Brilliant Star/Volume 42/Issue 3/Text

[Page -1]

Star .

JULY/AUGUST 2010

iG EXPLORERS : ;

a NION FOR YOUN f

° ca ‘ Br A BAHA'I COMPA! ee o

Q-

>

[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 Sabra Agahi © Nia Beane « Lisa Blecker Hayley Dickson # Geraldine Guilfoyle Gabby Hawse * Michael Horvich Mehr Mansuri « Milkshake Arvid Nelson Donna Price ® Lara Regan ® Mike Relph Cameron Sabet # Ryan Shariati Carole Nkouaga Udziela ® Maya Wong

Original illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted. By Lisa Blecker: Activity at for p. 8

Historical photos courtesy of National Bahl Archives, unless noted

Story and activity credits: By Amy Renshaw: 2,6, 7, 11, 14, 23, 24, 26, 29 By Susan Engle: 5, 12, 18, 20, 28 By Annie Reneau: 3, 4, 10, 22 By Lisa Blecker: 8, 9 By Donna Price: 27

Brilliant Star magazine invites all kids to explore the Baha'i Faith. Itis 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'lléh 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 Bahd's 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)

Intemational 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, Brilliant Star, 1283 Central St, Evanston, IL 60201 Teachers may photocpy 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 Baha‘u'llah’s kindness changed hearts in Baghdad.

Riley’s Rainforest What are your favorite ways to express your feelings?

Maya’s Mysteries What do anger and volcanoes have in common?

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 39 Can the Uplifters stop Dixon Devious and the Erasers?

Stargazer: Mehr Mansuri Helping kids take leading roles on stage and in life

Music Café What if there were a statue of you?

Nur’s Nook Now it’s time to make a rhyme!

Shining Lamp: William Sutherland Maxwell Expressing art through architecture

Calendars What's special about July and August?

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

aMAZEing ADVENTURE Overcome monsters as you find the Castle of Confidence.

[Page 1]NOW TINATIONS

PRINTED WITH SOY INK|_

The Magic of You Check out the secret recipe for Expression Elixir.

Rate How You Communicate Quiz yourself on your speaking and listening skills.

Exploring My World How well do you know yourself?

A Box About Me Create a self-expression box about the one and only you!

Taking the Stage Focus a spotlight on your unique talents.

Who’s in Your Pack? Wolves can teach us about communication and unity.

New Superhero Suits for the Uplifters Express your creativity in our new design contest!

Camp Creativity Can your hobbies lead to a cool career?

Light of Kindness Which neighborhood makes you feel at home?

Putting Out the Gossip Fire Unscramble the words to quench backbiting.

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

?

CIEIND Would you rather sing a song or paint a picture? Shoot some hoops or plant some trees? Help a friend or rescue an animal? Maybe you’d like to do them all—and more!

When you share your talents, ideas, and virtues with others, you’re expressing yourself. Through your words and actions, you convey what's unique about you.

It’s fun to explore new ways to communicate, create, and connect with others near and far. In this issue of Brilliant Star, make a self-expression box to celebrate you and your interests. Take a quiz on your communication skills. Find out how your emotions can be like a volcano. Write your own funny poem with Nur the Firefly. And meet Mehr Mansuri,

who helps set the stage for kids to express their dramatic talents.

You are unique, and your skills are like jewels ready to be polished. What are your favorite ways to make them shine?

With love from Brilliant Star

[Page 2]hat if there were a magic potion that

Yr. would instantly make you the most popular, most athletic, or smartest kid in your school? Would you want to use it? te | Tt can be fun to be admired and have a lot of

friends—but that alone won't make you happy. A big part of happiness is being your true, authentic self. You are a unique individual, with special talents and a one-of-a-kind personality. Your hobbies, interests, background, or religion may be

commer

The Magic

of Wow © different from others. Sometimes you may even feel like you want to change to fit in better. But it’s more enchanting to follow your own dreams and goals. Focus on doing things that are best for you. And stick with friends who like you for who you really are.

It’s not always easy to be yourself. You might make mistakes or get embarrassed once in a while.

But you'll always be the best at it—you’re the only person who can be you. And that’s truly magical!

Wendell the Wizard is mixing a potion to help people express their true selves. Find the ingredients and write them on the scroll. Start with the orange letter and follow connected lines to spell out a word. You'll return to some letters more than once.

Brilliant Star % JULY/AUGUST 2010

3 oe - ee 4 Expression Elixir Ingredients |)

[Page 3]ABrief ; Timeline | The hife of Baha'u'llah

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

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

1844 Recognizes the Bab as anew Messenger of God

TBP FRIES | 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 Bahai 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

Agia FE) Finally free to live in countryside homes

of Mazra‘ih and then Bahji, outside ‘Akka

Baha'u'llah passes away at Bahjj.

Baha’u’llah’s hife: Mission of Peace Majestic Presence

magine how it would feel to meet a Messenger of God in person. A Persian prince who knew Baha'u'llah said, “I know not how to explain it... all the sorrows of the world to be crowded

were

into my heart they would, I feel, all vanish, when in the presence of Baha'u'llah. It is as if I had entered Paradise itself.” Though He suffered imprisonment and banishment, Baha’u'llah’s kindness, generosity, and wisdom brought joy to people’s hearts everywhere He went. Still, authorities who felt threatened by Baha'u'llah exiled Him from Persia (now Iran) to Baghdad, Iraq, in 1853. Baha’u'llah was a follower of an earlier Messenger of God known as the Bab, Who taught that another Messenger promised by all religions would soon appear. The authorities mistakenly thought the Bab’s teachings went against Islam, and they persecuted thousands of His followers, called Babis. Baha'u'llah had a strong effect on the people of Baghdad. Religious leaders, dignitaries, and ordinary citizens visited Him and asked for His advice. Baha’w'llah frequently went to coffeehouses, and whichever coffeehouse He chose would become crowded with people eager to see Him. **. He showered love on many, |

giving gifts to the disabled, orphans, and

others in need. When He went out, a poor, elderly woman would often wait for Him on the road. Baha’u'llah kindly asked about her health and gave her money. When she wanted to kiss His cheeks, He would bend down so she could do so. Later, when He left Baghdad, He arranged for an allowance to help her for the rest of her life.

In Baha’u'llah’s time, many people went to coffeehouses to talk about religion and philosophy. He visited these coffeehouses often, and crowds gathered to see Him.

Not everyone welcomed Baha'u'llah and the other Babis. Some prejudiced people insulted and threatened them. At times, some Babis got into conflicts with them.

Once, some merchants even threatened to kill Baha’u'llah and the Babis. But Baha’u'llah calmly went to the coffeehouse as usual. He told a companion, “We have been threatened with death. We have no fear, We are ready for them.” He spoke with such authority that those who heard Him were amazed, and the merchants did not dare to hurt Him.

Another time, more than 100 hostile men came to Baha’u'llah’s house. Baha’u’llah warmly invited them in, saying, “They are our guests.” He had sherbet and eo | tea served to them. In Baha’u'llah’s majestic presence, the men’s hearts changed, and they left as friends.

Some people recognized Baha’u'llah’s spiritual power and felt He was the Messenger of God promised by the Bab.

In time, Baha’u'llah would reveal that He was, indeed, the Promised One of all religions. The authorities continued to exile Him farther and farther from Persia, but they were unable to stop His profound effect

on people's hearts and souls.

The statements above trom Bahduullah are not authenticated quotations, but are His reported words from Bahd'u'léh: The King of Glory, by H. M. Balyuz

Cups by Dianka Pyzhova

JULY/AUGUST 2010 * Brilliant Star 3 [Page 4]Expres Your Emetions ave you ever had a bad day at school and taken it out on your family? You're grumpy, and no Mh ay ee one understands why. You may , snap at your siblings or go to your room and slam the door.

While we all like to be happy, it’s natural to feel frustrated,

angry, or sad sometimes. But keeping those feelings inside can lead to more stress, stomachaches,

emotions. In fact, studies show

headaches, and other problems. Expressing your emotions is an important part of staying healthy.

that writing about stressful events can be difficult at first, but in time it can lead to happier feelings and If you're feeling upset, start by talking to a parent, friend, sibling, or an adult you trust. Be specific

even stronger physical health. Exercise is another way to let out intense feelings. Running, about how you feel and why, such as, “I feel angry when I'm teased at school,” or “I feel frustrated when

hiking, or biking can ease anxiety and brighten your mood. Even just getting outside in nature may I don’t understand my homework.” Sometimes, just telling someone what's bothering you can help.

help you feel more peaceful. If you need to cry, let yourself. You may be surprised at how

You can also talk to God and much better you feel. Emotions are one thing we all have in common, so try sharing them with others—

it might be just what you need.

pray for guidance and confidence. Writing and drawing can be peat ways to express your

ee Bz Fruit for Thought

“O my Lord... Thou art He Who changeth through His bidding abasement into glory, and weakness into strength, and powerlessness into might, and fear into calm, and doubt into certainty.” —Baha’u'llah

‘so

why we're crying.

Joy of Journaling

riting and drawing in a W journal’ is like creating a world of your own—no one needs to see it but you. And it’s a helpful

tool for sorting out your feelings. Try these ideas:

o Make a list of what helps you relax, such as listening to music, walking in nature, or praying.

o Write down what's bothering you and list five things you can do to solve the problem. Try one solution today.

to Write down the positive things you're happy about in life.

o Find inspiring images, words, or phrases to glue into your journal.

o Draw a picture

of yourself

successfully

handling a

situation you're

upset about.

iets Canopy.

True or False? Tears are chemically different, depending on

Answer: True. Emotional tears contain more protein than tears from eye irritation. Only humans are known to cry from emotions, but the reason is a mystery. Some theories are that crying reduces stress or signals a need for help.

4 Brilliant Star % JULY/AUGUST 2010

Check out the journaling activity on page 6.

[Page 5]4 Rate How You Communicate

our friend is crying and telling you about the girls who were bullying her during lunch. “They just won't leave me alone,” she says. Then you get a text from a friend who wants to go to the movies. You just have to answer immediately, right? But when your friend sees you texting, she yells, “You're not even listening!” You shout, “I am so!” What did your communication style tell your friend?

1) When I'm with my friends or family, I avoid wearing head- phones, talking on my cell phone, or text messaging.

Often=3 - Sometimes=2 - Rarely =1

5) I pay attention to other people’s facial expressions, tone of

voice, and body language. Often=3 - Sometimes=2 - Rarely =1

6) I show respect for others, even when we disagree.

Communication is about sending and receiving messages. Do you send yours in a way that others understand? Do you get the ones they're sending to you? By listening to others and communicating in positive ways, you'll earn more respect and trust from your friends and family. You can get along peacefully and develop stronger relationships. And that’s something worth talking about!

}— Test your communication skills. Circle your answer for each statement, then add up your points.

9) When someone offers advice in a respectful way, I listen with an open mind and don't get upset.

Often=3 + Sometimes =e » Rarely=1

10) When I’ve done something wrong, I admit it, then apolo-

2) When someone is talking to me, I focus on what they're saying instead of thinking about what to say next.

Often=3 - Sometimes=2 - Rarely =1 gize if I’ve hurt someone. Often=3 - Sometimes =2 - Rarely =1 7) When a friend has a problem, I

listen and ask how I can help.

Often=3 - Sometimes=2 - Rarely =1

8) If someone says something to upset me, and I’m afraid Ill lose

w®:

Often=3 - Sometimes=2 + Rarely =1

3) I ask questions if I don't understand something. Often=3 + Sometimes =2 - Rarely =1

4) I think about how my tone of voice and body language can change the meaning of my words.

Often=3 - Sometimes=2 + Rarely =1

my temper, I think carefully or take a break before I respond. Often=3 - Sometimes=2 - Rarely =1

11) When I'm teasing or joking with a friend, I watch to be sure they feel okay about what I’m saying.

Often=3 - Sometimes =2 - Rarely =1

12) When I talk in front of a class, I speak clearly and make eye contact with my teacher and classmates.

Often=3 - Sometimes =2 - Rarely =1

EK My Total Points:

> J

36-28 points: You're doing a great job of speaking and listening positively! Keep up the awesome work.

27-19 points: You speak and listen effectively most of the time. Choose a tip from the quiz to polish your skills even more.

18-12 points: Practice the tips in the quiz to improve your skills. Then check your progress

with family and friends.

JULY/AUGUST 2010 * Brilliant Star 5 [Page 6]&

jut é the world around you. It’s full of amazing arts,

ave you talked to yourself lately? 0 é of all the people in the world, the most ideas, and experiences. Which ones excite you , important one to get to Know better is the most and make you want to learn more? What yourself. Knowing yourself helps you learn about — new things would you like to discover? your strengths, interests, and goals. As you go, Delve into your interests and dreams, then see you'll figure out how to express yourself and how they can help you be of service to the world. your talents. Here are some questions to get you started on

Part of getting to Know yourself is exploring your fascinating adventure. TA

Where I live:

My best virtues or qualities:

Who or what makes me happy: I like to be helpful by:

4 Favorite hobbies or sports:

Favorite subjects in school:

¢ é a

My faith or beliefs:

Favorite animal or pet:

Favorite foods:

Favorite Combination of colors:

Favorite fictional character and why:

Favorite music or instruments:

When I grow up, I want to be (future career):

An accomplishment I'm proud of:

Places I'd love to visit someday:

Things I'd like to learn to do:

My favorite ways to be creative:

% Things I collect (such as stamps or rocks): ra

San inspiring quote or motto that I try to live by:

r

WW Stamps by Sergey Lazarev ¢ Art elements by Elise Gravel, Lorelyn Medina, Azzzya 6 Brilliant Star % JULY/AUGUST 2010 ‘At for box instructions by C. Aaron Kreader [Page 7]ake a look around your house—do you see a lot of zebras? How about elephants or airplanes? If you have more than a few of anything—from toy figures to trading cards to Cool rocks — you've started a collection. Collecting is a fun way to express yourself and your interests. What you collect reflects what you love or get excited about. It can be anything you find, create, buy, or get as a gift. The items don’t need to be expensive or new. You might collect stamps, special coins, stickers,

You'll Need:

+ shallow box made of wood or sturdy cardboard (ideally at least 8” x 8" or 20 cm x 20 cm)

a photo of yourself
cool items to display

+ colored or patterned paper or fabric

+ scissors + glue Optional:

+ Copies of favorite photos and magazine cut-outs

+ paint and paintbrush

+ smaller boxes or pieces of strong cardboard

+ string and tape

plastic wrap 4.

_What You Do ? | “one

. Think about your interests and what excites you the most. If you already Collect things, choose some small items to put in your self-expression box. If you don’t have a collection, gather small items that represent you.

Experiment with the placement of items—play with shapes, Colors, patterns, and sizes. You can use smaller

beads, or buttons. You can collect things from nature, such as seashells or leaves. Maybe you're crazy about turtles or horses and want to collect things featuring your favorite animal. Or if you love a certain country, you Could collect items from there.

If you don’t have a collection, look around for things that make you smile or feel peaceful or Creative. Then you Can display your special things in a self-expression box that symbolizes your talents, dreams, or virtues. Pras

2. Choose a box that’s sturdy enough to stand on its side. You Can use a box with a hinged lid, and display it propped open. Use paper, fabric, photos, or paint to decorate the outside.

S. You can protect your box by taping on plastic wrap to the front.

3. Before gluing objects to the inside of your box, do a rough design. Choose one object to be the central Focus, such as the photo of yourself. Create your background with paper, fabric, more photos, or paint.

boxes, pieces of cardboard, or wood to create sections or shelves. You Can also hang items from the top with string and tape. Have fun! After you're happy with your box’s design, glue everything securely in place.

B. Share your box with friends and family. Tell stories about the objects in your box and what they mean to you.

Concept and activity development courtesy of Michael Horvich

JULY/AUGUST 2010 »* Brilliant Star [Page 8]CONTROL YOUR VOLCANO.

Y ou're walking through the cafeteria when you _ hurtful words or actions. But just as land tremors

stumble over someone’s sneaker, and your and steam can signal a volcanic eruption, angry out- lunch hits the floor. The bully who tripped you _ bursts also have warning signs. What do you usually laughs, then others point and join in. You clench _ think, feel, or do when you're about to blow up? Do your fists and feel like you’re about to explode! you grind your teeth, feel your heart beat faster, or Intense anger is like a volcano. Ina volcano, have angry thoughts? When you notice those danger pressure builds until molten rock, gases, and ash __ signals, take a time out. Go for a walk, say prayers, shoot out from below the earth’s surface. In a similar _ or do other things to cool off. After you're calm, you way, when you feel frustrated, you may erupt with can express your feelings without erupting.

“CREATE A VOLCANO ——

You'll Need: 22" x 22" (56 cm x 56 cm) poster board * 20 oz. (591 mL) plastic bottle * pencil « scissors + ruler * stapler packing tape * brown and red acrylic paint + paintbrush « large cookie sheet * aluminum foil + 2 tbsp. (30 mL) baking soda red food coloring * 2 tbsp. (30 mL) vinegar in small cup + 1/2 tsp. (2.5 mL) liquid dish soap + hot tap water

Caution: Get an adult's permission 4, Fold two corners up so they overlap 7. Cover cookie sheet with foil.

or help, and keep the ingredients away from anyone's eyes.

. Fold poster board in half. Open, and fold in half again in other direction, to make a cross in center.

. At center of cross, trace around bottle’s spout. Cut out with scissors.

. Cut along each crease, stopping 1/2" (1.3 cm) from opening.

about 6" (15 cm) and staple together.

Do this for all flaps to create cone shape. Tape seams flat. ae

. Place spout of bottle into hole of volcano. Trim base of cone so edges a are even with bottle.

. Paint volcano brown. Add streaks of red for lava. Let dry.

Remove bottle from volcano and add hot tap water so it’s half full.

. Add dish soap,

baking soda, j and 5-10 drops of food color.

9. Put bottle on

cookie sheet and place volcano on top so spout pokes out of top. Pour vinegar into bottle and

watch it erupt!

HOW DOES & P

u WORK!

In this volcano model, vinegar reacts with baking soda, and carbon dioxide gas is produced. Pressure builds in the bottle, then the gas bubbles rise out of the volcano.

8

Brilliant Star %* JULY/AUGUST 2010 [Page 9]“Thou hast endowed each and all with talents and faculties..." -‘Abdu'l-Bahé \

ou've got talent! You don't have to be perfect Join a school club or volunteer at a favorite place, \

to let your skills shine. Just as an athlete such as the library or a museum. Whatever captures

learns to dribble before becoming a professional your attention, from astronomy to zoos, try to find basketball player, you can take small steps to out more about it. Discuss your interests with your sharpen your talents. parents, teachers, and friends.

Whether you like to dance, draw, or play music, If you're interested in something that other kids practicing and learning can be fun and rewarding. don't think is cool, don’t worry—pursue what If you're not sure about your skills, try new activities. brings you joy, and that joy will spread to others.

JULY/AUGUST 2010 % Brilliant Star 9 [Page 10]10 Brilliant Star % JULY/AUGUST 2010 [Page 11]aw Xz “vt

EXPioRE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AnD ITs CREATURES

“All the members of this endless universe - - “hg are linked one to another.” —Baha’i Writings ee

= <> es 50) c

WOW, REALLY? Plant trees — a lot of them. It’s estimated Along with providing that human lungs life-giving oxygen, contain almost trees remove about 1,500 miles OUR CONNECTIONS 784,000 tons of air 2414km) pollution in U.S. (2, m) What do you do about 20 cities alone, each year. of airways!

Yk times a minute that’s essential for survival? Breathe. Each

time you inhale, oxygen flows @j-Xoy yous i\ (eke) SHV ial through your lungs and into your bloodstream. It has to reach every cell in Gretchen C. Daily, a biologist and university

your body to give you the energy you need. professor, Taises GRELENEES about how to balance Oxygen ties us to all living things— conservation and biodiversity with economic virtually every animal needs it, and it’s activities. She won the international 2008

. . Sophie Prize* for her innovative work. She provided by plants and trees. Our amazing Savon Thelmasclextinctionlof plantsiand Earth is the only known planet with just the animals that we are experiencing today is

right amount of oxygen for all of us to thrive. absolutely unprecedented in human history.”

WHERE IN THE WORLD? ;

c- _

This Central and South American bird’s huge bill looks heavy, but it’s actually light and mostly hollow. It can be one-third of the bird’s total length.

Fill in the blanks to find its name:

KE L-BI LE TOUC

Trees by serg cano by Imagix, bird by Eduardo Rivero

orkon dtl enironnetl poles. JULY/AUGUST 2010 * Brilliant Star 11 [Page 12]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?

we!

Cameron S. *

Age:7 * Favorite Baha’ activities: \live in: Virginia, US. 4 Runi Book 4 (hinidicd | want to be: F. ite animal t: Aspace physician to Cnt € animal or pet: learn how the human fuinea pig » a body works in space Place I'd love to visit:

Best quality or virtue: ace ae the Petttanl(foehypetttant) most delicious chicken Hobbies or sports: and fried rice ever, and Brown belt tae kwon they cook in front of you.

Gln catelEka, ERR | like to help people by:

Taking food to people’s houses and saying prayers with them

What do you like about your- self that makes you unique? Iam learning Russian... also know Farsi and learn French at school.

What's one big message you want to share with the world? Give the Baha'is in Iran a chance to breathe. Don’t put them in jail.

Maya W. Age: 13 | live in: Ontario, Canada

| want to be:

Lawyer, actress, or journalist, because I love acting, writing, solving problems, and helping people. Hobbies or sports: Acting, writing, piano, photography

Favorite Baha’ activities: Going to Green

Acre Baha’i School

[in Maine, U.S.],

junior youth groups Favorite animal or pet: My grandmother's two kittens, Minou and Annoushka ae

What do you like about your- self that makes you unique? Iam very creative, and Tuse my creativity to

Nia B.

Age: 7 I live in: Belize

| want to be:

Awaitress and doctor Hobbies or sports: Riding my bike

and gardening

Favorite animal or pet: My dog Lucky, who we saved from the street

-u

make things [fun] that aren't fun...

When yourfeelings are hurt or you're upset, what do you do? Idon’t stay upset for a long time, so I don’t normally do much when I’m mad or upset.

What's one big message you want to share with the world? Iwould share Baha’u'llah’s message to the world, because that is the answer to all of our

current problems. >

What do you like about your- self that makes you unique? Ilike that lam a Baha'i and am homeschooled. Ilove to sing and dance. Iam also really good at organizing things like parties and games... What's your favorite way to use your creativity?

Ilike to use paper and trash to make new cool things... because it’s SK fun and I'm recycling. When your feelings are hurt or you're upset, what do you do? Itry to let it go, but some- times it is hard... [and] I use an angry voice, but I am working on telling people how I feel instead.

What's one big message you wantto share with the world? Ilove God, Iam Baha'i, I love all religions, [and]

thank you for listening...

Brilliant Star % JULY/AUGUST 2010

12

“Ruhi books area seres of books about the Bahé teachings that people study in groups. [Page 13]Age: 12

| live in: British Columbia, Canada

| want to be: Aveterinarian

Best quality or virtue: Kindness

Hobbies or sports: I like to horseback ride

| like to help people by: Doing a chore for them

What do you like about your- self that makes you unique? Ilike...the wayI

have with animals and young children. Also

I love to hike and spend alot of time exploring nature. But I think what makes me the most unique is my taste in music. At a time when all of my friends are listening to Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber,

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

x

Best quality or virtue:

Helpfulness

Favorite animal or pet: Snake

Place I'd love to visit: x Italy

| want to be: A doctor

Hobbies or sports: Soccer, football

What do you like about your- self that makes you unique? Ilike to solve difficult math problems. I also like to invent new things, like robots tS and computer things.

What's your favorite way to use your creativity?

x

my favorite music

comes from the Beatles.

What's your favorite way to use your creativity? Making homemade cards as gifts, with fancy stickers and made-up verses

What's one big message you want to share with the world? Don’t worry about [what] others think, just be you. If you like yourself, others will as well. And if they don’t, it won’t matter.

Tlike to write short presen- tations on my computer.

When your feelings are hurt or you're upset, what do you do? Italk to my Mom and Dad, and I pray.

What's one big message you want to share with the world? I would like the world to be friendly and happy. Be friendly to each other.

“God has crowned you with honor and

Age: 10

I live in: California, U.S.

| want to be: A painter or a flutist

Best quality or virtue: Creativity -u Hobbies or sports:

Art, singing in a choir, dance, and swimming Favorite Baha’i activities:

Performing skits which demonstrate virtues...

Favorite animal or pet: Black-footed ferret. (They are endangered.)

%

| like to help people by: Cheering them up if they are sad

Place I'd love to visit: Canada

What do you like about your- self that makes you unique? Iam thoughtful and I try to stop backbiting.

Here’s how:

1, If you're age 7-14, write us at brilliant@usbnc.org

What's your favorite way

to use your creativity? luse creativity in my artwork by thinking out of the box to show my personality.

When your feelings are hurt or you're upset, what do you do? I stop, and think, then pray. Then I talk to someone and tell them what’s bothering me.

What's one big message you want to share with the world? End war and be kind to each other.

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).

JULY/AUGUST 2010 »* Brilliant Star

13 [Page 14]CSE le mn MH XS LIEHT! NING AND LUNA = =, OE EE ater 10 FOE CONTEOL (7

Ce —

(Rest |

4 BAXTER AND BRIDGET

ABOUT THE TT WAS HAVEN’T YOU COLIN! YOU JUSTICE JAM FESS fl IMPORTANT—ANZ HEAR?? TV MISSED OUR YOU’RE JUST BROADCASTS ARE i WATCHING TV? | DOWN. THIS 1S ADV? FROM, DR. DEVIOUS.

NO/ BND WHATS WITH AWESOME Hisve }] |LTHE ARGYLE VESTS?

YOU PLAYED HIS THEY'RE COOL.

VIVEO GAMES? EVERVBODV’S SOT THEM.

SERVICES ARE DOWN. BUT WE SUSPECT 7 SABOTAGE.

V TO FIT IN?

WHAT IS WRONG | WITH YOU Guys?!

FY CAVE THE LATEST-WHERE THE , A INTERNET WORKS, THERE’S BEEN fy TLPOCSN'T MAKE SENSE, ZAPPO. LOOK INTO THE r] A SLOWDOWN IN NEW WEBSITES, aoe iNa MEDIA THAT’S LEFT— MAYBE INUSIC, PODCASTS, AND WOWIES. | |NEZIA THATS LEFT NYE ALSO, THIS MIGHT SEEM TRIVIAL—BUT HUSE NUMBERS OF PEOPLE ARE —WELL— PRESSING ALIKE.

HIGHLY SENSITIVE DATAIS BEING — | [wrt SERVICE OUT,

MASSIVE PANIC.

14 Brilliant Star % JULY/AUGUST 2010 [Page 15]YOU COULP SAY THE SAME ABOUT UPLIFTERS—OUR UNIFORMS ARE A LOT ALIKE.

WE NOTICED. AND SO WHAT IF YOU MADE THE

INTERNET GO DOWN?

ACTUALLY, LUNA, WE

HAVE SOME CHANGES

PLANNED—BUT MORE ABOUT THAT LATER.

LSURE COULD USE A SUIT THAT CAN HANDLE AJOLT.*

‘HON DOES THAT HELP US GET RIV OF THE UPLIFTERS?

1’S NOT JUST THE INTERNET. TM TAKING OVER ALL GLOBAL MEDIA!

IMM . . .S0 YOU ICAN ACCESS BANK ACCOUNTS. HOW MUCH NONEY HAVE YOU STOLEN SO FAR?

PLENTY. BUT THATS NOT THE POINT!

MEANWHILE, AT VR. DEVIOUS’S LAIR . . - fo

A.

WE SAW YOU ON, ‘TV. TELL ME, ARE YOU ACELEBRITY OR AN ERASER ?

WITH BEING BOTH? ANYWAY, MY FLAWLESS PLAN IS IN FULL

MOTION.

RIPICULOUS. OUR GOAL J \S TO RULE THE WORLD, NOT PLAY WITH IZEAS.

WE DON’T HAVE TO ROB A] BANKS OR FIGHT WARS. T’LL CONTROL PEOPLE, AND NO ONE WILL OPPOSE ME. =

7 ; WHY DON’T YOU TELL | [LOOK—T'mn PONG. ’ US HOW TO ACCESS | | THIS MY WAY. ALL NEVER THREMTENED RE. THE MONEY, AND MY LIFE, I'VE } | Bur WATCH OUT-You DON’T WANT US TAL DESTROY THEM WE'LL Just... | | BEEN BULLIED. NO AS ENEINIES. THE ERASERS ARE INORE ANP Tie UPLIFTERS! MOKE! CONTROL POWEREUL THAN YOU THINK, PIXON. - \S FINALLY IN IY : GRASP. SO STAY

QUT OF MY WAY!

TURN THE PAGE FOR AN EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE UPLIFTERS

“See Episode #34, September/October 2009

JULY/AUGUST 2010

Brilliant Star 15

[Page 16]A Design Contest: New Superhero Suits For the uplifters

% f AS THE ERASERS LAUNCH NEW SCHEMES FOR | WELCOME TO THE UPLIFTERS” JARTERS! ” T/M PULSAR, CEE TERS HEAPOUA OUR g ERASING VIRTUES FROM THE WORLD, BEING GLOBAL ALLIANCE OF SUPERHEROES. =a. i | WE’RE DESIGNING NEW SUITS, AND WE KNOW YOUR IVEAS CAN INSPIRE US! TF fain YOU WERE AN UPLIFTER, HOW WOULD YOU [o> DESIEN THE PERFECT SUIT 10 HELP you & SERVE THE WORLD, WHILE PROTECTING -—<—<\ YOURSELF ANZ’ YOUR ENTITY? WE CAN’T WAIT 10 SEE —_— YOUR CREATIVE IVEAS!

aS np — a HERE’S WHAT ¥ou DO » A ; THE PRIZES — 1. Think about the Uplifters’ qualities and what kind of suits) FIRST PLACE: A Lightning and Luna t-shirt, a rare * would help them most on their missions. Do they need | collection of all the Lightning and Luna episodes to blend in or stand out? Should each uniform reflect the compiled in a book, and Brilliant Star’s Super Cosmic

Creativity Kit. Your design will also appear in at least one Lightning and Luna episode! (Even if your exact design isn’t used for the new Uplifters’ suits.)

individual's character or powers? Will symbols or colors b hint at their identity as an Uplifter? Are there special features for protection? On the next page, design your suits on Lightning and Luna. You can use any tools, from pens to markers, or you can even make a collage from

SECOND PLACE: A rare collection of all the Lightning

different materials. ' and Luna episodes compiled in a book and Brilliant Star's Super Cosmic Creativity Kit. Your design will | 2. In 150 words or less, tell us about your suit designs— | also appear in one Lightning and Luna episode! why you chose them, how they can help the Uplifters in their service, and any special features they include. THIRD PLACE: Brilliant Star’s Super Cosmic : a

Creativity Kit. Your design may also appear in one Lightning and Luna episode!

3. ENTRIES ARE DUE BY SEPTEMBER 30, 2010. Send us your original drawing from page 17 or a high-resolution scan (no photocopies). Include your written description, name, age, address, telephone number, and e-mail address. Submissions can be sent by e-mail to

b brilliant@usbnc.org or by mail to:

A FEW RULES

1. Entries must be original work done by kids ages 7-14. |

Brilliant Star

A Design Contest: New Superhero Suits for the Uplifters 1233 Central Street \ Evanston, IL 60201 U.S.

2. If you're in the running for a prize, we'll send you 1) a permission form for your parent or guardian to sign, and 2) a request for a close-up photo of your smiling face.

3. Winning entries may appear in Brilliant Star or on our website. Your written submissions may be edited for length.

1. If you have questions, contact Brilliant Star's Contest Coordinator at 847.853.2354 or at brilliant@usbnc.org.

1

)| UPLIFTERS’ HO. HERE ARE SOME | RULES TO REMEMBER FOR YOUR

SUPERHERO SUIT VESIENS. _ ane

French: Bonjour = Hello

16 Brilliant Star % JULY/AUGUST 2010 [Page 17]START THINKING ABOUT YOUR DESIENS BY LISTING LIGHTNING’S AN? LUNA’S SUPERPOWERS AND VIRTUES ON THEIR COMPUTER SCREENS. _/{)

JN

= LIGHTNING

a’ |

A

A (@o

JULY/AUGUST 2010 »% Brilliant Star 17 [Page 18]Q. What's your favorite childhood memory?

My summers in Iran and my autumns in England

. .. Lwas in boarding school in England, so for

me, summers in Iran meant I got to come home,

be with family, meet Baha'is, go to [Baha’i] summer school .. . Of course, the beginning of the school year is always an exciting time of year, and when

I went back to England . . . it was always the time to audition for the new school play. I was always excited to see what the new play was.

for you as a kid?

MER MANSURI

rowing up in Iran, Mehr Mansuri caught a bug. “The whole bug

of acting started out with Baha'i school kids when [we] were

taught to memorize, and I didn’t really think of it as performing,” says Mehr. “It’s something you did as a Baha'i.” Then, when she was eight years old and moved to England for boarding school, she saw professional plays and knew that her acting bug was with her to stay. Mehr studied drama at the University of California, Irvine. She has appeared in over 40 roles in movies, television, and theater, and she won the Los Angeles Drama Critic’s Choice Award.

Mehr also loves kids and wanted to be of service, so she co-founded the Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) in Los Angeles in 1989. Ten years later, Mehr started another CTC in New York City, where she now writes, directs, and produces CTC plays and musicals, and prepares kids of all ages to perform. The CTCs have been so successful that Mehr helped set up more than seven others in the U.S.

Left: Mehr, 11, grew up in Iran and England. Right: Mehr, 9, in her Q. What was the most challenging experience school uniform, rode the train to her school in Worcester, England.

In Iran, it wasn’t popular to be a Baha’i. On the one was considered to have extreme political views ... hand, Baha’is were considered the most trustworthy But for me, the most challenging thing .. . was

of Iranians in business. On the other, many people learning a second language, assimilating a new considered Baha'is untouchable . . . It [also] wasn’t culture, and trying to be from Iran but give it a a popular time to be from Iran . . . The government positive spin as a kid growing up.

Q. How did living in different cultures influence you?

The biggest influence [is] on my ability to meet and Christian school where we had to go to a different reach and immediately connect with people of dif- church every Sunday . . . To be able to find a way ferent cultures and socio-economic backgrounds to know who you are and be what you want to be, and ... What was really fascinating was to go to a very yet embrace other people’s faiths and respect [them] . . .

18 Brilliant Star % JULY/AUGUST 2010 [Page 19]Q. How does working with the CTC impact kids’ characters?

[Theater] can be a very competitive experience of...

being the star and getting a costume and getting ahead. It can be counter to building character. But when you take the theater experience and you frame it as a community development model . . . then it’s all for one and one for all—an ensemble experience, not a movie star experience. And we should reflect on the words we're saying, and consider them in terms of their . . . application to our lives . . . [At CTC] we have a weekly devotional gathering for children. We call it an honor circle, where we honor each other... You can either pray to God or you can. . . not pray and just honor each other's character and spiritual qualities.

Q. What's your advice for kids who want to be professional singers or actors? They should not view film and TV as the ultimate measure of success or expression of that desire to be in the world of art and theater, because there’s a Jot of hurry up and wait to get the job . . . Start writing your own plays and creating your own material, and get your friends together and be the theater you want to be, instead of waiting for someone to give you that opportunity.

Q. In this issue we're talking about expressing yourself. What tips do you have for kids who might have a hard time expressing emotions or thoughts?

I think that we have to .. . be accepting of expression in

all its forms, that silence and introspection is also a

way of expressing yourself. . . So I think we first take

away any judgment of ourselves . . . One of the best ways to really overcome shyness or fear is to be of service. It’s actually the best way to forget yourself.

Top: The CTC has appeared on Reading Rainbow and Sesame Street and in UNICEF concerts with Nelson Mandela and other celebrities. PHOTO BY MIKE RELPH Bottom: In a CTC play in Los Angeles, this prince wants to be the next king, but others tell him he’s too rude. PHOTO BY LARA REGAN

Q. What is your goal for the Children’s Theatre Company? A continuation to evolve... and to figure out how to serve as many communities as possible . . . | think that many schools are recognizing that moral education is very much the missing link in the whole academic world . . . [We want to] give educators more options . plays that are about Earth, environment, race

unity, the advancement of women, literacy, poverty. So that has become the future that we can see, developing musicals that are easy to do... for different ages and different sizes of groups...

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

Tt’s that they should really, really look to shine them- selves up so that they can become brilliant stars on the stage and know that the stage is set for them. And the [Baha’i] Faith is so ready for these...

shiny stars to come. To see themselves as brilliant stars. That would be my wish for them. And then

embrace the world of the arts and the theater. . .

in terms of reaching the world through the arts.

To learn more about the CTC, visit www.childrenstheatrecompany.org

JULY/AUGUST 2010 »* Brilliant Star

19 [Page 20]MUSIC CAFE

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

IF SOMEONE MADE A STATUE OF ME, I WOULD WANT IT TO BE BECAUSE I HELPED BRING PEACE 10 PEOPLE THROUGH MUSIC. HOW ABOUT YOU? WHAT 70 YOU WANT TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE WORLV?

STATUE OF ME

Words by Lisa Mathews & Mikel Gehl + Music By Milkshake 6 @ aN

Nn — = Re i Fst ————a i t + - oe z oe 7

1 If there was a sta-tue of me, 1 won-der what the rea-son would be. Did I dis- co-ver a far a - way

world where mo-ney real-ly grew on trees? 2 Did they makea sta-tue of me for in- 3 When theymakea sta-tue of me, I 4 If there was a sta-tue of me, I u nN N y S= r + r ——— f zt Nt e i = == —_ ft 2S +—+ vent-ingsome-thing ev’ - ry - one needs? A fun-ky food-mak - ing ma- chine? Or hope it’s ‘cause I helpedpeo - ple see the ma-gic of the star-ry skies or won-der what the rea-son would be? May-be just for mak-ing you smile with my ig Chorus 7 J Se tities $ ———? <== oe =< oe ee 4 eo 4 ways tocleanthe air we breathe? All | i- ma-gine and all 1 do, i mys-t’ries of thedeepblue sea. hap - py lit-tle mel-o - dies. After third chorus, to bridge 20 fr2.3 oo — — : Pp py oe ——— fee -B 4? ty ————— ——— — eo —_— I'm start-in’ to think it mightbe true._ No-one else is just like me! No-one else is just like me. nN : : e_fine! G rt fe tt Poe [2 2 * Fh ————— | ) y (That’s right) No-one else is just like me. No-one else is just like. me! (You?) Yeah! Bridge — > a i= —

f == f i —— 1 ee ee ev 7 r T

Pres - i - dents and po - ets, wri-ters and mo-vie _ stars,

_— aos DS. al Fine

— 7 $f T baie ] = —— SS SS Se | ] eo t

Visit them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/milkshakeband [Page 21]Nuvs Nodk |

unny poems can make you grin. Just find a pencil and begin! Writing poetry is like playing a game—with words. And it doesn’t have to be hard. All you need is a pencil, paper, and your imagination.

You can start by keeping a notebook handy to jot down ideas, rhymes, and interesting words you notice. Check out the dictionary or thesaurus for inspiration, too. To add humor, ask yourself, “What’s the funniest thing about my topic?” Think about unusual settings, such as playing soccer on the moon

7S —e Write Your Own Funny Poem

|

WRITE YOUR OWN FUNNY POEM ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE HOBBIES. YOU CAN COPY THIS PAGE TO MAKE MORE POEMS.

Writing in Rhyme

or under the sea. You can also exaggerate something about your subject, or give it a twist. How about a piano with a thousand keys? A bike that flies? Try not to be critical of your writing. Put your poem aside for a while, then see if you want to make changes. When you're happy with it, try it out on your friends and family.

HOW 70 YOU LIKE MY POEM?,

REN)

CU

SSS

—————

area

Yo

by

r

Your Name

Line 1- names your hobbies

mes with line 1

> Line 2 - relates to your hobbies and rhyt

Line 3- relates to your hobbies

3 hobbies and rhymes with li

ime Line 4- relates to your

EE

——

ies. Don't forget the humor!

ee

inviting,

Ow can I choose Just one to do?

Wait! ve ve ait! Tha i four hands, so I don’t ha e ti 0.

READ YOUR POEM OUT LOUD AND PLAY WITH IT UNTIL YOU LIKE HOW IT SOUNDS. THEN I’7 LOVE TO SEE YOUR WORK OF ART! SEND IT TO ME AT BRILLIANT@USBNC.ORG..

—

3

Ht

JULY/AUGUST 2010 » Brilliant Star

21 [Page 22]SHINING LAMP

A Baha‘i who served humanity with radiance

WILLIAM SUTHERLAND MAXWELL: Architect of Originality

hen you see an amazing building, you might wonder who

designed it. William Sutherland Maxwell loved all kinds of art, and he showed interest in and talent for architecture from his teens.

William, also known as Sutherland, was born in Montreal, Quebec, in 1874. After high school, he learned architecture at his brother Edward’s firm in Montreal. Then he trained at a firm in Boston, U.S. During that time, he “first seriously realized the greatness and nobility of architecture.” In 1899, he traveled to Paris and polished his skills.

Tn Paris, Sutherland fell in love with a Baha'i named May Bolles. She appreciated his artistic nature, and once told him, “You have the charm of originality.” They married in London in 1902, then moved to Montreal. Their home became a center of Baha’i activity.

Success and Inspiration Sutherland could paint, draw, and carve anything. He joined Edward as a partner, and they built the largest architecture firm in Canada. They designed well-known buildings, such as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

“A nation is judged,” Sutherland wrote, “not only by the tons of steel rails produced, but by the level of cultivation which the buildings and art of the country express.”

William Sutherland Maxwell was passionate about the arts and collecting books. He had about 3,500 volumes in his own library.

Sutherland had traveled and studied French and Italian archi- tecture in Europe. He wrote, “We should make a point to every few years seek inspiration among the monuments of a past which held to standards of beauty and truth more devotedly than we do nowadays.”

In 1909, Sutherland and May traveled to ‘Akka, in what is now Israel, to meet ‘Abdu’l-Baha, who led the Baha’i Faith at that time. Sutherland was deeply inspired by ‘Abdu’l-Baha. Later, when ‘Abdu'l- Baha visited North America in 1912, he stayed in the Maxwell home, which Sutherland had designed. The home is now a sacred Baha’i place.

Sutherland's 1944 drawing of his design for the Shrine of the Bab in Haifa, Israel.

Saintly Life In 1937, Sutherland and May’s only child, Mary, married ‘Abdu’l- Baha’s grandson, Shoghi Effendi, who led the Baha’i Faith after ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s passing. When May died in 1940, Shoghi Effendi invited Sutherland to live in Haifa, Israel, where he was planning and building the Baha’i World Center.

Shoghi Effendi asked Sutherland to design the exterior of the Shrine of the Bab, one of the holiest Baha’i shrines. Sutherland designed a majestic building. He also helped with other projects.

In time, Sutherland’s health failed, and he returned to Canada in 1951. He was named a Hand of the Cause of God." He died in 1952, and the Shrine of the Bab was completed the next year. Shoghi Effendi praised his “saintly life” and named a door of the Shrine of the Bab after him.

22

Brilliant Star % JULY/AUGUST 2010

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

significant ways, including encouraging others in teaching and protecting the Faith

Camp Creativity

“The source of crafts, sciences and arts is the power of reflection. Make ye every effort that out

hen you're doing something you love,

have you ever noticed how time can zip by? When you're focused on your

activity, do you feel happy and energized?

Pay attention to things that make you feel that

way—whether you're making music, playing a sport,

or creating art. You're expressing yourself in a way

that’s important to you. Maybe you write imaginative

@ 4

LTAKE MY CAMERA EVERYWHERE, AND L LOVE To SHOOT PHOTOS OF PEOPLE AN NATURE. I WANT TO BE A

PHOTOGRAPHER.

WHEN T PLAY My V/OLIN, I FEEL PEACEFUL AND CALM. WHILE T PRACTICE, TIMSSINE PLAYING IN AN ORCHESTRA.

pearls of wisdom and utterance...”

—Baha'u'llah

stories and poems. Or your love of architecture inspires you to design amazing things with Lego blocks. As you spend time on your interests over

the years, you'll develop your skills and take on new challenges. Someday, a favorite hobby could

turn into a brilliant career.

When you choose work that excites you, you're

likely to succeed at it and be of service to the world.

green.

LENUOY DRAWING, PAINTING, ANZ

INXING COLORS. T LOVE GETTING

ANEW, BLANK CANVAS. I WANT TO BE APAINTER AN? ILLUSTRATOR.

LLOVE TO USE MY SEWING MACHINE 10 CREATE CLOTHES FOR MYSELF AN? MY FRIENDS. I WANT TO BE AFASHION DESIGNER.

FROM HIP-HOP TO SALSA, DANCING INKKES ME HAPPY. AND WHEN T PUT ON MY BALLET SLIPPERS, L ALMOST FEEL LIKE I CAN FLY.

TM ALWAYS GETTING NEW IDEAS FOR STORIES, WHICH TWRITE IN A JOURNAL. 1 DREAM OF PUBLISHING MY BOOKS SOMEDAY.

LUKE TO EXPERIMENT WITH RECIPES FOR FOOD AND DESSERTS, ESPECIALLY CAKE. LWANT 10 BE ACHEF AND * HAVE MY OWN RESTAURANT.

=

Y

‘SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

JULY/AUGUST 2010 » Brilliant Star [Page 24]JULY 2010 ¢ 167 Baha’i Era

n 1844, a new religion called the Babi Faith spread across Persia (now Iran). It was | founded by the Bab (“the Gate” in Arabic), a Messenger of God. The Bab inspired people with His writings and noble qualities. One person said, “The melody of His chanting ... of His voice.” The Bab taught that another Messenger would soon appear and bring an era of peace. Leaders who wanted to stop the Bab executed Him on July 9, 1850. Baha'u'llah, a leader among the Babis, later announced that He was the new, promised Messenger.

Sunday Monday TueSday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Every 19 days, 1 2 3

Baha'i Feast 4 Tour de France is held on or Bitte My Goal for the Month: Canada Day Begins (July 3-25) near the first July was named after The hard-working Famous 2,237-mile

beaver is a symbol ! en (3,600 km) bicycle of Canada. race through France

day ofthe the Roman leader Baha'i month. Julius Caesar.

Independence \ MARTYRDOM

Day (U.S.) Ps The Statue of OF THE BAB Liberty, a gift from

France, was shipped National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Week

in 350 pieces! (Australia, July 4-11) Honors indigenous people of Australia

World Population Sy "2 Bastille Day

Day - MONTH OF (France)

Our planet is home —— =< KALIMAT Acelebration of =

to 6.8 billion people. 7 liberty and equality. la =P ES

| (WORDS) Vive la liberté!

‘4, !fyou could travel to any time period, when would you choose and why?

22 Epes MEANS . . . ak

Gogmo’s Word Challenge

18

Did you know? American Sign

Neil Armstrong was

Language for the first man to walk a) Tardy for art class “hello” is similar on the moon on this b) Having stiff joints and muscles toa salute.* day in 1969. ¢) Able to speak clearly and effectively

25

Parents’ Day Ask your parents 4% totell you stories Wf about your family’s history.

24. Brilliant Star % JULY/AUGUST 2010 14-French: Vive la liberté = Long live liberty 9-22 ‘YIMSNY

“18—Check out more American Sign Language at hitp//aslbrowser.commtechlab.msu.edu/browser.htm [Page 25]AUGUST 2010 ¢ 167 Bahai Era

lave you ever had an overpowering feeling that you just had to do something

creative—like write a story, draw a picture, or compose a song? That burst

of excitement feels wonderful. But sometimes inspiration doesn’t just happen—you need to look for it. If you want to find creative ideas, try writing (2 or drawing anything that comes to mind, without worrying if it’s “good enough.” Visit a library or museum and check out other artists’ work. Walk in nature and let your mind wander. When you're open to fresh ideas, you can find them almost anywhere.

Sunday Monday TueSday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

in 2

ros

BAHA'I SEES National Night

MONTH OF Baha'i Feast is Out (US. ss Cogmo’s Word Challenge

held on or near Canada) f dinosaur

KAMAL the first day of Neighborhoods tgoing, a

(PERFECTION) the Baha’i month. unite to stop crime.

9

International Day of the World’s Indigenous: People (UN) Ramadan Begins Which native cultures /7R \ (Islam)

live in your part of 4 Atime of fasting,

the world? prayer, and reflection

13 14

My Goal for the Month:

= 1 5 =y/ 21 — y é y / Ri Children’s Book WA “6 & BAHA'I Week (Aug. 21-27, MONTH OF Australia)

Did you know? i dre pe < . J ASMA’ Read your favorite

Whales sing to story to a younger communicate with each other over thousands of miles. (NAMES) friend or sibling

25 26 28

La Tomatina (Spain) Women's Equality . y Day (U.S.) Martin Luther Up to 40,000 people an de . 7 Women fought for King Jr. gave his join a huge tomato 70 years hef 4 d over 70 years before | Have a Dream’ fight in the town . + on this

aoe getting the right to of Bufal vote in 1920. day in 1963.

WHAT KIND OF PHONE: DOES A MERMAID USE?

True or False? Singing releases “feel-good” chemicals called endorphins.

ani] 62 9S ‘SUaMSNY

JULY/AUGUST 2010 * Brilliant Star 25 [Page 26]= Ge

LiGtr OF KINDNESS

ou're such a great friend!” Like warm rays WY vrsnstinc kind words can brighten your day. But just as a rainstorm can ruin a party, hurtful comments can make you feel rotten. When you use kind words instead of harsh ones, people may be more likely to listen. Even if you disagree with someone, try speaking calmly and respectfully.

For example, you could say, “I don’t like it when you

tease me, even though you say you're just kidding.” Communication is more than words. Your actions, tone

of voice, gestures, and facial expressions say a lot about how

you feel. When you're talking to someone, offering your full

attention gives your conversation more meaning. How

do your words and actions light up your neighborhood?

At these block parties, are people being Kind and respectful? List at least eight differences in the scenes below.

NEGATIVE NEIGHBORS

26 Brilliant Star % JULY/AUGUST 2010

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 [Page 27]in

ike a wildfire, gossip, rumors, and backbiting can |) spread rapidly and cause trouble for everyone in their path. Talking negatively about people

behind their backs can be a form of bullying. It hurts

feelings, damages friendships, and can harm people who have done nothing wrong. It’s like starting a fire. You don’t know how far it will spread, and it can be a cycle that’s hard to stop. If someone gossips with ‘* you, they could gossip about you, too. E~ How do you know what is and isn’t gossip or backbiting?

—— — SR Think about how you'd feel if the

person found out you}

said it. If you'd be sorry or embarrassed, don't say it. y You can help stop the spread of negative talk.

Start by telling your friends that you don't like backbiting and you want to talk about positive things. If someone starts to backbite, try changing the subject, or say something kind about the person hi they're criticizing. Don’t repeat negative talk that —! you hear. Put out the fire of gossip, and breathe fresh, clean air into your friendships.

> Check out the kids helow, and uascrample their orange words to help them stop the gossip.

GR

Son gq, 4

QUT. 70 YOU WANT TO GO

THAT’S JUST A RUMOR. LETSOKTL) __ ABOUT SOMETHING

FROGS ARE GOOD LUCK IN JAPAN? |

‘aS JAFAR’S RELIGION IS. [8 WEIRD-THEY DON’T GO TO ACHURCH LIKE US. | as 77 5

ILIKE TO KEEP AN CNEOP) _ — — _ MND. ACTUALLY, | WANT TO €0 TO ONE OF THEIR

THAT’S SAD, BUT TLL LET HIM TELL ME ABOUT IT IF HE

(VEECSI)D

/7 RATHER (SNELIT)

j * KIRA DIDN'T COME TO THE SUMMER CAMP BECAUSE HER FAMILY VOESN’T HAVE ENOUGH MONEY. Tze

CoS LU we, 1 TATs TRUE, 1's,

JAKE WAS

TOTALLY

CHEATING DURING OUR

OOH, GUESS CME.

WHAT MIKE SAID ABOUT ERIN?

_| ZON’T WANT TO HEAR GOSSIP ABOUT HIM.

WE’RE ALLOWED TO LIGHT FIREWORKS WHENEVER WE WANT.

REALLY? WE SHOULD

——

JULY/AUGUST 2010 »* Brilliant Star

27 [Page 28]ER

HOW IS THIS FOR SELF-EXPRESSION?

OSMO'S CORN

Look for clues throughout the magazine.

ACR

3. Hayley likes to use her creativity by

1. Virtually every animal needs this, and it's provided by

out of the box. (p. 13) z plants and trees. (p. 11) 4. These creatures sing to communicate with each other 3 2. Cameron's best virtue is that he's really -(p. 12) over thousands of miles. (p. 25) Se 5. When you choose work that you, you're

9. Sutherland was a gifted -(p. 22) likely to succeed. (p. 23) 10. Your actions, tone of voice, and facial expressions say 6. If someone starts to backbite, try the subject. (p. 27) a lot about how you__. (p. 26) 7. Mehr says one of the best ways to really overcome

14, Pursue what brings you joy, and that joy will shyness or fear is to be of (p. 19)

to others. (p. 9) 8. Communication is about sending and receiving

15. A fun way to express yourself and your interests. (p. 7) . (p. 5)

16. Part of getting to know yourself is 10. Stick with who like you for who you the world around you. (p. 6) really are. (p. 2)

17. These animals have unique howls that packmates can 11. Expressing your is an important part of recognize. (p. 10) staying healthy. (p. 4)

12. Writing is like playing a game—with words. (p. 21)

13. When you're angry, go for a or say prayers to cool off. (p. 8)

18. You can design new superhero for the Uplifters. (p. 16)

do is turn to the first page and find where Page 2:1) sinceriy,2) honesty, Page 26: Differences in bottom Page 10. 3) creativity, 4) imagination, image: gil at ef listening to fahtni il 1 5) oytulness, 6) original, adult girs at bottom let waving; Lightning and Luna comics are! | LOVE 7) self-respect, 8) courage boy at table being polite; boy A with basketball being friendly, them and so does my brother, who is 11 Page 11: Iceland, keel-illed man on stairs a center welcoming

toucan friend; girl on stairs at center

years old. | know | am getting older and rat ore a ESR q A At Page 23: Camera on counter at _at bottom center accepting food; closer to declaring my faith as a Baha'i, centr right; vil on back wall Kids at right clapping for and these comics help me make the right at center, canvas on easel at musicians; boy at bottom right centr journal on shelfat center helping with packages i 9 iva let; sewing machine on shel choice during my daily life and beyond. attop right cake on counter at Page 27: 1) work, 2) decides, yeni center right; bale slippers on 3) business, 4 alk, 5) listen, —Sahra A, age 14, California, U.S. shel atop left 6) friend, 7) open, 8) check

28 Brilliant Star % JULY/AUGUST 2010

[Page 29]Tame Vouw Momatenme TWMVvenTure

hen you were younger, you may have with bullies. When you're facing a problem, use

Wi there really were monsters under your powerful mind to tame those monsters. Calm your bed or in your closet. Today, you may still yourself with deep, slow breaths. Say prayers for imagine monsters lurking around—in your mind. strength. Make a list of actions you can take, and Fear, worry, stress, confusion, and other emotions choose one to start. can be just as troubling as those fanged, scary creatures You can make it through any forest of fear that kept you up at night. What do you do? when you focus on the positive with confidence

‘You can overcome the monsters and fears in and patience. When you need help, talk to your your mind. Maybe you're starting a new school or friends and family members—even the bravest you're upset with a friend. Maybe you're dealing knights get support in a battle.

4, Help the explorers face their monsters with courage and make their way to the Castle of Confidence. ' DP _ sy,

) FRawa'Me - ny

JULY/AUGUST 2010 * Brilliant Star 29 [Page 30]ea cn « 4 * es ba id aac) a + ( x I 2 "No two minds are alike, Nv

no two Gan Gomprehend alike, No two Gan Speak alike” —‘Abdu'l-Baha

) y J g

a, f #4 ro

¥ Brilliant Star www.brilliantstarmagazine.org EXPRESS YOURS! 3