse toward the Babis increased. Innocent Babis, including Baha'u'llah, were imprisoned in the Black Pit.

Baha'u'llah described the prison as “a place foul beyond comparison.” Many prisoners, including thieves and murderers, were crowded with Baha'u'llah and the other Babis, most with no clothes or bedding. Baha’u'llah’s feet were placed in stocks, and at all times He was forced to wear one of two heavy chains around His neck— one weighed about 112 pounds (51 kg)! For three days and nights, He had no food or drink. Later, some of His food was poisoned by those who wanted to kill Him. The effects caused Him health problems for years.

Through these hardships, Baha'u'llah and the other Babis remained patient. Baha'u'llah taught them to sing, “God is sufficient unto me; He verily is the

= = =|

Prisoners of the “Black Pit” were chained and led through a dark corridor, then deep underground.

All-sufficing! In Him let the trusting trust.” The sound of their voices echoed through the dungeon and amazed the shah, who heard them from his palace near the prison.

Each day, guards called the name of a Babi to be executed. When unchained, he would leap to his feet, embrace Baha'u'llah and the other Babis, and go to his martyrdom with courage.

It was here, in the darkest place imaginable, that Baha'u'llah had a wondrous spiritual experience. He said, “I felt as if something flowed from the crown of My head over My breast, even as a mighty torrent...” In a vision, He heard a sweet voice, and saw a Maiden who pointed her finger at His head and said, “By God! This is the Best-Beloved of the worlds . . . the Beauty of God... the Mystery of God and His Treasure . . .” Baha’u'llah’s vision was the __ birth of a new religion, By, the Baha'i Faith. He was the Messenger of God promised by the Bab. About 10 years would pass before He would announce His station publicly.

After four long months in the Black Pit, Baha'u'llah was exiled from Persia. But He and His teachings endured, and His message of unity and peace spread throughout the world.

MAY/JUNE 2010 % Brilliant Star 3 [Page 4]magine a world where all the / sy ea anaes) houses everywhere were one style, shape, size, and color. Cities and towns would look so dull! And how would you remember which house was yours? Luckily, our planet has infinite styles of architecture, from skyscrapers to castles to cabins. Where you live expresses your culture—along with language, customs, food, celebrations, clothing, music, sports, games, } and art. All of these things make you unique. How does your } culture color your life? 7s To paint a picture of your culture, fi

Favorite pas ( or instrument

4 Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010

Favorite holiday 7s \ orcelebration "Sy

My religion ™S or beliefs

[Page 5]SS DO AS OES Appreciation Station

“If everybody could speak one language, how much more easy would it be to serve humanity!” —‘Abdu’l-Baha

ola! ;Cémo estd usted?” Wouldn't it be people of the world will agree on a universal language wonderful to step off a train in any to use, in addition to our native languages. This country and be able to ask questions and talk about will be a big step toward world peace, because we'll NY the new sights and sounds around you? Whether be able to share ideas in words we all understand. aN you're traveling or meeting a visitor from abroad, Until that day comes, learning to say things such as

greeting someone in their own language is a great way “Hello!” and “Thank you!” in different languages is to make friends. Baha'is believe that in the future, the a good way to start speaking the language of peace.

rr V

1 \

YY These travelers say “Thank you” in various ways. Find the

es

ln =i words going forward, backward, up, down, and diagonally.

AHEHEE (Navajo) ESHEO (Yoruba)

KIITTOS (Finnish) |

smmmmmeme ICU ete

HUKRAN (Arabic)

ARIGATO (Japanese) GRACIAS (Spanish) MERCI (Persian) SHUKRIYA (Hindi)

DANKE (German) GRAZIE (Italian) OBRIGADO (Portuguese) SPASIBO (Russian) \. DANKON (Esperanto) KAMSAHAMNIDA (Korean) SALAMAT (Tagalog) XIE XIE (Mandarin)

Ea 6 ae eS wa

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SSS" mil PNA NS ey ee Sle ae es. Of mS Se) 4, \o\ tn (AV eA Ia \ (el > 2eeg = A eNO SS) WY) SO n\n \ ts Ry AER 2 O/ @ ARPA) OO Ay NSALO Wer <= Se mig) eG) We aie > aii: | (oe SS maAaHaA xX KX MNO FP DH KKH ZED = V/ DiP> OO SSA) =) Pt Sh) SOS)

>

M G N 0 SS G Cc B [E 5 H E 0) G Z

Spanish: jHola! = Hello!; gComo esté usted? = How are you? MAY/JUNE 2010 Brilliant Star 5 [Page 6]i! It’s Zeke, from the planet Zilizag. My pet cultures, it can be tricky to know how to act. What's Rhombus and I are planning another trip to polite on Zilizag might be rude on a planet like search for peaceful planets. Some of our friends Narfblatt, or downright silly on Earth. are about to go on their first intergalactic adventure, There are so many different customs across the so I'm giving them some tips. On our own travels, galaxies, but some courteous practices are universal. we've learned so much about exploring planets with Here are some tips I like to share with other explorers. kindness and respect. When visiting new places and Check them out by using the Zilizag Decoder.

as much as you Be willing to

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Learn as much as you can in the native respect. Leave things as you saw them, and put

. “Hello” and your in the trash. COOGCHOCH O@©@o00nR - ” are a good start. Ask when @o00800 OHHoco@:HOo and you're not sure about something. Most people

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‘SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 26

Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010

6 [Page 7]CG

210s Cycle of Life in the Rainiores; ,

im

Vea

illions of species make up Earth’s incredible biodiversity. Animals, plants, and insects work together in amazing ways, forming

communities called ecosystems. A fascinating example of this is the Brazil nut

tree, which grows in the rainforests of South America.

Brazil nuts are seeds that grow in a hard pod, like a coconut, and they’re an important food for animals and people. A cat-sized animal called an agouti is one of the only creatures with teeth strong enough to chew through the pod. The agoutis eat some seeds and bury others, which then grow into new trees.

Brazil nut trees blossom only once a year.

The flowers have lids, and only very strong bees can open the lids to feed on the nectar and spread the flowers’ pollen. Once pollinated, the trees can produce nuts. The bees also depend on nearby orchids to survive.

Together, the Brazil nut trees, agoutis, bees, and orchids all rely on each other. They also help the rainforest thrive, which benefits all creatures—from jaguars to birds to people. As we discover more about nature’s ways, we can protect ecosystems like this one, and create a healthier planet.

RAINFOREST IS THE “LUNES OF OUR PLANET.” ABOUT

20 PERCENT OF THE

WORLI’S OXYGEN

1S NAVE HERE!

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 26

MAY/JUNE 2010 »% Brilliant Star 7 [Page 8]Best oF Unity

“The diversity in the human family should be the cause of love and harmony, as it is in music where many different notes blend

ive me a beat! The powerful sound of drums

can raise excitement, move us to dance, or

help us celebrate. But did you know drums have been used to create music, communicate messages, and honor special occasions since ancient times? In some cultures, drums are considered sacred and are played for healing or religious ceremonies.

From djembe drums of Africa, to taiko drums in

Japan, to tombak drums of Iran, people in diverse cultures create and play drums of various shapes and styles. In its basic form, a drum is a bowl or

LET’S CREATE HARMONY!

Youll Need Two sturdy 9 oz. (266 ml) plastic cups * paper plate « scissors + two 2 Y2" (6 cm) rubber bands + masking tape

together in the making of a perfect chord.” —‘Abdu'l-Bahé

tube made of a material such as pottery, wood, or metal. One or both ends have some kind of covering, called a head.

Across the globe, people of all ages and back- grounds gather in drum circles to create rhythm and foster unity and friendship. Each player adds their own beat to the mix. You can use items around your house to make your. own drum to play with your ( friends and family. :

Newspaper * white glue » unused 9" (23 cm) latex balloon « 3 ft. (91 cm) piece of yarn + water + paint « paintbrushes « tablespoon

Make YOur Own Drum

Cover your work area with newspaper. 1 Carefully cut off the bottoms of both cups with scissors.

—

Tear newspaper into stamp-sized pieces. Combine two tablespoons glue and two tablespoons water on plate. Dip paper in glue mixture and press smoothly to outside of drum. Continue until covered. Let dry overnight.

7 Wind rubber band twice around balloon edges. Wind other rubber band around center of drum.

a9 Sy

(

Cut open the side of one cup as shown. Remove 1/2" off one cut edge, then tape the edges back together.

Tuck one end of yarn under center band. q Keeping yarn taut, thread through upper and

center bands to make triangles around drum.

Knot ends and trim yarn.

Fit bottom of taped cup inside bottom of other cup and secure with tape.

Cut tail off deflated balloon so top portion is 2" (5 cm) long, Stretch to fit snugly over wider end.*

y Sf

Paint drum to cover 6 paper. When dry, paint with colorful designs.

To play, hold the drum in one hand. Use your free hand to make different sounds.

nae! aa Ey

8 Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010

You may notice a dimple due to the balloon’s shape. [Page 9]> 4 How Open-Minded Awe You?

“We must lay aside all prejudice—whether it be religious, racial, political or patriotic; we must become the cause of the unification of the human race.” —‘Abdu'l-Baha as anyone ever asked you to “keep an open of human rights. mind” about something? While your brain We all have some prejudices, doesn’t open or close, having an open mind —_ and we may not even realize it. But is like keeping a door open to new ideas. It means we can watch for them and overcome

you're willing to try new things and consider them. If you hear about a new idea and

other people’s ideas and points of view. feel your mind starting to close, tell yourself, “Wait! An open mind is important, because without I want to learn more about this before I decide.”

it, people can form unfair opinions before knowing Keeping your mind open can bring you lots of new

all the facts—and that’s prejudice. Strong prejudice ideas and experiences. It doesn’t mean you'll agree with

about people who look, talk, believe, or act in everyone or like everything you try. But you can have

different ways has caused violence and the loss a lot of fun exploring our wide, wonderful world.

Are you open to new ideas? Circle your answer for each statement, then add up your points.

1. | enjoy learning about different 5. When | disagree with someone, 9. If a kid at school is teased or bullied, people, countries, and cultures. | listen and try to understand | try to be a friend to them. Often=3 © Sometimes=2 © Rarely=1 their point of view. Often=3 © Sometimes=2 © Rarely=1

Often=3 © Sometimes=2 © Rarely=1 10. | get the facts and make up

6. | like to travel and see different my own mind about things, parts of my community, country, rather than just go along and world. with what others say. 2.1 think that everybody has Often=3 © Sometimes=2 © Rarely=1 Often=3 ¢ Sometimes=2 ¢ Rarely=1

valuable ideas to share with the world, no matter who they are. Often=3 © Sometimes=2 © Rarely=1

11. I'm willing to try new things, even if they're different from what | usually like, such as new foods, music, books, or games.

3. | respect different world

religions and their beliefs. 7. When | meet a new kid in school Often=3 ¢ Sometimes=2 ¢ Rarely=1 Often=3 © Sometimes=2 © Rarely=1 who looks or talks differently from me, I'm friendly and welcoming. 4. When | hear someone tell a Often=3 © Sometimes=2 ¢ Rarely=1 racist joke or insult people of a certain race, | speak up or 8. I'm kind and respectful to people change the subject. with disabilities. Often=3 © Sometimes=2 © Rarely=1 Often=3 © Sometimes=2 © Rarely=1

My Total Points: 33-26 points: You're doing an excellent job 25-18 points: You're keeping your mind 17-11 points: The doors of your mind

of keeping an open mind about people and —_ open most of the time. Look for ways to can be more open. Choose some tips ideas. Keep up the good work! let in even more new ideas. from the quiz and try them out.

MAY/JUNE 2010 ¥ Brilliant Star 9 [Page 10]Heritage of Humanity

ll over the world, cultural and natural treasures Organization (UNESCO) to highlight places with

help tell the story of our planet. Places such “outstanding value to humanity.” UNESCO encourages as the pyramids of Egypt, the Galapagos Islands countries to protect the sites and educate people about in Ecuador, and the Statue of Liberty in the U.S. help their history and significance. The World Heritage list us understand our long, often mysterious past. currently includes 890 sites in over 140 countries. It’s The World Heritage program was created by the up to all of us to preserve these amazing places, so United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural they can inspire future generations.

Check out the clues below and match them to these World Heritage sites.

& | Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

D | Machu Picchu, Peru F | Chateau of Chambord, France

€ Pik x E | The Great Wall, China

At over 3.6 miles tall (5,895 m), INS 35 Cie Gir te nites ates

ove i on Earth in the Bahd’i Faith. Starting in 1519, King Francois] built this is the tallest mountain From ae terraces of a this castle at his hunting grounds in in Africa. Climate change is Carmel, it overlooks Haifa Bay the Loire River valley. It has 440 rooms Gli) Wn HD Gis THR SD and the Mediterranean Sea. and 282 fireplaces.

to disappear

ZO

Gy) In the Sth century BCE, this _ _— ~~ It took many centuries to build this structure wos built primarily in hr in meres nontang is ete ee yrange er the Inca people. Terraces male from invaders. It stretches about ce a omens stability sal amaite fee ESS Catin GY ) — Ge) 10 _—Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010 Dib Any Noho ars) Tan Mon, ye ska

‘SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 26 [Page 11]OUR CONNECTIONS

The word “race” is used to refer to a group with similar traits or ethnic origins. But did you know that there’s no way to scientifically classify people by race? There are no genes that can identify you as belonging to a race.

No characteristic—not skin color or eye shape or hair texture—separates all members of one race from another. While there are many diverse people and cultures, there is only one human race.*

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

'z_ ‘ey i

EXPioRE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AND ITS €REATURES

“All the members of this endless univer: are linked one to anoth

WOW, REALLY?

Our Earth has traveled more than 5,000 miles (8,047 km)

in the past

five minutes.

Unplug it. About 5-10% of your home's electricity goes into a that are switched

off. Unplug your 239) electronics when ©

you aren't using them.

PROTECTING OUR PLANET . Ban Ki-moon, from South Korea, leads the United Nations as its Secretary-General. He travels the world, speaking out for global causes such as peace, human rights, and the environment. He says, “We have a chance [to] preserve our planet and build

a safer, cleaner, more prosperous and sustainable future for all.”

This creature is most active at night, when it comes out of its burrow. Some species can change color to match the sand. Fill in the blanks to find its spooky name:

H S RA

i” a

1. kk ‘WZ

Photos: Hands by Gelpi, Ban Ki-maon by World Economic Forum, dames by Dennis Babenko, crab by Eric sselée

Say ww pbs.orgi

NERS ON PAGE 26

MAY/JUNE 2010 »% Brilliant Star 11

[Page 12]Ww«x

Connect with kids around the world! How are they like you? How are they different? Each of us has a unique ¥ story to tell. What’s yours?

Eve R. * Age: Country I'd love to visit most: i te > Macau w I would like to visit

Israel so that I could

Best quality or virtue: see the Shrine of the Responsibility *« Bab, because it [is] a Baha'i holy place.

Hobbies or sports: Playing piano, singing, reading novels, riding

Favorite traditions or } ¢

celebrations in my family:

my bike, and playing Ayyam-i-Ha*...Ialso

[Settlers of] Catan (a like the Fast, because

great board game) I get [up] early and have a big breakfast of pancakes and bacon with my family.

Have you visited another country? If so, what did you like best about it?

Yes, I used to live in the [U.S.], but then my family pioneered** to Macau ..- Treally like ...that Ican walk almost everywhere I want to go. Lalso like learning

to sing songs and prayers in Chinese .. Pa

Zoe T. Age: 13

-

live in: Kampala, Uganda

Best quality or virtue: Honesty and kindness

Something | like about me: Tm friendly and outgoing. Hobbies or sports: Listening to music, texting, running (track), swim- ming, being with friends, chatting ...on Facebook, dancing, reading, going to Baha'i and school events/parties

Favorite animal or pet: Cheetah

| like to help people by: Understanding, listening to people’s situations,

and giving advice > a Country I'd love to visit most: Hawaii, because of its gor- geous beaches and luaus

... Seems like paradise!

Tevya V.

Age: 9 I live in: Illinois, U.S.

Best quality or virtue: Irecycle a lot and love

animals. »

Hobbies or sports: Swimming and puzzles

Favorite Baha’i activities: Art and community -” service

Onan adventure around the world, | would bring these three things:

I would take my cell phone...ajournal, and my little brother (Billy).

Do you think it’s important to make friends with people from different cultures?

It’s good to see how people do things differently, different beliefs and traditions. No one should be treated differently because of their back- ground and culture.

Favorite animal or pet: Allof them!

| like to help people by: Helping my classmates with work, and cleaning up the neighborhood

Country I'd love to visit most: I would love to visit

Japan to learn about Japanese culture. xX

On an adventure around the world, | would bring these three things:

A friend, a cell phone, three books

Have you visited another country? If so, what did

you like best about it? - The food, people, and clothes [in Mexico]

Do you think it’s important to make friends with people from different cultures?

Yes, because I love to lear about other ways of life.

Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010

12

February 26—March 1, days of hospitality, charity,
- When Bahai pioneer, they leave their home an travel to another place to live and tll people about the

Bandi Faith.

git-giving, and preparing for the Baha’ Fast [Page 13]Age: 10 I live in: California, U.S.

x

Something | like about me: Iama good athlete.

Best quality or virtue: Honesty

Favorite Baha’/ activities: Singing Ayyam-i-Ha* songs in the neighborhood

Favorite animal or pet: Great white shark

| like to help people by: Cheering them up when they feel sad.

Country I'd love to

visit most:

Mexico, to learn more Spanish language

Favorite traditions or celebrations in my family: Ayyam-i-Ha, because there is a scavenger hunt for presents each day...

Age: 9 | live in: Pennsylvania, U.S.

Best quality or virtue: Truthfulness, because it’s the foundation of all human virtues

Something | like about me: Ilike that Iam a Baha'i.

Hobbies or sports: Art, reading, writing

Favorite Baha'i activities: Teaching the Faith

Country I'd love to visit most: France, because it’s so pretty, and I heard they have really good food, and I really want to learn the language.

Favorite traditions or ® celebrations in my family: Ayyam-i-Ha’ .. . it’s the best time of year, because we have a huge party

pl

y On an adventure around the

world, | would bring these three things:

Healthy food, water, andamap

Have you visited another country? If so, what did you like best about it? Germany, and Israel for nine-day pilgrimage. [I liked] seeing the Baha'i gardens in Israel. And in Germany, seeing snow.

and invite everyone ...and an Ayyam-i-Ha fairy comes to our house and delivers presents to everyone there. It’s awe- some... My mom even comes to my class and tells everyone about why we celebrate Ayyam-i-Ha...

On an adventure around the world, | would bring these three things:

Clothes ...acamera, and my favorite prayer book

7 —__

“God has crowned you with honor and

verily the light thereof shall brighten

the whole world!”

Age:10 | live in: Missouri, U.S.

Something | like about me: Tm very trustworthy

Hobbies or sports: Games and basketball

| like to help people by: Holding doors and being kind

Country I'd love to

visit most:

Israel, because it’s the Holy Land. Also, I like the kind people there.

Onan adventure around the world, | would bring these three things:

Passports and tickets for the rides. Maybe

some money, just M

in case.

Have you visited another country? If so, what did you like best about it?

Europe ... we did lots there... [In] China—

Here’s how:

we enjoyed visiting relatives and [eating] foods there.

Have you ora friend ever been teased or excluded because of your culture or religion? Ijust told the teachers

at school and turned away to play with other friends instead.

Do you think it’s important to make friends with people from different cultures? Yes, because you can learn what they do... Maybe even learn anew language.

1, If you're age 7-14, write us at brilliant@usbnc.org or Brilliant Star, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201. Include your name, age, mailing address, phone number, and e-mail address.

/

«

2. When it’s your tum to shine, we'll send you questions and a form for you and your parents to sign.

3. Answer the questions and send them to us with the signed forms, along with at least two good- quality, close-up photographs of your smiling face. gs Photos should be in sharp focus and show your eyes clearly. Please don’t send color copies, low- resolution digital images, or copyright-protected images (like school portraits).

MAY/JUNE 2010 »% Brilliant Star

13 [Page 14]OSE Ss gO ae ge ™ Ss LIGHTNING BND LUNA S8 2 eR rirtine ;

—a SURE, BUT V7 YOU FORGET ABOUT MOM AND PANTER, REMEMBER HEY, THERE PONT YOU Jf] OAD BENG KIDNAPPED BECAUSE OF US? FF WHEN COLIN ASKED THEY ARE.

IF WE SAW LIGHTNING ; A IF AN ERASER DISCOVERED OUR TF THEY FIND OUT WE'RE AN? LUNA IN BRAZIL? UPLIFTERS, THEY COULD IVENTITIES AGAIN, THEY COUL? [ag

BE IN DANGER.

12

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OH, NO, BRIDGET, THE ART FAIR IS CANCELED. WHAT’S UP WITH OUR SCHOOL ‘ANDI JUST FINISHED MY CLAY BOWL FOR PAPER? THEY HAVEN'T PUBLISHED WOULDN'T STOP READING THAT BOOK - , 2

EVERYBODY'S PONG REPORTS ON. THE POTTERY CONTEST! THAT STINKS! "ANY NEN ISSUES LATELY.

YEAH, I'VE BEEN IT’S ACTUALLY FINISHING MY PRETTY COOL. PAINTING, TOO!

HI, GUYS. WE WERE ALMOST LATE. COLIN

WHO CAN RESIST ME? SOON, EVERYTHING AN? EVERYONE: WILL BE UNDER MY CONTROL.

EJ COLIN, PON’T

|| MOST OF THESE

ROBOTS LOOK THE SAME?

14 Brilliant Star #% MAY/JUNE 2010 *See Episode #19, MarctyApril 2007 to Episode #24, Jan/Feb 2008 [Page 15]BUT WHAT ABOUT THINKING

Al DR. DIXON DEVIOUS, YOU WROTE fh G FOR YOURSELF? AN? CREATIVITY? C| ‘THE BESTSELLER FITTING IN. BS A »

2 I - x5] K | SCIENTIST AND INEDIA EXPERT, WHY UST TIMGINE—IF THERE ARE NO | WAKE UP! MANY PEOPLE ARE JOBLESS. ] DID YOU WRITE A BOOK FOR YOUTH? CLIQUES—NO wocs, NO sNOBS, No OVER A BILLION LIVE IN POVERTY. NERDS—THERE’S NO BULLYING! COUNTRIES ARE AT WAR. HOW WILL GROWING UP, L HATED GETTING WITH MY WAY, THERE ARE NO OUTSIDERS, PAINTING A PRETTY PICTURE HELP US? ULLIED. NOW, T HAVE THE SOLUTION — SO KIDS WILL FIT IN AND BE HAPPY. TS CALLED CONFORMITY. | L

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ast [ SUDDEN LOSS OF INLLIONS OF WEB | SITES. INTERNET SERVICE IS DOWN, TES ae Kene. J || PicRUPTNE GLOBAL COWMUNICATION: TF LINAY, MY BOOK ISN'T THE sa AN AREVL = NUINBER ONE BESTSELLER KINO LISTENS TO HIS, FOR NO KEASON— POPCAST, 100. TONS

INTERFERING WITH TV BROADCASTS —KKKRRRGHHH

WE INTERRUPT THIS BROAVCAST FOR A BREAKING STORY ON...

MILLIONS OF WEBSITES UST DISAPPEARE? —— TWAT DOESN'T EVEN | ANOTHER MISSION? CAN'T THE COAST IS CLEAR, }L_SEEM POSSIPLE. YOU EAT DINNER FIRS ~

LIGHTNING. LET’S GO/ LIGHTNING ANP

LUNA, PLEASE REPORT TO H.9. WMEDIATELY.>

WILL THE UPLIFTERS DISCOVER DR. VEVIOUS’S EVIL PLAN

MAY/JUNE 2010 % Brilliant Star 15

[Page 16]ee Flags Around the World

Ft i, I'm Felipe. My favorite way to learn about other countries is by studying their flags. You can find cool facts about the history, culture, and geography

The blue bands stand for the clear sky in this South American country. The sun represents freedom.

AR NT A

The blue stands for the sea and sky, and gold is for the beaches of this island nation in the Caribbean Sea. The trident symbolizes the mythical sea god Neptune.

B R A os

This country near China is known as “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” The

two colors represent the government and the Buddhist religion.

BH Tt

The star represents unity among the diverse people of this African nation, where about 100 languages are spoken. The blue stands for peace.

_TH_ oP_

This flag represents the harmony of a group of countries. The circle stands for unity, and the 12 stars stand for perfection.

_UR_P__N U_ION

The cedar tree on this flag is an ancient symbol of this Middle Eastern country. It represents strength, might, and fortitude.

L B N

of a country from its flag. Colors and symbols can stand for principles like peace or freedom. Natural elements like snow, the sun, or the sky are shown in simplified forms. National emblems, religious symbols, or native animals also give clues about the country. These colorful flags can show the diversity of nations on our planet.

This Asian nation has over 7,000 islands. The sun symbolizes unity and independence, and the stars represent three main groups of islands.

P__L_PP__ s

Green is for hope and red is for courage. The sphere is a navigational tool representing this European country’s tradition of historic explorations

to other lands.

P_R_UG_L

The circle on this Asian flag stands for the dual forces of life, such as old and new, or male and female. Its country is on a peninsula.

S_U_H __R_A

16 Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010

‘SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 26 [Page 17]aHinwart

Ne ws

n her desert home, a young Navajo girl studies | & movements of her mother’s hands as she weaves long reeds into a basket. The art of

basketry has been passed down for generations in the American Southwest. The finished basket will be a useful and beautiful symbol of her people’s history and culture.

Around the world, about 370 million people come from native or indigenous cultures. Their

/

LWAS CARVE? FROM THE NUT OF A TAGUA PALM TREE THAT GROWS IN THE CENTRAL AMERICAN RAINFOREST.

TWAS HAN? PAINTED? WITH BRUSH MAVE FROM YUCCA LEAVES GROWN IN THE DESERTS OF ARIZONA.

>

———

WAS CARVE? FROM ONE PIECE

BENT INTO SHAPE. I’M FROM THE WORLD’S SECOND LARGEST

TM NAVE FROM WOVEN STRANDS OF PEWTER AND LEATHER. MY COUNTRY 1S NEAR NORWAY.

<% oe ae 2

COUNTRY, IN TERMS OF TOTAL AREA.

traditional ways of life include a wealth of hand- made arts and crafts, using natural materials and techniques that have been perfected over time.

However, many indigenous people face extreme poverty and discrimination. Traditional customs, languages, and wisdom are in danger of disappearing. Learning about native arts can help us understand and appreciate these ancient cultures. They add to the joy and creativity of our human family.

Read the clue for each craft to discover its country. Write in the matching numbers below.

IN MY COUNTRY, WHERE KANGAROOS ROAM, ABORIGINAL ARTISTS USE THE BARK FROM A STRINGYBARK TREE AS A CANVAS.

EDCH COLOR OF MY BEADS HAS SPECIAL MEANING TO MY AFRICAN PEOPLE. JEWELRY LIKE ME CAN SHOW A PERSON’S ROLE IN THE GROUP.

LWAS CRAFTED FROM A MOL? MAVE USING BEESWAX ANZ

CLAY. MY ART FORM HAS BEEN Ff

USED FOR OVER 4,000 YEARS

—| INMY SOUTH ASIAN NATION.

OF CEPAR THAT WAS STEAMED? AND

TM NAVE FROM A DRIED GOURP- THAT WAS ETCHED WITH A CARVING. ge 100L CALLED A BURIL. MY HOME IS

—_

Some of these crafts are also made by native groups other than those shown.

India i =~, Panama t Canada ° ee pe, Henya | 5 lnited States <== < S = 7

MAY/JUNE 2010 »% Brilliant Star

1 [Page 18]KHALIL FONG

halil Fong is a soul-pop star who is taking the Asian music scene by storm, with sold-out concerts full of cheering fans. “Fong’s concerts are cherished events that attract industry people and music aficionados” writes the Taipei Times. The publication also says, with “his smoldering voice and his beautifully crafted .. . songs, he has been conquering radio and television in Taiwan.” Another journalist calls him “one of the best musicians to come out of the Hong Kong music scene in recent years.”

Khalil, who is 26, was born in Hawaii. When he was six, he and his family moved to China, in part to connect with their Chinese culture. Khalil started writing music in his teens and taught himself to play piano and guitar.

At 19, he was hired by Warner Music Hong Kong as a songwriter. Warner later released his first CD, Soul Boy. Khalil has since produced five CDs in three languages — Mandarin, English, and Cantonese. He’s won many awards in Hong Kong, where he lives with his family. He has also been honored as a

Q. What's your favorite childhood memory?

Going to farmers’ markets in Hawaii and having

fresh coconut [from] this guy named Coconut Joe. He would climb the coconut trees . . . [and] sell them in his small truck. He'd have this big cane knife, and he’d just cut the top open and give you a straw, and you'd have the coconut juice. And after you finished, he’d cut it in half, and you'd have the coconut meat.

Q. How did you know you wanted to be a performer? When I was three or four, I saw .. . a film about Ritchie Valens, who really made that song “La Bamba” famous during the ’50s . . . After seeing that film, I wanted to be a singer . . . It was like kids [who] see a movie about firemen, or they really admire policemen or superheroes . . . Kids grow up wanting to be them. For me, it was like that with Ritchie Valens and rock stars. So since four, I loved singing. I started off listening to .. . 50s music after that . . . plus some '70s Soul/R&B [Rhythm and Blues] . . . some jazz... And also at that time, everyone was pretty crazy about Michael Jackson. So there was a period of three or four years when I actually impersonated Michael Jackson.

top musician in Korea, Taiwan, China, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Left: At about two years old in Hawaii, Khalil was following in his father’s footsteps as a drummer. Right: Khalil, at age 11 in Hong Kong, practicing the Chinese martial art of wushu.

Q. How would you describe your music to the kids who haven't heard it yet?

It’s Soul/R&B with a little bit of everything, but mainly Soul/R&B in Mandarin, and occasionally I do some English songs . . . In the States or in the Western world, people have heard a lot of Soul/ R&B. But mainly in Asia, it’s pretty rare... So I'm just trying to introduce Soul/R&B to the people in China, in Malaysia, and Mandarin-speaking areas.

Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010

18 [Page 19]i7~ Bs

zey

NZER

ational Baha’

G3 STAR

Q. You're doing a lot at a young age.

Oh, I don’t know. A lot of youngsters are really coming about, and [there is] really so much talent on the Internet. You just click on YouTube, and I’m surprised often [by] the talent that’s out there. It’s quite something ... Sometimes you wonder, “Why am I the one singing?”. . . So I think it’s really cool these days to have things like Facebook and YouTube. . . [It’s]

a good way for people to gain knowledge of what other musicians are doing on the other side of the world.

Q. How would you sum up the message or messages

that you want to convey to people with your music? First, being positive is one of the main overviews or topics that I like to write about, [and] some social issues . . . I like to write about life in general, so whatever I see or hear, and if I can find a good melody to go with it, then I like to write about it .. . I try to incorporate Baha’i perspectives in my music, although I don’t directly talk about religion . . . But I try to bring that kind of culture into my music.

Q. What advice do you have for kids who want

to be professional musicians? I would say, practice. Practice is the best way, and to listen to a lot of music . .. And be flexible. A lot of people might want to be into the whole superstar thing. I think these days, it’s more sing and be happy... Live your life positively and try to do some good in your work, and perfect your craft, whatever it is.

sacl

An interview with an ins

Top: Khalil sings from his latest album, Timeless, in Hong Kong in 2009. The concert was sold out. PHOTO BY LUCY CHEN Bottom: Khalil performs with Grammy-winner Jason Mraz at

a concert in 2009. PHOTO BY CHRIS CHAN

Q. If you had one wish for readers of Brilliant Star, what would it be?

In Chinese, we have a saying . . .“Good Health and

Prosperity.” During the [Chinese] New Year, we

always say that ... So “Good Health and Prosperity,”

and spiritual health at the same time.

Q. In this issue of Brilliant Star, we're talking about unity in diversity. How would you encourage kids to

deepen their appreciation for cultural diversity? Being a traveler, I've met a fair amount of different types of people, and I find that the more you get to know people, the more you learn that everyone’s really just about the same. You learn to differentiate cultural habits . . . [from] what everyone is really looking for in their hearts. I think that’s really good. It’s really easy to sort of make friends. It’s really easy

to understand conflict, because a lot of conflict is just a product of our habits clashing. It helps to see things from a different perspective, and I think being in a diverse situation also enables you, or challenges you, to get into other people’s minds— in a good way—and to see how other people think and actually apply that to your daily life.

MAY/JUNE 2010 »% Brilliant Star

19 [Page 20]MUSIC CAFE

“Music, sung or played, is spiritual food for soul and heart.” —Baha’i Writings

UNDERSTAND EACH OTHER’S WORDS, BUT WE ALL SPEAK THE LANGUAGE OF

LLOVE MAKING FRIENDS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD. WE MAY NOT ALWAYS ¢ MUSIC, AND IT BRINGS US CLOSER TOGETHER. MUSIC CAN MAKE...

A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE sis00: <a

0 Verse “8 ro ——=_— fey 4 = £ == £ ————— assis N e z eS rn ae a 7 es 4 1 From Mex-i-co to Eng- land, Chi-na to__ Pe - ru__ From —— = = r ——— : = i ol Zz — oe eer ve v wv 7 Ger-man-y to In - di - a There are peo-ple like me and you_ From Pak-i-stan to E- gypt From == == = 3 : ————— — — a 19 Is-ra-el__ to Spain Though we have dif - ferent lan - gua-ges__We’re real-ly all the same Chorus = =a! =e eee EEE iS oot H oe Se = 2 gow Sats eo z One We are o - ne We are o - ne in a world of difference One We are one 15 eh it = T +t T a T SSS { {= = ioe z x ——— i — onl i 2 { [C= = a ee t Fee ee é or a F eT ah = emo a _ We are one__ in a world of lo - ve Hum Nana na_nana na Na na na_na na 20 T t

———[edit]

o_o o_o ¢ «— “o = - = 9 na in aworld of dif- ference Hum Na na na na na 23 a _p Back to beginning rai i = i ———— T = t — z | t | it t = a ee = a 5 na Na na na__ na na na in aworld of lo - ve

2 From Canada to Russia, Belize to Afghanistan From North to South Korea...oh, let us understand From America to Cuba, Barbados to Congo No matter where we come from There’s one thing we must know

Chorus © Chant

3 From Greece to Ethiopia, Guatemala to Thailand From Kenya to Morocco we are one race human From Chile to Jamaica, Australia to Iran We share one sun, one life, one dream For peace in every land

Chorus (2x)

a

Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010

20

id you know there’s a whole world to explore , Tight in your own kitchen? Whether you sprinkle cinnamon in your oatmeal or oregano on your pizza, you use herbs and spices from around the world. Since ancient times, herbs and spices have been used for food, medicine, and perfume. As people traveled to other lands, they began to share and trade spices. This led to explorations around the globe. Spices come from the seeds, bark, and fruits of plants, while herbs are the leaves. It’s often a mix of herbs

and spices that give foods their unique flavors. A rice dish in India might be made with garam masala, a blend with cardamom, cloves, and cumin. Rice in Liberia might use red and black pepper and thyme. Ever notice how some countries’

a

foods tend to be spicy? In one study, scientists found that places with hotter climates use more spices than cooler lands—and health may be the reason. Since herbs and

ae

Fruit We Thought

“Human tastes differ; thoughts, native lands, races and tongues are many . . . It is possible, however, for all to become unified through one spirit, just as all may receive light from one sun.” —‘Abdu'l-Baha

.from the elu of Thy mercy hom rains of Thy healing...

The Spice of Life

spices such as garlic, oregano, and cinnamon can kill harmful bacteria, they believe people used spices through the ages to stay well.

Herbs and spices support health in other ways, too. Cloves have been used by dentists to numb pain. Ginger is used to ease nausea and help digestion. Garlic is high in antioxidants, substances that can protect your body’s cells. Studies have even shown that people who eat more garlic seem to have a lower risk for some types of cancer.

Try exploring your spice cabinet. With so many flavors at your fingertips, you can enjoy the unique tastes around the world, and

add a little more spice to your life.

Curiesity banopy

What spice is known as the “king of spices"?

Yummy Guacamole! , vocados have been a staple ¥ food in Mexico and Central and South America since 500 BCE. They're also full of nutrients. Spices help give this guacamole recipe its distinct flavor.

3 avocados—peeled and pitted 1 lime, juiced 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup diced onion 2 small tomatoes, diced 1 teaspoon minced garlic 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional) 1 pinch ground cayenne pepper (optional)

Tn a medium bowl, mash avocados with lime juice and salt, leaving some avocado in chunks. Mix in onions, tomatoes, garlic, cilantro, and cayenne pepper. Serve with tortilla chips, veggies, or salad. jBuen provecho!

Answer: Black pepper. It's the best-selling spice in the US., and it's used in dishes all over the world. Most pepper is grown in Vietnam, India, Brazil, and Indonesia. Although it's common now,

peppercorns were once so valuable they were used as money!

Spanish: ; Buen provecho! = Enjoy your meal!

MAY/JUNE 2010 »% Brilliant Star 21 [Page 22]hat do you think your life would be like if your parents and

grandparents had been slaves? Louis Gregory was born in 1874, just nine years after his mother

and grandmother were freed from slavery at the end of the U.S. Civil War. His father died of tuberculosis when Louis was small. His mother worked as a tailor to support Louis and his brother.

Louis’s family stayed strong in the face of poverty, suffering, and injustice. His grandfather was killed by the Ku Klux Klan, a white terrorist group. But his grandmother refused to be filled with hatred. She helped teach Louis to face challenges with courage and dignity.

In 1881, his mother married George Gregory, who was supportive and became “a real father” to Louis. He encouraged Louis to get the best education possible.

“Changed for the Better” After high school, Louis earned a bachelor’s degree from Fisk University in Tennessee. He was one of very few African Americans to achieve this goal at the time. He soon decided to be a lawyer. There were few opportunities for African Americans to study law, but Louis was able to earn his law degree from Howard University

SHINING LAMP

A Baha‘i who served humanity with radiance

LOUIS GREGORY: Golden-Hearted Promoter of Justice

Louis Gregory wrote, “Wherever in the world today there is hatred of class for class, nation for nation, race for race, tragedy lurks.”

in Washington, D.C., in 1902. He practiced law in Washington and also worked for 10 years in the U.S. Treasury Department.

Like many of his peers, Louis was concerned about the common injustice and violence toward African Americans. He spoke out against racial segregation and promoted equal rights.

Louis had sought religious truth, but had given up hope of finding it. Then he heard about the Baha’i Faith and felt drawn to its teachings on racial equality. After studying the Faith for more than a year, he became a Baha'i in 1909 at age 35.

He said that because of the Baha’i Faith, “my whole nature seems changed for the better.”

Working for Race Unity

In 1911, Louis traveled to Egypt to meet ‘Abdu'l-Baha, the leader of the Baha’i Faith at that time. ‘Abdu’l- Baha urged him to work for unity and harmony between the races.

Louis did just that. He traveled throughout the U.S. speaking about the Baha’i Faith and race unity. He was a powerful speaker. In 1916, Louis gave up his law practice to travel and speak full-time.

Louis married Louisa Matthew, a white English Baha’i, in 1912. Interracial marriage was uncommon in the U.S. and even against the law in many areas, so they often couldn't travel together safely. They had long, difficult periods of separation.

Louis and Louisa finally retired to Maine in 1946. Louis passed away in 1951. Shoghi Effendi, who led the Baha’i Faith after ‘Abdu’l- Baha’s passing, wrote that he grieved the “loss of dearly beloved, noble-minded, golden-hearted Louis Gregory...” He appointed Louis a Hand of the Cause of God.* Today, several schools are named for Louis, including the Louis G. Gregory Baha'i Institute in South Carolina, and his childhood home is now a museum.

22

Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010

A Hand of the Cause of God was a Baha’ who served

the Bahd’ community in significant ways, including encouraging others in teaching and protecting the Faith [Page 23]PEOPLE ARE LIKE A RADIANT RAINBOW!

COLORS OF HUMANITY

OY G. BIV—have you used this acronym to remember the colors of the rainbow? It stands

for red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo,

ry and violet. Though sunlight appears white, it can

_ actually separate into bands of color.

Like a rainbow, humanity has a wide spectrum of diversity. We have physical differences, and we come from many different countries, cultures, and

backgrounds. Each of us has unique ways of thinking and expressing ourselves. But just as all the colors of a rainbow come from the sun’s light, each individual belongs to the same human family.

Every day, we can share our unique talents, strengths, and ideas, and we can learn from one another. The more we all live and work in unity, the more light we bring to the world.

ia ae ae aol

MAKE YOUR OWN RAINBOW

a Sana

You'll Need: Clear glass bowl or dish about 7" (18 cm) wide and 3" (7.5 cm) tall Round mirror about 5 2" (14 cm) + clear water * UV sunglasses * room with brightly sunlit window

CAUTION: Even with sunglasses, never look directly at the sun or its reflection in the mirror. The sun’s powerful rays can damage your sensitive eyes.

1. Pour water in the dish until it’s about two-thirds full.

2. Place the dish near a sunny window on the floor or a table.

4. Make sure the mirror is angled toward the sun. The sun’s light should shine into the mirror.

3. Put on your sunglasses and place the mirror inside the dish, partly submerged in the water.

5. Remove your sunglasses. Now look for one or more rainbows on the ceiling or walls.

HOW RAINBOWS WORK

hy do we most often see rainbows on rainy days?

Sunlight contains waves of light in different lengths, or wavelengths, and these wavelengths can appear as different colors. When the sun comes out and its white light enters a raindrop, the waves bend, or refract, in varying amounts, depending on their length. This causes the waves to separate into the colors of the rainbow.

To learn more about rainbows, see www.cs.dartmouth.edu/farid/sciencekids/rainbow. html

Refraction Raindrop

@ Sunlight | \ ~~ — —_t nl \

Reflection

ee Se

Rainbow Out =

—_

To make it easier to follow the wavelengths, only two of the seven colors of the rainbow are shown in this raindrop. You can usually find a rainbow when the sun is low in the sky and shining from behind you, onto a distant rain shower.

MAY/JUNE 2010 % Brilliant Star

23 [Page 24]MAY 2010 ¢ 167 Baha’i Era

mission. His name was Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad. Throughout His youth, He was known for His

excellent character, wisdom, and devotion to God. During this time, many people awaited a new Messenger of God promised by Christianity and Islam. In May 1844, Siyyid ‘Ali-Muhammad announced that He was this promised Messenger. He became known as the Bab, meaning “the Gate” in Arabic. He prepared the world for the next Messenger of God —Baha’u'llah—Who would bring a S A new age of peace. On May 23, Baha’is celebrate the Declaration of the Bab with prayers and fellowship.

pa GF |: 1819, a child was born in Shiraz, Persia (now Iran), Who would later carry out an extraordinary = 5 ~ ¢

Sunday Monday TueSday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Every 19 days,

Baha’i Feast by) pve j -

is held on or », 4) My Goal for the Month: near the first day of the Baha’i month.

i v \Z.ca : A TWELFTH DAY ra ¢ = 3 World Migratory Bird F : Day (UN, May 8—9) oF RIDVAN : Cinco de Mayo Many of the 1,500 Honors Bahau'llah's \ y u " (Mexico, U.S.) species of migratory departure from Join in the celebration )

birds suffer from loss Baghdad, Iraq \ of Mexican heritage. 4 6 i\ lina of habitat, Wl

\ geal MEANS... Mother's Day x Whether she’s Mom, Gogmo’s Word Challenge \ International Day Madre, or Mama, a) To descend a cliff using a rope of Families (UN) make something b) Harmonious relationship ie Take a nature walk

Special for her today. c) Awritten document with your family.

19 20 21 22

BAHA'I Shavuot World Day for

(Judaism, a Cultural Diversity MONTH OF May 19-20) } | for Dialogue and ‘AZAMAT % Honors Moses 1 Development (UN) (GRANDEUR) giving the Jewish Promotes unity

scripture, or Torah. in diversity

24 v Ye 28 ,

heme ae a ih ASCENSION OF = hy Sia: BAHA’U'LLAH me dB = yt In 1892, Baha'u'llah

DECLARATION OF THE BAB

Memorial Day More than 1,500 (U.S.) languages are OS spoken in Africa. African elephants’ ears are shaped " passed into the next 30 31 much like the continent of Africa. ‘| (life at 3:00 am. WANs f

24 Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010 [Page 25]JUNE 2010 ¢ 167 Baha’i Era

here might you find hip-hop dancers, Chinese acrobats, American Indian

storytellers, Caribbean bands, and a spread of Mediterranean food all

in one park? At a Race Unity Day celebration! On the second Sunday of June, Race Unity Day honors the cultural diversity of our human family. The holiday was started by the Baha'is of the U.S. in 1957 to build unity and friendship among people of different backgrounds. It’s celebrated with parties, parades, plays, picnics, and other events as diverse as the people who participate in them.

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

srr Dil? =: £ Baha’ Feast BAHA’L

is held on or My Goal for the Month:

5 Gogmo’s Word Challenge MONTH OF TeEWD tS) a) Friendship, fellowship NUR day of the b) Tool for recording visual images Baha'i month. c) Tea made from dried flowers (LIGHT)

Caher, Te , ‘ 10, 2 Did you know?¢ World Oceans: eo Lem: Orcas (or killer a 0 Day (UN) ne 1.

~ Ye whales) are actually Sy O The Pacific a the world’s largest Co Ocean covers Tee i dolphins, . », one-third of ie) SU. earth’s surface. 13 «4A

19

World Day to Combat

Did you know? Soccer is the most

South Africa. S:: ‘¢ popular sport on

the planet.

Race Unity Day Flag Day (U.S.)* a duneteenth (U.S.) (US. Baha'i) The first U.S. flag Desertification (UN) Honors the actual was adopted on this Learn how climate end of slavery day in 1777 _ change has damaged

y_land around the world.

20 21 (@ Z 26

World Refugee National Aboriginal True or false? Did you know? Day (UN) Day (Canada) “America” comes Insects are the Celebrate Canada’s from Italian explorer NGNTHIOR = Most diverse Father's Day native people ‘Amerigo Vespucci. RAHMAT animals, with (MERCY) 750,000 species! Summer Solstice

PAV’S FAVORITE

27 23 WHAT’S YOUR Canadian — >, o Multiculturalism Day 3 \=9/ In 1971, Canada =). wy)

was the first country Did you know? to adopt a multi- In Asia, it's impolite to play with your chopsticks, culturalism policy. make noise with them, or use them to spear food.

MAY/JUNE 2010 »% Brilliant Star

Check out flags around the world on page 16.

[Page 26]R

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WHY DIP THE UNITY SOCCER TEAM WIN THE MOST GAMES?

"S¢ Look for clues throughout the magazine.

COSM

4. “Thank you" in Japanese (p. 5)

9. Khalil says, “Live your life in your work ..." (p.19)

10. The World program highlights places with “outstanding value to humanity." (p. 10)

and try to do some good

11. Letters that stand for the colors of the rainbow (p. 23)

14. Mingway and Eve would both like to visit this country. (pp. 12-13)

16. “Thank you" in Arabic (p. 5)

17. The flag of Bhutan has a on it. (p. 16)

19. World's most popular sport (p. 25)

20. Louis Gregory spoke out against racial segregation and promoted equal - (p. 22)

21. "Esheo" means “thank you" in this West African language. (p. 5)

FROM OUR MAILBOX

| like the Lightning and Luna comics ... Lespecially like the idea of good against evil. But what | like most about it is that the villain comes up with some evil plan or scheme or something, and the Uplifters foil his or her plans. Evil shall never triumph! —Stewart A., age 11, Texas, U.S.

—_—_—_—_—_—_—_—_ =.

THE PLAYERS IE SANE GOAL!

1. When animals, plants, and insects work together, they form

. (p.7) 2. When traveling, learn as much as you can in the native . (p. 6) 3. Tevya loves to learn about other __f life. (p. 12)

5. Around the world, about 370 million people come from

native or

cultures. (p. 17)

6. Known as the "King of Spices" (p. 21)

7. There are many diverse cultures, but only one

8. Earth's magnificent range of living things is its

12. In some cultures,

race. (p. 11)

-(p.27) are considered sacred and

are played for special ceremonies. (p. 8)

13. Keeping your and experiences. (p. 9)

15. Race

open can bring you lots of new ideas

Day was started by the Baha'is in 1957. (p. 25)

18. An agouti is one of the only creatures with teeth strong enough to chew through the Brazil pod. (p. 7)

Page: Binocular at botom right, camera at bottom, le, daypack at enter, quidebook at centr lt, hat at top right, mapa top le, passport al center righ, pens at bottom right, sketchbook at center right

Page 6: 1) know, culture; 2) mind, customs; 3) language, thanks; 4) smile, greet; 5) try, foods; 6) gestures, meanings; 7) environment, litter; 8) questions, learn

Page 7:) flower at top right; B) bee atop right; C) orchid at top center; D) agouti at bottom center; E) seed pod al top right, nea parol

F) agouti burying nut at bottom right; G) roots of sapling at botlom right H) frog at center let

Page 10: 1) B, 2) A, 3) F,4) D,5)E, 6) C

Page 11: Moscow, Russia; Ghost Crab

Page 16 (lft to right): 1) Argentina, 2) Ethiopia, 3) Philippines, 4) Barbados, 5) European Union, 6) Portugal, 7) Bhutan, 8) Lebanon, 9) South Korea

Page 27: Cardinal flower a bottom let, butterfly weed at bottom eft, wood lily at top center, giant sunflower at center right, oldenrod at center, wild bergamot at bottom right, white prairie aster at bottom center, great biue lobelia at centr let, ireweed at center

Page 28:1) Balance, 2) amily, 3) diverse 4 consul,

5) homework, 6) humor, 7) peaetul, 8) respect, 9) Search, 10) scared, 11) need, 12) histoy

Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010

26 [Page 27]ete

ave you ever crunched into a fruit or ei you grew yourself? Do you eagerly wait for your garden plants and flowers to spring to life? Tending a garden can be magical. It can give you a glimpse of Earth’s magnificent range of living things, or biodiversity. Millions of plants and animals add to nature’s beauty and health, just as diverse people and cultures enrich humanity. Sadly, many species are threatened with extinction due to things such as pollution and loss of habitat. But planting a biodiverse garden creates a refuge with food

~ Cardinal Flower

wood Lily

Gfant Sunflower sy

ies Backyard Biodiversity ~~”

“Consider the flowers of a garden. Though differing in kind, color, form, and shape, yet ... this diversity increaseth their charm, and addeth unto their beauty.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahd

In this biodiverse garden in the midwestern U.S., find nine kinds of native flowers.

Ni OE 2 =) ae (Arye

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ee My

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and shelter for local creatures. It has grasses, flowers, shrubs, and trees that grow naturally in the area. Together, they attract birds and insects that help the plants grow. Biodiverse gardens support human health by providing nutritious fruits and vegetables. But did you know growing your own food helps the environment by reducing energy use and pollution from transportation and factories? When you create a garden, you're caring for yourself, your family, and the creatures that share our world. Imagine the wonderful things you can grow!

Goldenrod

Great Blue fia

Fireweed

Raf 6.

Wild White Bergamot Prairie Aster

i i ae * nice

NEED THE SAME AMOUNT OF WATER, ANZ SUN OR SHADE.

OS fw) A

Lobel ” ze

‘SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 26

MAY/JUNE 2010 % Brilliant Star [Page 28]=

My.

SWATCH WITH WISDOM)

=>

ow many teachers do you have? There are H your math, science, and art teachers. Your

parents are your teachers, too. But there’s another powerful teacher: your television.

You can learn a lot from TV shows about the universe, ocean life, or explorers in history. But some TV shows can teach negative things—and you may not even be aware of it.

Do you think carefully about what you see on TV? On your favorite shows, do only boys play sports? Are the girls just interested in clothes and jewelry? If so, you're seeing stereotypes—assumptions that all people in a group are alike. When you watch shows that promote stereotypes or prejudice against a group, it can be easy to start believing them. TV can be fun, but you have to use your head and think for yourself.

Check out the televisions below. Fill in the words that complete the tips about watching TV with wisdom.

TV time with activities such as

playing outside, reading, and being with friends.

. Watch with your _ _, and talk about

the shows you see.

. Look for shows where people of backgrounds play strong, intelligent characters.

.. List shows you'd like to watch, and with your parents about the best choices.

. Turn off the TV during family meals or when doing

. Find programs where the is friendly,

rather than based on insults.

1. Choose programs and cartoons where characters find _ solutions to problems.

8. Look for programs where kids treat their parents with _

Eh _ _ for special programs about

your interests, such as science, art, or nature.

1D. Avoid violent shows that make you feel _ in real life.

Tl. Watch out for commercials that can make you think you _ _ _ the latest gadget or unhealthy food.

12. Is TV telling you the true story? Research the facts _ to find out for sure.

Brilliant Star % MAY/JUNE 2010

28

‘SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 26

[Page 29]HCG OOOO] ADVENTURE

“All may be seen to be the parts of the same tree— the great tree of the human family For mankind may be likened to the branches, leaves, blossoms and fruit of that tree.” —‘Abdu'l-Baha

rll ave you ever drawn your family tree? When Around the globe, we create fun music, languages, you do, you can discover amazing things about art, games, clothes, and foods. No matter where

your heritage. And if you could trace that tree back you live or what your background, you can learn far enough, scientists say you'd find that we all have about and taste those fruits of human creativity. common ancestors who lived in Africa long ago. Though our cultures are different, we can live

We're all part of one human family, with a together in harmony. So explore the human family wonderful variety of cultures and ways of life. tree, and celebrate our diversity.

Visit the friends playing in harmony, then find your way to the top of the tree.

ht ; Ss MAY/JUNE 2010 % Brilliant Star 29

[Page 30]Vs “When you meet those whose opinions “Tae differ from your own, do not turn away te your face from them. All aré seeking truth, itn and there are many roads leading thereto.” = —Abdul-Baha

Brilliant Star/Volume 42/Issue 2/Text

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