SF ee a aes

A BAHA'I COMPANION FOR YOUNG SL :

[Page 0]Brilliant Star

Baha'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

Shannon Lynn Ali # Stewart Atwood * Christine Bennett Lisa Blecker © Marzi Branyan ® Wendy Chung ® Arden Coleman

Noel A. Druxman Ruth Forman # Angela Daves Haley Teall Liggitt © Dusty Littell « Esai Malia-Tharps © Doug Marshall Caleb Mathura © Donna Price # Mary K. Radpour * Nathan Rivera

Recess Monkey * Roz Savage « Natasha Tioukavkin Phil Unl © Ava Zamani © Naeim Zarei # Rahim Zelalem

Original illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted. By Lisa Blecker: Activity at for p. 9

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

Story and activity credits: By Amy Renshaw: 7, 11, 16, 24, 27 By Susan Engle: 4, 12, 20, 22, 28 By Annie Reneau: 2, 3,6, 8, 18, 19, 26 By Lisa Blecker: 5, 9 By Donna Price: 10, 14, 17, 29

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 Baha’u'lldh (“Glory of God” in Arabic) in 1863. Bahd’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.

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

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS AND RENEWALS To order or renew a subscription, contact Baha'i 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)

International 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 al 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 inthis magazine is copyrighted by the National Spiritual ‘Assembly of the Bahai of the U.S. or by individual contributors.

For permission to copy or translate material, contact: Rights and Permissions, Briliant Star, 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201 Teachers may photocapy 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 a topo, orto share our references. While we make every effort to choose reliable ‘websites, Biliant Star does not endorse or account for all contentin referenoed ‘websites. Furthermore, we urge caution and parental guidance when using the Internet. For more information about Internet safety, visit

‘wn. wiredkids.orgiwiredkids_org html

ISSN 0884-3695

Baha’u'llah’s Life: Mission of Peace What do miracles mean?

Music Café A song to sing as you cross the Milky Way

Nur’s Nook Create a mobile and let your star qualities shine.

Riley’s Rainforest Making the journey from heartache to happiness

Maya’s Mysteries What can you discover while you sleep?

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 43 Dr. Devious attacks the Uplifters’ Headquarters!

Stargazer: Ruth Forman Learn the secret to a good poem.

Calendars What's special about March and April?

Shining Lamp: Keith Ransom-Kehler How did she fight the forces of darkness?

Cosmo's Corner A crossword and more from our favorite chameleon

ae 29 aMAZEing ADVENTURE Explore the mysteries of the ancient pyramids.

[Page 1]NEW eTINATIONS

From Harry Potter to _ YA Sherlock Holmes, characters Singing Truths eo:

oe i i Tune in to the power of singing your own song. AS K Ss p> who solve mysteries entertain So, and inspire us. But do you ever

Stuart and Gabriella: Discovering Nature think of yourself as a detective? Your Zoom in on some of Earth’s wonders. imagination, determination, and curiosity can help you delve into the Be a Super Sleuth mysteries that are all around us.

Do you look for truth with your own eyes? In this issue of Brilliant Star, we invite you to polish your magnifying glass and investigate the wonders of life. What's beyond our solar

Enjoy Some “Pi” Munch on a mathematical mystery.

Stars of the Spirit system? Why did ancient cultures

Search for your spiritual strengths in the night sky. build pyramids? What happens to our souls after this life?

Zeke and Rhombus: Wonders of Space You can explore these questions

, . . Decode Zeke’s favorite facts about our universe. and many more. Leam fascinating

space facts with Zeke from Zilizag.

Meditation Station Investigate injustice with Josie the

Three ways to refresh your body, mind, and spirit . os detective. Try meditating,

Rocedofitove interpreting your dreams,

Make a bouquet of roses without the thorns. and creating a star- (4 studded mobile about —% im

Josie the Detective’s Blog you. You'll also meet | A YK

The Case of the Unjust Imprisonment Ruth Forman, an \ 3

award-winning writer New Superhero Suits for the Uplifters who believes we all Meet the winners of our design contest!

need poetry in our lives. There are so many mysteries

and questions in our world—

PRINTED IN THE U.S. AT AN FSC-CERTIFIED TANTS CEST eM Gy

FACILITY USING FSC-CERTIFIED PAPER, . ae AND ALSO PRINTED WITH SOY-BASED INKS. With love from Brilliant Star

g rine ome soy ink],

[Page 2]Ir | hen songbirds want to communicate something important, they say it through song. In fact, a /™ male nightingale can sing at least 180 tunes! The beauty of the nightingale’s music has inspired poets and storytellers for centuries. When you speak from the heart about who you are

and what you believe, you're singing your own unique

song. Sometimes it takes courage to find your voice. Some

ook closely

Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2011

kids might think it’s not cool to ask questions or share ~ ideas about life’s mysteries. They may not want to talk

about serious things such as religion, friendship, fears, or dreams for the future. That doesn’t mean you always have

feels right, express yourself. Talk about what you belie and what's important to you. Your “song” may speak to others and inspire them to sing along.

some

[Page 3]ABrief ; 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

ABD? SEN IPS 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.

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 Miracles and Mysteries

ave you ever heard of mysterious or miraculous events and wondered if they're true? The history of religion is full of such stories, including this one from the Baha'i writings about Mirza Ja‘far-i-Yazdi. He was a religious scholar in the city of Yazd, Persia (now Iran). When he learned about the Baha’i Faith, he accepted it wholeheartedly. He traveled to Baghdad, Iraq, and met Baha'u'llah. Mirza Ja‘far decided to give up his position and instead work as a carpenter and as a servant for Baha’u'llah’s house- hold. He felt content to humbly serve Baha'u'llah, His family, and the other Baha'is.

In 1868, Baha’u'llah and about 70 family members and friends—including Mirza Ja‘far—were exiled to ‘Akka, in what is now Israel. Though they had not committed any crime, they were sent to the foul prison-city because the government wanted to stop Baha’u'llah’s teachings of unity from spreading.

After arriving in ‘Akka, Mirza Ja‘far became terribly ill. His condition grew worse and worse, until the doctor said he could do nothing more to help him. Finally, Mirza Ja‘far stopped breathing, and his body went limp and cold. Family and friends surrounded him, weeping and mourning his death. Another Baha’i, Mirza Aqa Jan, ran to Baha'u'llah and told Him of Mirza Ja‘far’s passing. Baha'u'llah said to him, “Go; chant the prayer of Ya Shafi—O Thou, the Healer—and Mirza Ja‘far will come alive. Very rapidly, he will be as well as ever.”

The prayer was chanted. Mirza Ja‘far began to stir. Slowly, he started to move his limbs. Within an hour, he was sitting

Mirza Ja'far was imprisoned for his faith in ‘Akka, Israel, with Baha'u'llah and many of His followers. While in prison, Mirza Ja‘far lived through a very mysterious experience.

up, laughing and telling jokes with his friends! He lived a long time after that, continuing to assist Baha’u'llah and the Baha'is.

Messengers of God, such as Moses, Jesus, Muhammad, the Bab, and Baha’u'llah, had the power to cause miracles. While stories such as this are remarkable, the Baha’i writings say that these accounts should not be seen as proof of God’s Messengers. ‘Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’u'llah’s son who led the Baha'i Faith after His passing, said, “many wonderful things were done by Baha'u'llah, but... they do not constitute proofs...” He also explained that to the Messengers of God, “these miracles and wonderful signs have no importance . . . They are still only proofs and arguments for those who are present when they are performed, and not for those who are absent.”

The true proof of the Messengers of God is in Their words. When Their teachings have the ability to change people’s hearts and inspire them to be of service to others—that is the real miracle.

MARCH/APRIL 2011

Brilliant Star 3

[Page 4]MUSIC CAFE

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

VON’T YOU JUST LOVE TO LOOK UP AT THE STARS AND THINK ABOUT WHAT’S OUT

IT’S MIND-BOGELING TO

TRY TO IMSSINE. THERE’S SO THERE? OUR UNIVERSE IS SO IMMENSE THAT ° SOME SCIENTISTS SAY IT’S ENDLESS. MICH IYSTERY ABOUT . .- e a , THE GALAX SEA * By Recess Monkey e wT Intro H c= oS eee ea rie: Do you e-ver won-de - r, oh-h-h - h e ra Chorus (After Verse 3, sing Chopus 2x., then repeat Intro) j

= the gal-ax- y? Gal -ax-y, - Floatonthe gal-ax -y | - _‘I’m get-ting lost ust sail-ing A-cross - the gal - ax-y_ 14 ‘wo Verse 1,3 Verse! \ ial { SS _——————— = } ———— we o yt ¥+—t t Cree a I dreamt a ma - gic spaceboat Filled its sails with in -ter-stel - lar star-dust Pow-der blu 4 e, 21 py — | Verse 2 on , a ccless | pe ee | tr] gee i ae i su Oc-tane three nine-ty two =o I took off in a flash To 28 pte —— \ \ ' ==F BF SIP gs el’ PF CPF rp ee fi Loo Ne « eeleed | e nr v iu T T — bold -ly go Where no one’s e-ver I’ll send pho-ton -gra-phs and light-speed Let-ters to - 0, Pll send themto y - ou 35. A |__,To Chorus Verse 3 wy - 2 JT 8 Peele eg FO ee SS ee eo r vy ad L-3 : ot a yo ‘Warp-ing time and space,a ga - lac - tic ra-cing cre w throu- gh the ‘The Milk - y Way is 42 De t t t ++ T — a ] eee ee a | yd J end ee ev vy T like a ti-ver When 1 zoompast it gives a shi-ver 0 - 0 - oh, T'msend-ing rip - ples To Chorus ay: ; a : J] e T v C3 \ throu - gh Great balls of fire, an as - tral _fli-er’s view throu-gh the

Check out some incredible space facts on page 17.

stars. In a similar way, your virtues and

talents are like brilliant constellations. Throughout your life, you can make endless discoveries about your mysterious self. By visiting new places, exploring ideas, and trying different things, you'll learn more about your interests and gifts.

Being aware of your strengths and skills will help

you improve and achieve your goals. From playing

1 amazing universe sparkles with trillions of

Youll Need Two strips of 8" x 2" (20 cm x 5 cm) firm poster board ruler © colorful markers © 19 paper clips (about 1/4" or 4.5 cm) © scissors 8 pieces of 3" x 3" (8 cm x 8 cm) heavy paper ¢ pencil * hole punch

Stiy Mohile oF Me

11] Cut one strip of a board into two 4" (10 cm) pieces.

YO

() Punch another hole along bottom edge of long strip, under center hole.

2 | Punch a hole centered on one long edge of all three strips, to mark top for hanging.

On one piece of paper, draw a star that fills page and cut it out. Trace around it to create a star on each sheet. Cut stars out.

o £2 >

Mystery OF Me

“Be as stars, brilliant and sparkling in the loftiness of their heavenly station.”. — ‘Abdu’l-Baha

volleyball to conducting a science experiment, you'll know when to ask for help and when it’s your turn to shine.

As you explore, you can find creative ways to use the arts to express your feelings, thoughts, and dreams. Follow the steps below to make a mobile that reflects your radiant self.

EXPLORE THE UNIVERSE INSIDE YOU.

13 Along bottom edge of each strip, punch a hole 2" (1.3 cm) from a side.

ez

7) Place strips so multiple holes are at bottom. Label long strip “(Your Name)’s Best Virtues.” Label one short strip “Interests and Hobbies” and one “Goals and Dreams.”

16 | Punch a hole in Repeat same labels on back.

top and bottom of all eight stars.

a Link paper clips together and thread them through holes as shown. Hang stars under the correct strips.

{10 | Link a chain of three paper clips to top hole to hang and share your radiance.

MARCH/APRIL 2011 %& Brilliant Star [Page 6]Stuart and Gabriella:

STUART, LOOK AT THIS! WHOA, THAT’S NATURE /S THE BEST. LISTEN TO THE TOTALLY! HEY, HAVE THOSE ANTS ARE CARRYING {| AMAZING. THEY BIR?S—SMELL THE FRESH AIR. OUR YOU SEEN MY NEW LEAVES THAT ARE BIGGER [¥ MUST BE HEAVING |

SENSES HELP US TAKE IT ALL IN. Pt | CLOSE-UP PHOTOS? 4 CAN YOU GUESS

What mysteries of nature did Gabriella capture in her photographs? Unscramble the words to find out.

stg. Photos by (top to bottom, left to right): tropicdreams, Pablo H Caridad, mlorenz, EcoPrint, 6 Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2011 Sergey Popov V, Tatjana Strelkova, Sandra Cunningham, CREATISTA, Sebastian Duda SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 [Page 7]A

“Observe with your own eyes and not with those of others, hearken with your own ears and not with the ears of others, and discover mysteries with the help of your own consciences and not with those of others.”

— ‘Abdu'l-Baha

n books and on TV, detectives search diligently I to find clues and solve mysteries. They often face great danger, but they never give up. They keep going until they uncover the truth.

In real life, we encounter mysteries large and small all the time. You may wonder about science, spirituality, or everyday life. Will we ever discover life on other planets? Does God answer our prayers? How do I deal with the bullies at school?

When you're grappling with a puzzling question, trust yourself and do your best to figure it out. You can ask your friends and family for their ideas, but think about the best solution for you. God gave each of us an amazing brain for solving problems. Gather the facts, then rely on the answers that feel right in your own mind and heart.

Being curious about the world can make life an exciting adventure. What will you investigate today?

|

uorenaya

DIsILNaIDS 3

LISTEN

< wind | ae NR { rier , |e Jali e mitt H : ks OPEN Ko, : 6x ‘fay EON ss oi zs | Ne g ‘é IMAGINATION a | 2. ¢ — % S 7 La ° i] eis an 1 l @ \ 2 o

Z « ” — . e 7 a Dy = AF coal ea ’ os Ex ‘ MATH ] |—— 4 \ = . ‘ \ of fat, OS SR 1. ‘Keep an mind and 4. Take to keep track 8. Brainstorm many possible “>. g put aside any prejudices you of ideas and clues you discover. to your ae E have about your topic. . mystery, then figure out which y - &. at the topic from = y . 7 . . one fits best. OF Find people who know about many different points of view. - your topic and ask a lot of . . Spend time daydreaming — your 6. When exploring science, try some | q is a great source of ideas! Gather all the you ia 4 full Z can find from books, newspapers, Sa FS GS UE 10. Be patient and don’t =~

the Internet, and other sources.

the world around you.

up, even if you run into challenges,

SEE

MARCH/APRIL 2011

x Brilliant Star 7 [Page 8]“Send down... from the clouds of Thy mercy the rains of Thy healing...” —Baha’u'llh

f you've ever had a favorite friend move away or lost a family pet, you know how sad and empty you can feel. Those emotions are even stronger and deeper when a person close to you dies. You might feel sad, angry, scared, or worried. Or you might be numb, like you can't feel anything at all. Though it is hard, grieving over a loss is a process that everyone goes through at some point. And everyone grieves differently. Some people can’t eat or sleep, while some eat or sleep more than usual. Some people like to talk about their feelings, while others need time alone to think or pray. As long as you're not hurting yourself or others, there’s no wrong way to grieve. One thing that may help is to imagine your departed loved one in a beautiful, peaceful place. Many faiths teach that after the body's death, the soul can move on to a spiritual world to be closer to God.

Explore and Soar: Honoring Loved Oncs

‘hen those we care about leave this world, it’s

atural to want to hold on to them somehow.

You can honor them with tributes to their lives. Here are some ideas to celebrate your loved ones:

o Create special frames for your favorite photos of them.

Oo: Participate in charities or service projects in their names.

Living with Loss

Focusing on happy memories can help, too. Sharing funny stories with friends and family can lighten

the mood and help ease some of the sadness. Try recording your memories in a journal or scrap- book. If a friend has moved, letters, e-mails, and photos can help keep your friendship strong.

Finally, praying—for yourself, your loved one, and others who are grieving—can bring you peace. It might be hard to believe, but in time, your heavy sadness will become lighter.

8 Brilliant Star # MARCH/APRIL 2011

(Senery

{ QuéBlions||

hat do you want to know about

staying healthy and happy? Health can involve your body, mind, emotions, and spirit. Send your questions to brilliant@usbne.org. Responses are given by a health professional.

©6 What do you do if your

best friend moves away and

you feel really sad about it? 99 —Arden, age 13

Dear Arden,

It would be helpful to talk to your mom or dad or an understanding grown-up about how hard it is for you, now that your friend is gone. Whenever we are sad and talk about it with someone who is sympathetic, we feel better. That's one reason why we all need to learn to be good listeners when our friends are sad. That way, everyone helps everyone else, and we are all better for it. Another thing that might help is to call or write your friend who moved away, or be a friend to someone new. That person might unexpectedly end up becoming a good friend, too.

Wishing you health and happiness,

Mary K. Radpour Licensed Family Counselor

o Hold a prayer gathering to remember and pray for them.

oO Plant a tree or garden in their memory.

o Create a scrapbook of favorite times.

o Before you fall asleep at night, think about them and silently tell them about your day. [Page 9]“One ‘of the ceed phenomena is the dream. Behold how many secrets are deposited therein, how many wisdoms treasured up, how many worlds concealed.” —Bahd’u'llah

pa napa Bhs NIN

World of Dream

| ave you ever wondered why we dream? It’s the night goes on, dreams can get longer. You're more

a mystery that hasn’t yet been solved. Some likely to remember dreams that occur shortly before you

experts believe dreams don’t have a purpose. _—_ wake up. But being awakened by an alarm clock can Others think they help us sort through emotions, disrupt your memories. It’s easier to remember dreams concerns, or information. when you wake up naturally and peacefully.

When you sleep, your brain is still active. Most Images in dreams can be interpreted in many dreams occur during periods of sleep called Rapid Eye different ways. You may find that some dreams have Movement (REM), when your eyes move quickly under important meanings, while others don’t seem to have your eyelids. It’s common to dream several times each any meaning at all. Try to discover if there are any night. When you have longer periods of REM sleep as helpful messages in the world of your dreams.

"WHAT DO YOUR DREAMS MEAN?

Dreams may give us insight into our feelings or goals. Try | you can remember. Ask yourself what the people, places, recording your next dream below, or start a dream journal. and things mean to you. Dream symbols and meanings can be

As soon as you wake up, write down the details and feelings unique to each person, but here are some common interpretations.

Flying 2 Light eC Monsters Freedom, optimism, rising Gaining clarity or insight Danger, conflict, above problems, adventure % >» about a situation 2 fear, anger

Being Lost = : Confusion, anxiety, . | Fear of failure, 1°) VY Hopefulness, dreams trying to find direction = concern abouta challenge you want to accomplish

Your Name Date of dream:

What | dreamed:

Key symbols and feelings:

What the dream could mean:

MARCH/APRIL 2011 *% Brilliant Star 9

[Page 10]“Sa,

hat does apple pie have to do with math?

On Pi Day, March 14, all flavors of pie

come in handy. Pi (7) stands for a circle’s circumference (the measurement around it) divided by the diameter (distance across the middle). It’s always the same, for any size circle! Pi is often rounded "| ‘to 3.14, but incredibly, it really goes on forever. It’s been calculated to over 5 trillion digits! And there isn’t—and never will be—a repeating pattern.

|Enjoy Some “Pi’|

Ancient cultures liked pi as much as we do. A Greek mathematician calculated pi over 2,000 years ago. The symbol we use today is a Greek letter.

We need pi to engineer bridges, round buildings, airplane parts, and many other things built with circles. Pi also appears in equations for electricity and the work of the famous scientist Albert Einstein. Pi Day is Einstein’s birthday, too. Celebrate with a double serving of pie!

These kids are celebrating Pi Day with a pie-baking contest and other tun activities. Find 17 TC symbols in the scene.

I]

ROR eis Fa ion SH) yc RST USER TAPE ct MAKES. Stati =) measure to €o arounp | }Shiv ¢ ACIRCLE 10 GET THE ety - (| CIRCUMFERENCE. THEN Z 8 : MEASURE THE PIAMETER Flatts <9 ACROSS THE MIDDLE. ; DIVIDE THE CIRCUMFER- Theane 10 ENCE BY THE DIMNETER, HONE. Too! de AND YOU GET Pll aise 2 , Mi} i“ J i> + ye re & . ) i +5 } ) es ZN, ,. / “ ° f = 0 !) ° \\e 4 ? A : eer ae a 2h ae io - we ™~ Ki <a cS } a

Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2011

‘SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 [Page 11]The moon has filled us with wonder through the ages. But did you know that the moon actually affects life on Earth? The moon's gravity pulls on Earth and its oceans, causing tides, or daily changes in sea level. The moon also helps keep the tilt of Earth stable. Without the moon, Earth would wobble more on its axis, causing extreme climate changes that could make life impossible.

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

These glowing bands of color, called an aurora, appear most often in polar areas such as Alaska. They form when electrons and other particles from the sun collide with gas atoms in the air. Unscramble

the letters to find their common name:

ORTRNHEN SITLGH

“All the members of this endless universe are linked one to another.” —Baha‘i Writings )

WOW, REALLY?

EXPLoRE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AnD ITS CREATURES

Have a swap party! Invite friends over to trade

There are about 146 moons in our solar system. Jupiter and Saturn each have at least 50!

your old books, clothes, and toys. It’s a great way to reduce and reuse your stuff.

Roz Savage, the first woman to row solo across the Pacific Ocean, has rowed over 11,000 miles (17,700 km). She's a United Nations Climate Hero who speaks around the world about environmental issues. Roz says, “If we all pull together, we CAN build

a better, greener future, the same way that I row

This large insect can hide from prey by blending in with twigs and bushes. It’s found in the southern U.S. and known for the horn on top of its head. Fill in the blanks to find its name:

T X S UN CO N ANT §S

MARCH/APRIL 2011 »% Brilliant Star 11 [Page 12]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?

Age: 9 Ss

| live in: Wisconsin, U.S.

| want to be: s

Football player

Something | like about me I'm good at sports.

Football, Xbox 360, C

Hobbies or sports: drawing, LEGO [toys]

Favorite Baha’ activities: Teaching, children’s classes, hosting Feast*

Favorite animal or pet: Wolf

Places I'd love to visit: My birthplace and Seattle, WA

| like to help people by: Giving money, cleaning up for them

Life has many mysteries. What's one you'd love to solve? Why was the earth born? Why did life pick this planet?

How do you know God exists? Someone had to create the universe and everything in it. Ijust look at the planets and things around me and know it was created by something.

If you could ask God one question, what would it be? What does heaven

look like?

Age: 14

I live in: North Carolina, U.S. | want to be:

A doctor ak Best quality or virtue: Friendliness

Something | like about me: Very neat handwriting

Favorite Baha’i activities: Attending junior youth class, reading the holy writings of Baha’u’llah

Favorite animal or pet: Dolphin or cat

Place I'd love to visit:

Haifa, Israel, to visit the shrine[s] of Baha’u'llah and the Bab *

What do you think is your purpose on this planet?

To serve humanity and teach the [Baha'i] Faith

| like to help people by: Teaching children’s classes

~ ~

Age: 10

I live in: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

| want to be: We Doctor

Something | like about me: Irun very fast.

Favorite Baha’ activities: Attend children’s class and devotional meetings

Favorite animal or pet: Dog

Life has many mysteries. What's one you'd love to solve? Thave always been won- dering ifthere are any other planets out there in the uni- verse that are full of life like planet Earth. [hope to be able to explore and find an answer to my question.

How do you know God exists? By studying the holy writings of Baha’u'llah. Teachings... from all religions of the world help us understand our life in this world and bring joy and happiness to our hearts.

Place I'd love to visit: Canada

| like to help people by:

Opening a shelter for the poor > s

Life has many mysteries. What's one you'd love to solve? Why high wind (like hurricanes) is blowing and destroying build- ings and caus[ing] destruction. I would like to invent a machine/ instrument to stop high winds [from] destroying everything.

How do you know

that God exists?

If He does not exist, how are we alive? Our life itself shows the existence of God.

What do you think is your purpose on this planet? To have a nice family

12

Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2011

$ a Baha'i coi aity gathering

isultation, and fellowship [Page 13]J

Age: 12 + Life has many mysteries.

| live in: Hlinois, US. x What's one you'd love to solve? verily the light thereof shall brighten , Why do some animals go

Best quality or virtue: extinct? Will those ani-

Trustworthiness mals return? If so, would

it take a millennium?

“God has crowned you with honor and

Something | like about me: Iam proud that lam How do you know worthy of trust.lam that God exists? x¢ aa oN

honest with family and Youdon’t. You just have

friends. * to have faith in God. Cea

Hobbies or sports: If you could ask God one ive in: Ely, U.K. Fencing, wrestling,and —_ question, what would it be? | want to be: ys I'dliketotakeupSCUBA Why was the world An optometrist

Favorite animal or pet: created? Something | like about me: Genghis, our ferret I persevere to try and

Places I'd love to visit: Haifa and Rome

achieve my goals. w®

Hobbies or sports: Horse riding, swimming, and baking I would love to know how to bring people together to make one big family. a

What do you think is your purpose on this planet? Our purpose here is to help others and acquire

Favorite Baha’i activities: Ilove going to my junior

virtues. According to youth group, Feasts,*the How do you know that the daily prayer, we are Baha'i Arts Academy, Godexists? : here “to know Thee and and summer schools. ps Allof the Manifestations mm to worship Thee.” al , _ of God have given us evzalltl evetio ui the same consistent Australia message about God and «x | like to help people by: spiritual principles. aA Listening to their prob- What do you think is your NX Age: 10 What do you think is your lems and tryingtocome purpose on this planet? | live in: Georgia, U.S. Purpose on ‘tis ples? er Ibelieve that my —_

—_— Baha'u'llah tells us that Life has many mysteries. purpose in life is to be

| want to be: our purpose is to help What’s oneyou’dlovetosolve? of service to mankind. *«

Aveterinarian others. When we help others, we feel good

Best lit irtue: est quality or virtue: and so do they.

Loving

Life has many mysteries.

What's one you'd love to solve?

x What happens after we die

Something | like about me:

I'm funny. Here’s how:

Hobbies or sports:

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

d ‘ How do you know that or Brilliant Star, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201. rawing = ;

bye God exists? Include your name, age, mailing and e-mail addresses, Favorite Baha ‘activities: Because when we pray, and phone number. Mention “Radiant Star” in the Children’s classes, Feast," He always answers e-mail subject line or in your message.

and Holy Days 2. When it’s your turn to shine, we'll send you questions

Feavanikoenianel ar [pets and a form for you and your parents to sign.

Dog

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. 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). )

Place I'd love to visit: Haifa

| like to help people by: Doing things to help them make their day easier

MARCH/APRIL 2011 % Brilliant Star 13 [Page 14]Z

BAXTER AND BRIDGET TA 5

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HELLO, T COME IN PEACE TO WORK WITH YOU. WILL YOU GIVE ME A TOUR?

BLAST THEM WITH THE HOW CAN YOU COME IN

SOUNP POUNDERS! PEACE WITH WEAPONS? NOW SET ME INSIDE!

14 Brilliant Star 4 MARCH/APRIL 2011 [Page 15]ERT! ©

IL THOUVEHT

RED ALERT! BWWWAHHS

You’? NEVER GET HERE.

TENEW MY PROGRAM WOULD WORK ON YOU. YOU'RE “FITTING IN” yay AFTER AL!

1AB 19,

11’S NOT WORKING ON

YOU, BROADCAST THE SUPERPOWER REMOVAL PROGRAM THROUGH HO. AND YOU, GET THE ERASERS ON-SCREEN!

T’MAT THE UPLIFTERS’ HQ. NOW! ONCE THE WORLD SEES THESE

“SUPERHEROES” UNDER MY COMMAND, THERE’S NO STOPPING ME.

STOP ELOATING. STHERE’S TROUBLE!

WORLD? LEADERS GOVERNMENTS THE UPLIFTERS ARE ACCUSING AN? ARMIES ARE HAVE ADIRECT LINK UH, LVON’T EACH OTHER OF ON HIGH ALERT. [LJ —f TO THE PRESIDENT. | | HAVE THAT KIND CREATING HOW WILL YOU TAKE GET HIM ONLINE, OF ACCESS. MSs CHAOS! CONTROL NOW? LUNA. THEN WE’LL MOVE ON TO OTHER - py YOU STILL WORLD LEAVERS. { DON’T GET

IT. WATCH AND LEARN!

YOU'LL FIGURE |

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ZZ GREAT! BUT DR. DEVIOUS

WHIRLWIND!

THAT TRANSMITTER CONNECTS US TO THE PRESIDENT ANP OTHER WORLD LEADERS! BUT ZAPPO WANTS TO SHUT IT DOWN. SHE’S IN THE TUNNEL!

CAN ANYONE STOP DR. DEVIOUS?

IT’S THE ENP OF THE UPLIFTERS! NO ONE CAN STOP ME NOW!

MARCH/APRIL 2011

x» Brilliant Star

15 [Page 16]x Ss

. Stars of 4 of ‘the ne Spinig 3

the number of stars can be dazzling. In fact, some scientists recently found that the universe may have three times more stars than previously estimated—300 sextillion in all! No one knows exactly how many stars exist, though we’ve studied them with awe for centuries.

the vast universe—the human soul.

hen you gaze at the sky on a clear night,

Yet God created something even more amazing than

Your soul is your spirit, or your true self. It is the part of you that lives forever. Your soul is on a never-ending journey toward God. You advance on the journey when you pray, meditate, read sacred writings, and practice virtues. Even when your body dies in this world, your soul continues to develop in the spiritual world. The strengths you build here on Earth will help you shine like a brilliant star on your

eternal voyage.

In this night sky, connect stars to spell words from the Baha'i writings about the soul or spirit. The letters are connected by lines going in any direction: up, down, forward, backward, or diagonally. You can use a letter in more than one word. But don’t use a letter more than once in the same word.

a ~*~ 2. Myx NVAN oS te oO Maids re eae a tos =.4 Wis

Ro ‘ ns ee

HEAVENLY

16 Brilliant Star 4 MARCH/APRIL 2011

ei Tye 2.9 =

JN

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88:

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INVISIBLE LIGHT

300 sextillion = 3 with 23 zeros! Study conducted by an Dokkum and Charlie Conroy

4

[Page 17]—

Z

with my pet, Rhombus. We have an awesome

time zipping through galaxies to study the mysteries of the universe. And there are a lot of them! I see that Earthlings like to explore space,

| |. Zeke here, from the planet Zilizag, along

and set up an International Space Station. People on my planet are on a quest to learn

too. You've visited the moon, sent rovers to Mars,

about other forms of life. We also want to find out how diverse creatures have built peaceful worlds. Zilizagians got rid of war and violence eons ago. On Zilizag, like on Earth, scientists work

together to investigate mysteries on our planet and beyond. If you love to observe and learn, like me, maybe someday you'll explore the wonders of outer space.

Wfenez-ene7-woortzz' fp \

Rhombus is right! We've learned some fascinating sfacts, Check them out with my Zilizag | Decoder.

: =

1 Scientists believe the

began expanding with an explosion known as

the Big Bang about 14 billion years ago.

2 Earth’s system formed about

oHFOOR 4.6 billion years ago.

One giant exploding star, called a supernova,

was 100 billion times as

as Earth’s sun.

4 Some are so far away that it oOORS

takes centuries for their light to reach Earth.

Ao Ce Eu Ge 16 | m1 \ be el a ae ik)

v

HO@©O@OUROH

6 Jupiter has a

1 The tallest

eH@oCoOO @ I've heard that large

LEKE’S ZILIZAE DECODER

Ko Moe Lo N@® Po Rm Jo ve wi 7a

Your sun contains over 99% of the BO0¢ of your solar system.

that’s bigger than co) the planet Mercury.

in your OEHOOOO® solar system is on Mars—almost triple the

height of Mt. Everest on Earth.

@0O0POHO. including the Milky Way, have huge black holes

at their centers. Maybe I'll go find out!

Qo So Um Wr Yo

x Brilliant Star 17

MARCH/APRIL 2011 [Page 18]Meditation Station

dation ping ao of pen”

eeling stress from homework? Upset by a and strengthened” and “receives the breath of the bully or an argument with a friend? You may Holy Spirit.”

have heard that meditation can help, but Some studies show that meditation can also have physical and emotional health benefits. Making a little time for meditation each day may help you in

countless ways. There are many forms—try different

maybe you're not sure how to do it.

Many people use meditation as a way to connect with the inner self or spirit, and to deeply calm the body and mind. The Baha'i writings say that during meditation, the soul is “informed

ones until you find what’s most comfortable for you. The three below can get you started.

Mindful Meditation Mindfulness is when you're fully aware of the present moment. Sit in a comfortable position

Mantra Meditation A mantra is a word or phrase that you repeat over and over, aloud or silently. Choose one that has meaning to you,

such as “love,” or a spiritual saying, such as “Allah-u-Abha” (meaning “God the All-Glorious” in Arabic).* Find a comfortable, quiet place to sit.

with your back straight. Close your eyes and focus on your breath moving in and out of your body. As thoughts go

through your mind, don’t try to stop them. Notice them, but then let them go and focus again on your breath.

Try to be out in nature. Close your eyes and repeat your mantra calmly.

e

Moving Meditation

This yoga pose is called Standing Sun. It’s one way to meditate through movement.

~

B Stretch your arms above D Grasp the backs of your legs

your head. Keep your palms and hold a few seconds.

together and look up.

ey)

E Inhale. Stand up slowly,

A Stand straight with feet raising your arms above

€ Exhale, bend forward, your head again, as in

together. Exhale. Then

inhale slowly and lift your and keep your head steps A and B. Exhale

arms out to your sides. between your arms. and lower your arms.

Brilliant Star #% MARCH/APRIL 2011 * Bahéis recite “Allah-u-Abha’ 95 times daily

18 [Page 19](CS) A > > k; f ov CS coy) ©Se§ of Love SS

“In the garden of thy heart plant naught but the rose of love, and from[edit]

We nightingale of affection and desire loosen not thy hold.” —Bahd’u'll4h

I magine =: that a new Messenger of God is was the beginning of a new era for humanity. The

living on Earth, but His identity is a mystery. In Babis were overjoyed with His announcement. the mid-1800s, a Messenger of God called the Bab Baha'u'llah spent 12 days in the Ridvan Garden told His followers, the Babis, that another Messenger before departing for Constantinople (now Istanbul),

would soon come. )) Turkey. Every day, gardeners laid roses in the ©) ' In April 1863, in Baghdad, Iraq, the mystery oS center of Baha’u'llah’s tent. The pile grew so high S was solved in a place called the Garden of Ridvan. that visitors couldn't see over it. Baha’u'llah, a Persian nobleman, announced that He The Festival of Ridvan is celebrated from April 21 to was the Messenger of God promised by the Bab. He said = May 2. The first, ninth, and twelfth days (April 21, April that a new Messenger would not appear for another 29, and May 2) are Holy Days on which work or school 1,000 years. He also forbade the use of violence to should be suspended. Around the world, Baha'is celebrate defend or promote religion, and He indicated that it Ridvan with prayers, parties, and other festivities. P. R PR rf a You'll Need aper hsose Fer ection ESD Create paper roses in different sizes and colors, and use thern as decorations for 10 cm) squares of colored paper Ridvan or other special events. Display them in a bowl as a centerpiece, glue them + pencil, scissors, to a wreath made from cardboard, or hide them around a room for guests to find. and glue

Starting from the center of With scissors, trim off excess Starting from the outside, roll the paper spiral. the paper, draw a spiral about paper around spiral. Then cut Keep rolling until you reach the round part at the center. ‘2° (1.3 cm) wide and continue along the line you've drawn until you reach the edge. until you reach the middle.

g ) To secure the flower, place a drop or two = Make a 4" x 4" rose, then try papers between 2" x 2" of glue between the flower and the (© cmx5 cm) and 6’ x 6" (15 cm x 15 cm). Adjust the width of

rounded end underneath it. Let dry. the spiral accordingly, so it circles the sheet about four times.

Photos courtesy of Wendy Chung MARCH/APRIL 2011 *% Brilliant Star 19 [Page 20]HOME

ARCHIVES

Monday, March 7, 6:30 p.m.

Just bumped into Mrs. Johnson coming out of her apartment. She was in a hurry, but she gave me a hug and said, “I’m off to give a talk at the college about the Baha’is in Iran. The more people know about their prob- lems, the better.” What problems? Hmmm. |’m going to find out!

@ 6 COMMENTS

Tuesday, March 8, 7:28 a.m.

Told Mom I'd be at the library after school, looking into what’s happening in Iran with the Baha’is. She said, “I’ve read a little in the paper. Let me know what you find.” | love that my parents really like to keep up with what I’m interested in. And they let me explore in my own way. @ 4 comments

Tuesday, March 8, 9:35 p.m. Wow, there are tons of stories. Why haven't | heard more about this? Facts: Baha’is in Iran have been perse- cuted and even killed since the early days of the Baha’i Faith in the 1800s.

Today, many Baha'is have lost their jobs, businesses, and money. They can’t go to college, and kids even get bullied by teachers at school, just because they’re Baha’is!

Lots of Baha’is have been put in prison because of their religion. About 60 are in jail right now. Sad. Why do things like this happen? I'll catch up with Mrs. Johnson tomorrow.

@ 9 comments

Wednesday, March 9, 4:33 p.m. Glad Mrs. Johnson was in. She offered me some yummy-looking cookies. But she didn’t eat any because of the Baha’i Fast, so | decided not to, either. Besides, | was hungrier for answers. So | asked, “What's up with the Iranian govern- ment? Why do they want to get rid of Baha'is? I’ve been learning about the Baha’i Faith for a couple of years now, and it seems pretty peaceful.”

Bahd’i leaders now imprisoned in lran

Mrs. Johnson’s smile disap- peared. “It’s prejudice and hatred.” Whoa. “When the Baha’i Faith began in the 1840s, the Muslim clergy and government wanted to stop it.” She said that even though Baha’is believe in peace, they’re still persecuted. In 2008, seven Baha’i leaders —two women and five men—were jailed for almost two years without a trial. Then they were sentenced to 10 years in prison! They’re called the “Yaran,” which means “Friends.” Mrs. Johnson heard that the prison conditions are harsh and dangerous. Scary!

@ 12 comments

Thursday, March 10, 6:00 a.m. Didn't sleep well. Injustice makes me CGR-A-Z-Y. Sounds like the Johnsons are up, too. During the fast, they eat before the sun comes up and after it goes down. Got up to find clues about the Yaran on the Internet so | can do something:

+ The prison is filthy, and they’re crammed into small cells. They don’t get much food. Hmmm. Send food and blankets?

+ Baha’is from all over the U.S. have talked with members of Congress about this. Write to my senators and representative?

+ The United Nations and governments around the world have urged Iran to treat the Baha’is justly. Write article for school paper?

@ 15 cOMMENTS

Thursday, March 10, 3:54 p.m.

At lunch, | told Frieda, Eric, and Aziz everything. “The blankets and food won't reach them, if they’re being treated so badly in prison,” Frieda said. "The Baha’is are being bullied big time. Bullies stink,” Aziz said. Eric added that he could find the e-mail addresses for Congress so we can all write them. My friends rock!

Lunch with Frieda, Eric, and Aziz

@ 19 COMMENTS

20 Brilliant Star # MARCH/APRIL 2011

Learn more about the Baha’is in Iran at iran.bahai.us [Page 21]> THE CASE OF THE UNJUST IMPRISONMENT

Thursday, March 10, 9:50 p.m. Sent off letters to Congress, but it’s just not enough. Reread all my notes for clues. Bingo! | found one about lots of prayer meetings that have been held for the Yaran. Will talk to Mom and Dad about having people over to pray. Soon.

@ 10comments

Saturday, March 12, 10:01 p.m. Smells of fresh bread and chicken soup filled our apartment. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson brought seven white candles, one for each of the Yaran. They told us more about them. They've hardly seen their families— and one man has a son around my age.

My Baha'i neighbors, the Johnsons

After supper, Dad sang “We Shall Overcome.” Aziz chanted a prayer, and Frieda said the Lord’s Prayer. | read from my copy of The Hidden Words that Mrs. Johnson gave me when | started investigating the Baha’i Faith: “O SON OF MAN! For everything there is a sign. The sign of love is fortitude under My decree and patience under My trials.”

As the candles flickered, | prayed that the Yaran can feel the love coming their way.

Aziz chants a beautiful prayer

When everyone left, Mom and Dad asked how | was doing. Suddenly, | was crying. Guess | didn’t realize how upset | was about people being punished for their religion. Mom and Dad promised they'd write to Congress, too.

You know what | think? | think anything is possible when you have faith and fantastic family and friends. I’m off to bed, but first I'll say some more prayers for people who face injustice in lran— and everywhere.

@ 23 COMMENTS

ABOUT ME

Hi! My name is Josie. | love investigating mysteries. | also really like writing, so my family helped me set up this blog for my case notes and other thoughts. If you have cool ideas about where | can look for clues, please share. Or just say hey and tell me what you love to do.

I'ma writer for my school’s newspaper. My dream is to be a lawyer or journalist. For me, tracking down the truth is like a treasure hunt!

MY FAVORITE THINGS > Hanging out with friends

> Solving mysteries big and small

> Exploring cultures and religions. Love to travel.

> Writing, tae kwon do, soccer, baseball, science, reading, and singing

> Animals, especially birds, dolphins, and gorillas

MARCH/APRIL 2011

Brilliant Star 21

[Page 22]Q. What was your most challenging experience as a kid? Moving from my mom’s house to my dad’s house when

I was about nine. It was a very big change. I moved from

a rural environment, where I got to play in the country pretty much every day, to an urban environment [in upstate New York] . . . One of the ways I was able to make that an easier experience actually was by meeting a Baha'i community that was very loving and was a won- derful, very diverse family that took me in as their own.

Q. How did you learn about the Baha'i Faith?

I started meeting the [Baha’is] of Rochester, New York. And I really loved the community . .. When I was

12, I went to some Baha’i classes and went to Baha'i schools on Sundays .. . I went to my first youth conference, and really loved it. By the time I was 15,

Q. How does being a Baha'i affect your work?

Being a Baha'i always gives me a sense of hope throughout things that might be very difficult. As

a writer, you have to be wide open and be willing to be a witness to whatever is going on, whether it’s beautiful,

it brighten the whole of your years this far . . words, poet Ruth Forman urges us to make our dreams come true. She delights in crafting poems that readers of any age can understand and love. Ruth began writing as a kid growing up in Massachusetts and New York. At about age seven, she wrote a book she called Poems for Kids. She says, “Creating that first book of poems when I was a kid maybe made it a little bit easier for me to do a book of poems when I was older.” After graduating from the University of California, Berkeley, Ruth published We Are the Young Magicians, winning the prestigious Barnard New Women Poets Prize. Since then, she’s written more books, including an award-winning book for kids, and her work is in many poetry anthologies. She also shares her passion for poetry by teaching writing classes. Ruth holds a master’s degree in film, and her dream is to combine the arts of film and poetry.

RUTH FORMAN

“Me: this day your own square/ in your own life quilt/ so shining/

. ” With these inspiring

Left: At age 12, Ruth loved going to Baha’i events for kids. Right: Ruth (second from right), age 14, at Green Acre Baha’i School in Maine, U.S., where she volunteered during summers

I decided I did want to be a Baha'i. Even though my background as a child was Christian, I very much embraced the Baha’i Faith, its principles. Even as a child, it felt like they fit more my outlook of how life should be and how the world should work together.

whether it’s something difficult or challenging. For me, because I’m Baha’i, I have a sense that we're moving toward a better place as the human race. So I think that always gives my work a sense of hope...

Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2011

22

Photos: Portrait and tai chi by Christine Bennett, festival by Angela Daves Haley [Page 23]g STARS

ni An interview with an ws?

Q. What makes a good poem?

If you can say things in a way that’s very unique, that people aren't used to hearing, that is very truthful... When you speak the truth, people sit up and take notice. And if you use the senses in your work—sight, sound, smells, and taste—it makes the poem come alive in a way that the person reading or hearing it can really experience it, because it’s calling on their senses to participate.

Q. Some artists feel they get inspiration from God.

Do you feel this, and if so, can you tell us about it? Yes, I very much feel like I get my inspiration from God . .. Sometimes, I name God specifically in my work. But other times, I think I want... to exemplify some of the virtues that I feel are so important and beautiful, like truth, like justice, like peace or hope. And I try to make sure my work is infused with that so people can feel that hope or truth or justice.

Q. In this issue of Brilliant Star, we're talking about mysteries. To you, what are life’s greatest mysteries? We're all here for a reason. We all have something to contribute to the world. So part of the mystery of life is kind of figuring that out... And then after we figure that out and do our best, kind of taking each step toward what we think that calling is. I think the beautiful mystery is how all of those pieces fit together.

Q. How did tai chi and karate become important to you? As a writer, I was sitting down too much. I wanted to get up and move. So I stumbled upon a tai chi class, and I realized that I really, really loved it... When I practiced tai chi, it was almost like a moving prayer . Karate . . . has the combination of strength and power and beauty. I think when you do it well, it’s also like a moving form of poetry, for both of them.

Left: Practicing tai chi is an important part of Ruth’s life. She says, “Each movement tells astory...” Below: Ruth presents her children’s book, Young Cornrows Callin Out the Moon, at the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books.

Q. What's your advice for aspiring writers? Read! Because there’s so much out there to inspire . The second thing I would say is to keep...

a little journal, or just a little notebook, and write down thoughts .. . And then just be open to touch the world, and be comfortable writing that down, sharing that with other people in [your] own perspective. Because .. . a really good story teaches us and inspires us, feeds us. And I think when you can do that, it’s really a contribution to somebody’s life.

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

That they realize that they're all very special people and

have something very unique and special to offer to the

world, and to not be afraid to know that about them- selves, to not lose that sense of being somebody special.

To hear Ruth read her book for kids, go to www.nprorg and type 9645327 into the search field

MARCH/APRIL 2011 ¥% Brilliant Star

23 [Page 24]MARCH 2011 ¢ 167/168 Bahai Era

hat do Beauty, Power, and Questions have in common? They’re all names W of months in the Baha'i calendar. Many religions have their own calendars.

The Bahai year consists of 19 months with 19 days each. Four additional days (five in leap years) are added to correspond to the solar year. Each month is named for an attribute of God. The Baha'i New Year, Naw-Ruz, occurs at the start of

the month of Splendor. It’s a joyous occasion, often commemorated with prayers, music, and fellowship. How will your family celebrate?

Sunday Monday TueSday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

~ 5 3 ro) 4

Every 19 days,

oe Ban near the first MONTH OF day of the Women's History Month (U.S-) ALA

Baha’i month. Who is your favorite heroine in history? (LOFTINESS)

International Ash Wednesday LO Women’s Day (UN) (Christianity) Experts are mystified by the purpose => Equality for women Lent begins—a time of Stonehenge, the ancient circle of stones is essential for a of prayer, fasting, and If you could meet God and ask in England. peaceful world. preparation for Easter. any question, what would it be?

18 19

abe

1 3 "® National Wildlife Week (U.S., March Youth Art Month 13-20) (US)

Daylight Saving It's Pi Day (3.14)! Brain Awareness Week (March 14-20) How do you express Time Begins Join the fun on Your brain can send i cg as fast as 268 St. Patrick's oR

(U.S., Canada)*

your creativity?

page 10. miles/hour (431 km/h)!

21 22

CUVEE World Water Day (UN) BAHA 2.5 billion people (SPLENDOR) worldwide lack good

A sanitation facilities. NAW-RUZ Baha'i New Year

28

Did you know? Seahorse fathers, not mothers, carry and give birth to their young.

23

Holi (Hinduism) Festival of Colors

Eaaag Eaaag

Gosmo’s Word Challenge a) To put words in another language

b) To rise above or go beyond “ad c) To ship something by train

13-Some areas do not observe Daylight Saving Time; 26—Leamn more at wwrw.earthhour.org

24 Brilliant Star # MARCH/APRIL 2011 OLE ABMSNY [Page 25]APRIL 2011 ¢ 168 Baha'i Era

ow did dinosaurs become extinct? How many species exist today? How can we Ade, protect Earth from our changing climate and environmental challenges? Even as scientists make amazing new discoveries, we still grapple with mysteries like

these. From the tiniest microbes to massive blue whales, life on Earth offers breathtaking diversity. People around the world work together to expand our knowledge and find » solutions to our most pressing problems. On Earth Day, April 22, more than a billion people s fa)

in 175 countries celebrate our planet, its wonders, and our commitment to protecting it.

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Every 19 days, Baha’i Feast oheldienion My Goal for the Month:

the first April Fool’s Day near the firs! National Poetry Month (U. s. The origin of this day of the “April is a perfect time holiday is still a Baha’i month. To put your favorite words in rhyme! mystery.

Health Day (UN) : BAHA’! Low-cost resources MONTH OF could prevent the , Z JALAL

deaths of millions of kids each year.* (GLORY)

- Global Youth Service 8 3 Fs)

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month (U.S.)

° Ge

Gogmo’s Word Challenge a) Constant eating of fruit

b) Feeling or hunch about something c) Accomplishment of a goal or plan

Day (April 15-17) Its the International Year of Chemistry. (UN) How do you use your True or false? Diamonds and pencil lead are talents to help your made from the same element. community?

ve 19 22 23

urnot

Week (U.S.) Passover Begins FIRST DAY OF Earth Day World Book and Turn off your (Judaism) RIDVAN Check out Zeke's Copyright Day

TV and computer, Honors the Jews’ Commemorates favorite facts about Auniverse of wonders and focus on freedom from Bahalullléh’s arrival in Earth and our is as close as your family time. slavery in Egypt the Garden of Ridvan universe on page 17. local library.

oun

Y Up SD) LEM 29 4 tp — BAHAT NINTH DAY OF Ta p, RIDVAN = 4 Honors Bahé'u'llah’s ESSE 2 Gj | fla Foren JAMAI family joining Him in i” (Christianity) Ifyou could travel in time to the past, what would you explore? (BEAUTY) the Garden of Ridvan | QQ “WW

silane 2-01 SHEMSNY MARCH/APRIL 2011 *% Brilliant Star 25 [Page 26]66 very Baha’i is a pioneer,” E Keith Ransom-Kehler wrote, “a pioneer in a new manner of living, a new outlook on life...” Keith showed a courageous spirit as she traveled the world to share the Baha'i teachings and help Baha'is who were being persecuted. Nannie Keith Bean was born in Kentucky, U.S., in 1876. She went by “Keith,” and her personality was as unconventional as her name. At age 22, she graduated from Vassar College, and she later earned a master’s degree —an extra- ordinary achievement at a time when few women went to college. She married Ralph Ransom in 1901. Sadly, he died of tuberculosis when their daughter, Julia, was one. In 1910, Keith married Jim Kehler. Keith was an open- minded Christian, and she led a Christian fellowship in Chicago for several years. Then in 1921, she became a Baha’i. She later wrote, “the great prophecies of Jesus are fulfilled in the coming of Baha’u'llah.” She began giv- ing talks about the Faith, and became a sought-after speaker.

All Walks of Life Keith faced tragedy again when Jim died of a heart attack in 1923. She grieved deeply, but in time she focused on traveling and

SHINING LAMP

A Baha'i who served humanity with radiance

KEITH RANSOM-KEHLER: Fearless Pioneer

Keith Ransom-Kehler wrote, “Amidst the perplexities . . . and problems that often beset my path . .. my abiding protection is a sense of deep and reverent gratitude . . .”

speaking about the Baha’i Faith.

In 1931, Keith set off for Australia, New Zealand, and several Asian countries. She enjoyed cultural diversity and met with people of all walks of life. In New Zealand, she spent time with the indigenous Maori people, whom she called a “nation of poets and artists.”

Keith made a big impression everywhere she went. She was bold, honest, and passionate in her speech. Wherever she went, the people she visited asked if she could stay longer.

Fighting Forces of Darkness In 1932, Shoghi Effendi, who led the Baha’i Faith at the time, asked Keith to go to Persia (now Iran)

to convince the shah (king) to lift

a ban on Baha’ books. Keith was “thunderstruck” at such a challenge, but she rose to meet it. On a visit to Haifa (in what is now Israel), Shoghi Effendi personally tutored Keith in Islam and the customs of Iran.

In Iran, Keith met with an advisor to the shah, who assured her that the book ban would be lifted immediately. But it was not. She wrote seven long letters to the shah and had many meetings with officials, but nothing changed. To this day, the government of Iran treats Baha’is with prejudice and injustice. Baha’is are denied jobs and higher education, and many have been imprisoned and even killed, just for practicing their faith.

Keith was deeply frustrated at the outcome of her efforts. But she wrote, “Nothing in the world is meaningless, suffering least of all. Sacrifice . . . blooms, I think forever, in the sweet fields of eternity.”

On October 9, 1933, Keith became very ill with smallpox, and she passed away two weeks later. Shoghi Effendi wrote that he was “SORROW STRICKEN” and said she “FOUGHT FORCES OF DARKNESS WITH HIGH DIS- TINCTION, INDOMITABLE WILL, UNSWERVING, EXEMPLARY LOYALTY.” He named her the first American Baha’i martyr and the first female Hand of the Cause of God.*

26

Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2011

A Hand of the Cause of God was a Bah who served the

Baha'i community in significant ways, such as encouraging others in teaching and protecting the Faith. [Page 27]Ne For

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IM PULSAR, ONE OF THE LEAVERS AT THE UPLIFTERS’ HEAVQUARTERS. A WHILE AGO, WE INVITED YOU ON A MISSION TO HELP DESIGN NEW SUPERHERO SUITS FOR THE UPLIFTERS.

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YOUR CREATIONS WERE IMAGINATIVE ANZ INNOVATIVE! THEY REFLECTED LIGHTNING. AN? LUNA’S AWESOME SUPERPOWERS AN? VIRTUES. CHECK OUT THE WINNING DESIGNS!

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157 Place: STEWART

A., age 13, Texas, U.5.

Stewart's uniform designs were creatively invented with a variety of useful features. Lightning's “jester- like design represents pure joyfulness,” and it’s rubber to withstand electricity. Both Lightning and Luna have utility belts with “an arsenal of virtuous items, like the Truth Ray, Prayerful Pulse, and Eraser-Item Eliminator . . . Underneath the shoulder armor are two cans of pure virtue.” Lightning's boots “give him super speed,” and Luna’s “allow her to walk across water.” Lightning's “x-ray goggles enhance his super vision.”

Luna's goggles “allow her to see invisible objects.” —

Natasha's colorful suits show her knowledge of the Uplifters. She said each uniform will “suit the Uplifter’s powers” and make the hero twice as strong. “For example, Luna’s suit supports her when she is invisible, and Lightning's suit is designed to help him with [his] electric powers.” The suits also include “their first initial and their usual symbol.”

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HONORABLE MENTION WINNERS Caleb Mathura, age 10, Wisconsin, U.S. e Esai Malia-Tharps, age 9, Pennsylvania, U.S.

Ava designed creatively patterned uniforms. She says, “The earth in the middle with two hands, white and black,” and the rainbow puzzles “represent world peace.” The suits are “usually black, but can tum rainbow by command.” The Uplifter thinks of a power, “taps one of the puzzles, and uses the power immediately.” |

9 Nathan Rivera, age 11, Texas, U.S. e NABiMm Zari, age 14, North Carolina, U.S. :

MARCH/APRIL 2011 %& Brilliant Star

27 [Page 28]chs

Look for clues throughout the magazine

COSMO'S CORNER

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ACROSS a 1. Rahim says he likes to help people by opening a for the poor. (p. 12) 2. “Meditation is the key for opening the of mysteries." (p. 18) 4. Keith Ransom-Kehler said, “Every Baha'i is a ..."(p. 26)

5. They may give us insight into our feelings or goals. (p. 9) 7. There are 118 of these in Egypt. (p. 29) 8. Dusty says our purpose here is to help others and acquire - (p. 13) 12. Being about the world can make life an exciting adventure. (p. 7)

13. Some are so far away that it takes centuries for their light to reach Earth. (p. 17)

15. Your is on a never-ending journey. (p. 16)

LUICEMEED |

FROM OUR MAILBOX PAGE 2: Birds at far top leftnear title, «© fartop right near quote, on branch at top ao . right, in rock at center right, on branch & | like Lightning and Luna, because | have been at center right, above water at bottom. . _ . . right, in brush at bottom center, in rock at getting Brilliant Star since | was really little, bottom left, on branch at bottom left, on F branch at center lft, in bridge at center and | can go back and find most of the earliest left on rock top len leaves at top comics and it's funny ...| love getting mail, so Center, on wire at top center, on shirt at top center, in leaves at center when Brilliant Star comes | feel good. | always PAGE 6: (top to bottom, left to right)

whale, glacier, bald eagle, squirrel,

love the creativity of the covers, and | some- jellyfish, ralndrop, grass, macaw,

PAGE 10: Pi symbols at top let on wall border, brick, board, balloon, shirt at top center on

times get ideas for stories from the magazine. recived tes 100 poster: at top right on building and banner outside

PAGE 7: 1)open,2)questons,3)cues, 4) window; at centr right on shir, sign, pe, plat;

—Marzi B., age 12, Maryland, US. noes, 5) Look, 6) experiments, 7) observe, at bottom right on sign and backpack; a boom 8) ansners, 9) imagination, 10) give center on plate; al center on sign and shirt

28 Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2011 [Page 29]eMAZEGing

ADVENTURE

STEP BY STEP |

F rom Mexico to Egypt, mysterious stone pyramids Scientists believe workers used wooden sleds to drag

rise out of jungles and deserts. Their history the stones for miles and up ramps. It took about 20 and treasures have fascinated people through the _ years to build the largest pyramid in Egypt.

’ ages. Some were temples with elaborate carvings and These landmarks give us clues about ancient \ religious symbols. The pyramids in Egypt served as royal _ cultures, beliefs, and ways of life. The vision, creativity, ) ) tombs for the pharaoh and his family. and effort used to build them can inspire us. When

In the Sahara Desert thousands of years ago, there you're struggling with something that seems too hard, were no modern tools. Imagine using hand tools to cut think of the pyramid builders. Remember that step by

giant stone blocks weighing as much as five camels! step, you too can do amazing things.

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Find your way to the top of the pyramid using the stairs and ramps. \ \

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THERE ARE 118 PYRAMIDS IN EGYPT. YOU CAN ALSO FIND PYRAMIDS IN GUATEMALA, PERU, SUDAN, AND IRAQ.

[Page 30]“In the meeting place of life be ye a guiding candle;

in the skies of this world be dazzling stars; ; in the gardens of unity be birds of the spirit, singing of inner truths and mysteries.” —‘Abdu'l-Bahé — Z

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Brilliant Star/Volume 43/Issue 1/Text

“In the garden of thy heart plant naught but the rose of love, and from[edit]

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