Brilliant Star/Volume 44/Issue 1/Text

Brilliant Star

A BAHA'I COMPANION FOR YOUNG EXPLORERS MARCH/APRIL 2012

Ree | ccnmonicsting with kindness =

[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 Foad Ghorbani PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Blecker « Ella Cleaver # Brett Dennen ‘Ayana Douglas Tahirin Elliott ¢ Gideon Michael Garcia Keyvan Geula Bahiyyih Amelia Grant # Hartmut Grossmann Dr. Joan Kleypas # Shawn Lazaro Lara Mendel Yvonne Mondragon * Mona Mosavi © Donna Price Gail Radley # Taylor Thurston © Margaret Tuomi

Original illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted. By Lisa Blecker: Painting for p. 10, photos for p. 16 By Foad Ghorbani: At for p. 9 tistorcal photos courtesy of National Bahl Archives, unless noted

Story and activity credits: By Amy Renshaw: 2, 1, 14, 18, 24, 27 By Susan Engle: 9, 12,20, 21, 22, 28 By Annie Reneau: 3, 6, 8, 17, 29 By Lisa Blecker: 16 By Donna Price: 4,5, 7, 10, 11, 18

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 Bahda’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)

Intemational arma: $38 (One yea 88 (Two yea)

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

INTERNET RESOURCES AND INTERNET SAFETY

‘We sometimes provide intemet resouroes 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 for all content in referenced websites. Furthermore, we urge caution and parental quidance ‘when using the Internet. For more information about Internet safety, visit ‘wnw.wiredkids.org/wiredkids_org.html

ISSN 0884-3695

Baha‘u'llah’s Life: Mission of Peace He shared His message with kings and leaders.

Maya's Mysteries Travel to the year 1912, during ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s time.

Riley's Rainforest RU 2 attached 2 technology?

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

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

Nur’s Nook Express youself with your own dragon puppet.

Lightning and Luna: Episode 49 Lost in the Arctic!

Music Café A song to help us understand each other

Stargazer: Hartmut Grossmann He served on the Universal House of Justice.

Calendars What's special about March and April?

Shining Lamp: Martha Root She traveled to share her beliefs, even with a queen.

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

aMAZEing ADVENTURE How is communication like an iceberg?

[Page 1]PRINTED WITH

SOY INK],

FriendSHIP Adventures Navigate the waters of unity and respect.

Zeke & Rhombus: Universal Language Zeke explores languages in his search for peace.

Two Ears, One Mouth Are hearing and listening the same thing?

Chimpanzee Chatter These apes are great!

Are You a Smart Cybercitizen? Do you keep your tech tools in balance?

Path to Oneness What did ‘Abdu’l-Baha say during his travels in 1912?

‘Abdu’l-Baha’s Great Voyage

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of his heroic journeys.

Mild as Milk Keep your cool with calming words.

Speaking with Confidence Change your thoughts from panicked to positive.

Art in Action Discover a world of creative careers.

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

"Y

bs \% When ‘Abdu’l-Baha made his journey across the

Atlantic in 1912, some suggested that he join the first voyage of the Titanic. Later, they were deeply relieved that he chose another ship to reach North America.

For about eight months, ‘Abdu’l- Baha shared the Baha’i teachings with compassion and conviction. He encouraged people to seek truth and work for global unity. His writings urged us to “speak out with great courage” and to “speak with each other with infinite amity and love.”

In this issue, explore tools for building your communication and friendship skills. Follow a timeline of ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s journeys, and discover key topics of his talks. Get tips for effective speaking and listening. Make a dragon puppet for sharing your own stories. Check out creative careers in multi- media. And meet Hartmut Grossmann, who served on the Universal House of Justice, the Baha'i Faith’s international governing body.

You have a unique point of view and original ideas that can change the world. Speak up!

With love from Brilliant Star

[Page 2]/ Ai

\ “A Kindly tongue is the lodestone of the hearts of men. It is the bread of the spirit, it clotheth \ i ( Kt

Pe! weal € | | the words with meaning, it is the fountain of the light of wisdom and understanding.” —Bahdlullidh SET / \ SS er, \ magine boarding a huge sailing ship to discover new _ expeditions, we learned about the rich diversity of our J y; yf q lands. Adventure and mystery await as you brave the __ world, with its many languages, foods, arts, and traditions. AS seas for weeks or months to explore the unknown. Today, modern technology links us to people around —=4

Early explorers sought new ways to exchange goods the globe in just an instant. But basic truths about ty and ideas with other people and cultures. They had only friendship have stayed the same through the ages. Like basic tools for navigation. By the 12th century, sailors in a compass pointing us in the right direction, kindness}

ss China, Europe, and beyond used lodestone, a naturally and respect help us build strong connections—wherever .\ magnetic mineral, to create compasses. Because of their we may wander.

| TE

Curious Journal of Loving Compass Justice Lantern

Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2012 [Page 3]covet Baha’u’llah’s hife: Mission of Peace Timeline _| letters of hight The hife of

o, Giev magine a lone prisoner Baha'u'llah didn’t ask to be Baha u tah [rr to the world’s leaders, released from prison or request any The highlighted urging them to rule justly and personal favors. Instead, He praised area marks the establish peace. Baha'u'llah did positive actions, such as ending time in which this just that in 1867. He wrote from slavery. He encouraged leaders to story takes place. Adrianople (now Edirne, Turkey) unite and reduce their weapons.

and later from the prison-city Outside the prison in ‘Akka Only by collectively acting against of ‘Akka, in what is now Israel. where Bahé'u'llah was held war, He said, could they establish Though Baha'u'llah had done lasting peace and justice. ree mm meTe nothing wrong, He was exiled and imprisoned Baha’u'llah’s son, ‘Abdu’l-Baha, conveyed in Tihrén, Iran because He proclaimed a new faith. the courage and power of his father’s Tae But nothing could stop Baha’u'llah’s actions in a talk delivered in New York in Recognizes the Babas | message of peace and unity. He wrote to 1912. ‘Abdu’l-Baha said of the rulers who anew Messenger of God tulers including Queen Victoria of England, persecuted Baha'u'llah, “Although they were 1852 Napoleon III of France, Pope Pius IX, and Czar determined upon extinguishing the light in Imprisonment in the Alexander II of Russia. He even addressed that most brilliant lantern . . . day by day poe Rit ul Cinta the Persian king, Nasiri’d-Din Shah, and the His splendor became more radiant.” 1853-1863 Turkish leader, Sultan ‘Abdu’l-‘Aziz, who were Today, more than five million Baha'is around mls Bay Omg ca, responsible for His imprisonments and exiles. the globe continue to work toward world unity.

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

863 Apri Declares Divine Mission as Prophet-Founder of the Baha’ Faith

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

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

ABTA VE 3s) Finally free to live in countryside homes

of Mazra‘ih and then Bahji, outside ‘Akka

Baha'u'llah passes away at Bahji.

Art by VectorStudio and Taily

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 MARCH/APRIL 2012 * Brilliant Star [Page 4]ouldn’t it be cool to travel back in time to meet W ‘Abdu’'l-Baha? You can, using the time machine

of your imagination. With books and media, you can go back 100 years to follow ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s journey in North America in 1912. There is even a voice and film recording of ‘Abdu’l-Baha.

But in those days, there were no computers, cell phones, or video games. Airplanes were just getting started. New Mexico and Arizona became the 47th and 48th states, completing the continental U.S.

Travel Through Time

TAKE A TRIP INTO HISTORY!

Earth had not yet experienced a world war, but conflicts leading to World War I were brewing. New York City, where ‘Abdu'l-Baha spent much of his time, was crowded even then. With nearly five million people living there, it was, and still is, the largest city in the U.S. Everyday life was very different. Girls and women usually wore dresses covering their knees—even while playing tennis. Fun things were being made—Oreo cookies were invented that year! Travel back to 1912 by taking the quiz below.

1912 Time Traveler Quiz —

‘1 Only 20 US. states allowed

women to vote.

True ¢ False True ¢ False

(2 A plane had not yet flown non- stop across the Atlantic Ocean. True © False

True ¢ False

‘3 Many states had laws to keep white and black people separated.

True © False

‘4 It was illegal for U.S. kids to have full-time jobs in factories. True ¢ False

What was life like in 1912? Circle True or False to test your knowledge.

5S A lively style of music called hip-hop was popular.

6 Blue jeans were not invented yet.

‘7 Kids were required to go to school in all 48 states.

(8 A Ford Model T car could be purchased for $590. True © False

(9 Women competed in Olympic swimming events for the first time. True ¢ False

10 The RMS Titanic sank tragically on April 15, on its very first voyage (to the U.S. from England). True ¢ False

11 Over half of the Titanic's passengers had basic third-class cabins and were not allowed to mingle with higher classes.

True ¢ False

stein

4 Brilliant Star * MARCH/APRIL 2012

LOE

‘SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

[Page 5]hae < RHOMBVS- fy

eke here, from the planet Zilizag, with my sometimes it can be hard to communicate. On Zilizag, re pet, Rhombus! We're on a mission to see if we all learn the Zilizag Code, along with our native other planets live in peace, like we do on language. No matter where we travel, we can connect

Zilizag. Today, we're visiting Earth for a language festival. | with each other and make friends. The code is used on

On Earth, like on Zilizag, people go all over the planet, the planet Narfblatt, too. sharing their languages and ways of life. It’s cool to If everyone on Earth spoke a common language, do Vy see the amazing diversity. I speak nine languages! Still, you think it would help bring peace to your planet?

NA) =<‘ Ne <M Pe.

s— GA 8S FV 6 of =) wt) SO edi e\\ Wile

There are almost 7,000 During the

on Earth. Over 800 are from Papua New Guinea. announcements are usually made in French,

. . English, and the language of the host country. The five most widely-spoken

English is the main language used on the languages are Chinese, Spanish, English, Arabic, , closely followed and Hindi. Chinese has over a billion speakers.

. by Chinese. The earliest appeared about

Some scientists say people who speak more 5,000 years ago in Egypt and the Middle East. than one language are better at handling

The

uses six official languages: Arabic, Chinese, Different countries have their own versions of English, French, Russian, and Spanish. language used by people who are deaf.

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 26 MARCH/APRIL 2012» Brilliant Star 5 [Page 6]Two Ears, One Mouth

6S: have two ears and one mouth for a reason— W:. we'll listen twice as much as we talk!” Have you heard that saying? Listening might seem like an easy thing to do. But there’s a big difference between hearing someone talk and listening to what they say. When you're listening, you're an active part of the conversation—even when you're not saying a word.

Everyone can learn to be a better listener. And the rewards can be great. When you truly listen, it lets people know that you care about their thoughts and feelings. It can help you see where others are coming from, so you avoid misunderstandings. It can even help create closer relationships with your friends and family. Who would have thought ears could be so powerful?

This family is consulting about where to travel to have fun and do a service project. Find words to complete the tips about being a good listener.

IF WE GO TO THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS, WE

COULD SEE THE PENGUINS AND GIANT TORTOISES AND HELP FIX TRAILS. THAT WOULD BE AWESOME!

Burgdnuaqut

i | | 1. Find a good

2. Limit

by turning off the TV and putting away cell phones,

computers, and games.

3. Face the person you're talking with and give him or

her your full

4.Keepan is finished before forming your own opinion.

Ds, totally on what the person is saying,

rather than thinking of what you’re going to say next.

to talk so you won't feel rushed.

mind. Wait until the speaker

6. Ask questions if you feel like you don’t what you heard.

7. If someone says something that upsets you, take a deep breath and let him or her finish, rather than

8.Be_ ss _ _ _ __ __ and kind. It’s not always easy for people to talk about their feelings.

9. Use sincere body such as positive facial expressions, nodding, and eye contact, to show that you’re interested.

|

—— =

6 Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2012

‘SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 [Page 7]Chimpanzee Chatter

hich animals are most like humans? If excited, puzzled, or enjoying good food. Each chimp

chimpanzees are on your list, you're right! has a unique “pant-hoot” sound which they can us¢

\ They're among the most intelligent creatures, to identify each other. Chimpanzees also use gestures,

and some of their communication is a lot like ours. sometimes putting several together in a sequence. When they play and tickle each other, they laugh, Some are familiar, such as holding a hand out for a much like we do. They “talk” with sounds, facial snack or beckoning someone to come over. Chimps expressions, and gestures. They scream when angry also pat each other on the back and even hug.

~ yp ENE

or scared and make crying sounds when upset. Sadly, chimpanzees are endangered from threats Scientists have identified around 30 different such as loss of habitat, hunting, and disease. These chimp calls, including sounds that mean they're great apes need our help to survive and thrive.

L

this African rainforest.

3 Find 19 chimpanzees in

CALLS LOUD ENOUGH TO BI E HEARD TWO MILES* AWAY.

Ue FA ADULT CHIMPS, CAN BE FIVE TIMES STRONGER THAN HUMANS! [Page 8]——_=

AINt

“Send down... from the clouds of Thy mercy the rains of Thy healing...” —Baha’w'lah

fe Media Overload

ou like 2 txt? Cell phones, the Internet, and other technology are important for communication, education, and entertainment. They’re fun to use, but it’s easy to get too attached to them.

In one survey, over 60% of kids ages 11-18 felt they were addicted to the Internet. More than half said they were addicted to their mobile phones. Another study of college students found that most couldn’t go a full day without cell phones or computers. Some reported feeling sad, lonely, and anxious without access to media.

Texting, in particular, can be easy to overdo. According to one study, American teens send more than 3,000 texts per month on average! Some experts say that intense text use can lead to hand and wrist injuries. The pressure to be in constant contact with friends and respond instantly can also cause anxiety and lack of sleep.

Explore & Soar: Tech-Free Fun

Api cchnology can be a cool way to stay in touch with others,

but you don’t always need gadgets. Try these tech-free ways to nurture

your friendships. Write notes to tell friends three things you appreciate about them.

\ol*) OMG!

While you can’t avoid tech- nology completely, using it in moderation is key. Chat with your parents about how much media is a reasonable amount. That could mean setting a timer when you're using the computer or TV. You could establish “off screen” times each day when you don’t use any electronics. Make it a goal to spend time in nature every day. And look for hobbies and games that don’t need batteries.

Turning off technology can be hard, but it may help you tune in to new ways to have fun and connect with friends and family in person.

Play or invent a fun board game or ball game.

¢ Plan a group hiking trip or another nature adventure.

8 Brilliant Star * MARCH/APRIL 2012

(genopy of ueBtionz |)

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.

&€ What ways can | control

my anger when | am ina

difficult situation? 9? —Mona, age 13

Dear Mona,

What a great question. So many

people find anger a most difficult and challenging experience. Anger can feel like a powerful ocean wave, and if you aren't prepared, it can carry you away. It helps to know the early signs of anger, when you feel frustration or annoyance creeping in. At this stage, the force of the wave is manageable. When you see it coming, take a deep breath, smile, count to nine, and jump as high as you can—as if you were physically jumping over a big wave. Or imagine jumping high in the sky, as if to reach the center of a rainbow. You can also say a prayer, take a walk, listen to happy music, or dance to shake off anger.

Anger isn't always bad, if used the right way. You can use anger waves to do good, such as fighting injustice and

poverty. Then it can be a positive force.

Wishing you joy,

Keyvan Geula Licensed Family Therapist

[Page 9]Are You J Smivt Cybercitizen?

Wh ia. Mia? MI-A-A-A-A!” away from your schoolwork, family, and friends

M “Just a second, Sara. I r=, = who are right in front of you. Too much need to send this text.” Cs) screen time can even be bad for your

“Can't you do that later? We really health—it often keeps kids from

need to finish our science project.” (aq being physically active.

With cell phones, TV, digital Do you know when you're being a

tablets, iPods, and more, there can good cybercitizen with technology? Or

be a lot of screens to juggle. All of is screen time getting out of control?

this technology is cool and helpful, Courtesy, caution, and moderation will

but it can also be a distraction. It may help you handle the juggling act—and

be so absorbing that it pulls your attention keep your world of tech tools in balance.

Take this quiz to see how wise you are about managing media and technology.

9 When I use the Internet to research reports for school, I put the information in my own words instead of copying it. Often =3 * Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1

1 Iam kind and honest when I text and e-mail. I remember not to write anything that I wouldn't say in person. Often = 3 * Sometimes = 2 + Rarely=1

2 If 1 see cyberbullying online or 8 When I’m with a friend, I pay 10 I follow my family’s rules about in text messages, I tell an adult. attention to him or her instead when it’s okay to use computers Often =3 + Sometimes = 2 Rarely =1 of texting someone else. and cell phones and down- Often = 3 * Sometimes =2 ¢ Rarely=1 load things from the Internet.

Often =3 * Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1

6 If I’m angry with someone, I

give myself time to cool off 11 I balance screen time with before I text, e-mail, or call. other activities, such as Often =3 * Sometimes =2 ¢ Rarely =1 playing outside. 3 When someone says, “It’s true! Often =3 * Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1 I saw it on the Internet,” I 7 Iturn my cell phone off when research the truth myself. Tm in class or doing homework. Often = 3 * Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1 Often = 3 * Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1 4 Idon’t respond to e-mails, 8 I keep personal information texts, or instant messages private—including my address, from people I don’t know. phone number, and passwords. Often =3 * Sometimes = 2 + Rarely =1 Often = 3 * Sometimes = 2 + Rarely=1 { My Score } 33-26 points: Congratulations! 25-18 points: You've made a good 17-11 points: Increase your You're mindful about using technology start in using technology responsibly. mindfulness about media. Circle and the media. Keep up the good work. What new skills can you add? a few tips to try out.

MARCH/APRIL 2012 % Brilliant Star 9 [Page 10]+e ~“Path to Oneness: =

fe 7 ” i e} , Fo 5) a “These meetings will be mentioned in the future and their Cass ae Me <4 - TZ results will be everlasting in all the divine worlds.” —‘Abdu'l-Bahé ome Sc) ‘<p (o fs Ce ee = ee Y Ge a ae ) “Stier 6 —~ an you imagine visiting over 40 cities in eight ‘Abdu’l-Baha was frequently busy from early ~~ ee ‘ months, in the days before airline travel? That's morning until late at night, giving two or three public 7 what ‘Abdu’l-Baha did when he visited North talks a day. At a time when women fought for the right America in 1912. Crossing the U.S. by train, he shared to vote and racism was commonplace, he championed

the Baha'i teachings. On one trip, his companion wrote, equality. He spoke with kindness and love, and he KG “For a long period of time the passengers gathered around challenged people to seek the truth. In churches and His seat, some standing and some sitting, listening to His | synagogues, he promoted respect for diverse faiths. Wj sweet voice and sublime words . . . as the train passed Across thousands of miles, ‘Abdu’l-Baha urged people

through the mountains, valleys, plains and rivers.” on a path toward establishing the oneness of humanity.

—— ‘Abdu’l-Baha gave inspiring talks during his journeys to share the Baha’i Faith. A Fill in the blanks to discover the topics.

WE’RE GOING TO HEAR “NBDU’L-BAHA SPEAK IN a NEW YORK AND BOSTON! Se

10 Brilliant Star ye MARCH/APRIL 2012 SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 [Page 11]OUR CONNECTIONS )

Do you ever try talking to plants to help them grow? Did you know that plants communicate with each other? Research shows that some plants send out chemical distress signals when attacked. Other plants pick up the messages and increase their own defenses. Another study found that some plants recognize those of the same family and share their resources. Planting cooperative crops together may lead to better harvests.

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

"

Switch to “off.”

PROTECTING OUR PLANET .

EXPioRE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AnD ITs CREATURES

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

WOW, REALLY?

Ocean corals may look like rocks or plants, but they ® are actually animals, related to jellyfish.

For Earth Hour on March 31, millions turn off their lights at 8:30 p.m. Ask your family to find more times / to unplug, save energy, and have fun together.

Dr. Joan Kleypas is passionate about saving coral reefs from devastation by climate change. A marine ecologist/geologist at the National Center for Atmosphere Research in Colorado, U.S., she won a 2011 Heinz Award for her ; Z innovative research and dedication. She says, “If

we lose coral reefs we're really losing something

that nature took millions of years to produce...” a.

-

Found on the Galapagos Islands and in other

At this famous floating market, you can buy food and souvenirs. The canal, once a major means of transportation and trade, is near Bangkok, this Asian country’s largest city. Unscramble the letters to find the country:

ILADNATH

Pacific areas, parents in this species use their webbed blue feet to keep their eggs warm. They can dive for fish from 80 feet (24.4 m) in the air. Fill in the blanks to find their name:

LUE- OOTED 00 IES

by Jorge Saloedo, coral by Pawe Boréwa, Dr. Kleypas photo by University spheria Research, floating market by Juiah Masin, birds by avarman GE 28

MARCH/APRIL 2012 %& 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: 11

| live in: Texas, U.S. «x

x

Hobbies or sports: Letterboxing, hiking, whittling, scuba diving

| want to be: An engineer

Favorite Baha'i activities: Devotions

Favorite animal or pet: My pet cat, Maizie

Place I'd love to visit: The Philippines

Favorite way to keep in touch with friends

We recently moved to Texas from Wisconsin, and e-mail helps me keep in touch with my friends.

If you could make a movie about what's most important to you, what would it be? Having a brother or a sister with cancer. People don’t understand how difficult it is... and my movie would help...

When you're upset or worried, how do you express it? Ispend time alone in my room. I also talk to my parents about it.

Do you get nervous about speaking in public?

Ido... It’s just overwhelming. To cope, Irub my hands together and just try to do the best job that I can.

Age: 14 I live in: Ilinois, U.S

| want to: Ww

Start... an orphanage near the Baha’i Temple in Wilmette [and] the other Baha’i Temples in the world!

Best quality or virtue: Compassion

Something | like about me that makes me unique:

My love for being and working with children, and my pink birthmark on my forehead

| like to help people by: Giving them advice, helping them look onto the positive side, making them laugh, and telling them to follow their gut

What makes a good listener? Trustworthiness, patience, compassion, helpfulness,

and being able to relate...

Age: 11

llive in: Saskatchewan, Canada sy

| want to be: Environmentalist

Something | like about me that makes me unique:

I really care about

the environment. y Hobbies or sports:

I’m in three dances, I’m a sprinter... I love to draw.

What do you do when someone is gossiping or backbiting?

I defend the person,

or I change the subject.

When you're upset or worried, how do you express it?

I try to act positive, and

I tell myself that things will get better. I talk to my mom and my

closest friends...

Do you get nervous about speaking in public? Sometimes, because it is scary to talk in front of complete strangers, but Itry telling myself that everything will be okay.

Place I'd love to visit: Afghanistan, soI could help people...

What makes a good listener? Someone that looks at the person and reacts to what the person is saying...

What do you do when someone is gossiping or backbiting?

Change the subject and tell that person... Ithink it’s mean to backbite.

When you're upset or worried, how do you express it?

Ilet [it] sit for a day. Italk to whoever made me upset ... Sometimes we talk about it later, and we work things out.

Do you get nervous about speaking in public?

I get afraid that I might mess up. To cope, I just say what Ihave to as confi- dentand loud asIcan...

12

Brilliant Star 4 MARCH/APRIL 2012 [Page 13]“God has crowned you with honor and in your hearts has He set a radiant star; verily the light thereof shall brighten

Ifyou could make a movie about what's most important to you, what would it be?

Age: 12 | live in: Maryland, U.S.

| want to be: It would be about the whole world!” Orthodontist the treatment of

Best quality or virtue: 4 the Baha’is in Iran.

Patience When you're upset or worried,

Something | like about me that makes me unique: Iam easy to get along with and a hard worker.

Hobbies or sports: Baseball, football, hockey, fishing

Favorite Baha’/ activities: Junior youth summits Favorite animal or pet: Rhino and zebra

| like to help people by: Doing the chores for older people if they need help

in touch with friends: a E-mail, because I

can send pictures also.

Favorite way to keep

Age: 7

I live in: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

| want to be: *¥ Ateacher

Something | like about me that makes me unique:

My special name that many tell me they love...

Favorite animal or pet: Horses and Bengal tigers

| like to help people by: Cheering people up with humor

When you're upset or worried, how do you express it? Igotoa quiet spot and calm. myself down. I also talk with my mom and dad...

Favorite way to keep in touch with friends Skype, because I

get to see my friends.

how do you express it? Ijust think positive or talk to my parents.

Do you get nervous about speaking in public?

I don’t get nervous, because I usually know everyone, and they are friends.

If you could make a movie about what's most important to you, what would it be? The teachings of

Baha’u llah—for example, telling the truth

Do you get nervous about speaking in public?

Ido not get nervous when Ican just speak from my heart, like when I told

my classmates about Ayyam-i-Ha* ... Ido get nervous when I have lines to say, like...ina play. Practicing my lines makes me less nervous.

February 26-March 1, days of hospitality, charity,

gift giving, and preparing for the Baha’ Fast

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

x2

Something | like about me that makes me unique: Ican make friends easily.

| want to be: An artist

Hobbies or sports:

Art; Tae Kwon Do; playing soccer with my best friend, Linsey

Favorite Baha'i activities: Neighborhood children’s classes and Great Plains Baha'i Summer School

Favorite animal or pet:

An elephant, and my favorite pets are my dogs, Willis and Tawnny.

Place I'd love to visit: Haifa, Israel. My family is trying to go there for pilgrimage.

| like to help people by: Helping a girl from Burma, whois in my class, with her schoolwork

If you could make a movie about what's most important to you, what would it be? Friends and family

What do you do when someone is gossiping or backbiting?

lignore them and don’t talk with them.

When you're upset or worried, how do you express it? Italk tomy mom

and dad.

Do you get nervous about speaking in public? Alittle. 1am only nervous before, but once I start speaking, I’m not nervous.

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

or Brilliant Star, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201.

Include your name, age, mailing and e-mail addresses, and phone number. Mention “Radiant Star” in the e-mail subject line or in your message.

2. When it’s your turn 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. 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).

MARCH/APRIL 2012 *&

”

13

Brilliant Star [Page 14]‘Abdu'l-Baha was finally free! After nearly a lifetime of exile and imprisonment for his faith, the eldest son of Baha'u'llah was released in 1908. In 1911, despite poor health at age 67, he

embarked on an epic series of journeys to share the Baha’i

message of justice and unity.

Over three years, he transformed the hearts of people in nine countries on three continents.

After about a year in Egypt, ‘Abdu'l-Baha went to Europe on the SS Corsica. f

Visited Paris, site of the first Bahai community in Europe. Photographs were made of

him, and they were given as gifts throughout his travels.

Shared the Baha’i teachings

sin London and Bristol. In his last talk, he said, “I... have met in this London of the West with extreme kindness, regard and love, and I am deeply thankful and happy.” Departed for the U.S. on the SS Cedric (above), arriving in New York on April 11. Some had urged him to sail on the

Titanic, which tragically sank on April 15.

In New York City, ‘Abdu’l- Baha said, “I find a strong movement for universal peace emanating from America.” In his 140 published talks in North America, “peace” appears over 200 times!

Spoke about race unity at Howard University in Washington, D.C. He challenged racism by inviting Louis Gregory, an African American Bahai, to an important luncheon. Then, at the home of Alexander Graham Bell (left), he impressed scientists with his wisdom.

Dedicated the cornerstone for the Baha'i Temple in Illinois. He invited diverse people to dig the earth around the stone, then declared, “The Temple is

already built.”

Gave several talks at

Green Acre Baha’ School in Maine, which he said would one day be the site of a Baha'i university and another Baha’i Temple.

Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2012 [Page 15]On the 100th anniversary of ‘Abdu'l-Baha’s heroic travels, his initiative stands as a tribute to the power of sacrifice and devotion. He gave hundreds of talks in universities, churches, synagogues, halls, and homes. He met with scholars, officials, journalists,

clerics, activists, and families. Today, over five million Baha'is around the world draw inspiration from his courageous example as they work to build global peace.

During a third visit to Paris, ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s health was poor, but he met with many Baha’‘is and dignitaries. When he received flowers for his birthday on May 23, he urged Baha'is to instead celebrate the Declaration of the Bab, which occurred on the same day. The Bab was Baha’u'llah’s forerunner.

Visited Montreal, the first Canadian Baha’ community. The home of May and William Sutherland Maxwell (above), where

he stayed, is a

Baha’ shrine. v Their daughter

(right) later

married ‘Abdu'l- Baha’s grandson, Shoghi Effendi

(right).

Departing from New York on the SS Celtic, ‘Abdu’l-Baha said, “Exert yourselves with heart and soul so that, perchance, through your efforts the light of universal peace may shine...”

Returned to Haifa, Israel, bringing his historic journeys to a close.

wh be

Returned to Paris, where many Baha’is from the East and Iranian nobles came to meet him.

or

(* A

Returning to England, he spoke 5 at a homeless shelter on Christmas

Sailed from Marseilles,

Spoke at Stanford University in California. Later, a full issue of The Palo Altan newspaper was devoted to him.

and paid for food and lodging for 500. He spent several days in Scotland at the home of Jane Whyte, probably the first native Scot to become a Baha’.

Traveled to Germany, Hungary, and Austria. His visitors included Baroness Bertha von Suttner, the first woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize.

France, to Egypt on

the SS Himalaya. In Ramleh, near Alexandria, he often walked in

the rose garden as he dictated letters.

Photos: Baha’ International Community, U.S. National Baha Archives, Montreal by Dan Jones

Atelements by Vilmos Varga, AKaser, so

MARCH/APRIL 2012 * Brilliant Star

15 [Page 16]Powerful Puppets

id you know that the art of puppetry is more shy, it can be fun to share through puppetry. Puppets inspire than 4,000 years old? Puppets appeared in audiences with empathy, joy, and wonder. They can even ancient cultures, including India, Egypt, Greece, — move us to take action for important causes. and China. Today, people celebrate the Chinese New Puppetry takes practice. Rehearse in front of the Year* with a giant, dancing dragon puppet representing mirror. Use your puppet’s body to show emotions. It can good luck and prosperity. shake if it’s scared and jump or wag its tail if it's happy. With expressive voices and actions, puppets capture You can create puppets from fabric, socks, and even your imagination and bring stories to life. They're also a items in your recycling bin. Check out this activity and

great way to communicate feelings and ideas. If you're express yourself with puppetry! Z0-0-DR!

Cardboard egg carton ¢ pencil © cardboard ¢ scissors ¢ stapler packing tape ¢ 18" x 18" (45.7 x 45.7 cm) colorful fabric

tacky glue ¢ 10" (25.4 cm) wooden skewer ¢ rubber band poster or acrylic paint ¢ paintbrush ¢ cup of water © card stock

1 Cut apart lid, bottom, 2 Trace around carton 4 For eyes, cut two-cup and latch flap of egg lid twice and cut 3 Glue cardboard onto section from carton. Staple carton. Cut lid in half. out to create base each half of lid. to edge of lid and cover and roof of mouth. staples with tape. Paint SeeERe ~ a.) eyes and face. Let dry.

— = ee QO

5 Place top mouth half

on bottom half. Tape 6 Glue middle of fabric’s edge around 7 Use card stock for scales, tail, mouth, and flat edges of boards to eyes and jaws. Make sure mouth can facial features. Hold and move skewer to make a hinge. Open jaw open wide. Secure tail end with rubber wag tail. Use your other hand to operate and reinforce hinge band. Carefully cut pointed tip off of mouth. Now your dragon is ready to roar! with more tape. skewer and insert in rubber band.

1

s

ens *Chinese New Year in January 2012 16 Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2012 launched the Year of the Dragon. [Page 17]Mild as Milk

“One word may be likened unto fire, another unto light, and the influence which both exert is manifest in the world.

Therefore an enlightened man of wisdom should primarily speak with words as mild as milk...” —Bahda‘u'llah

id you know that if you eat something too frustrated” or “Give me a minute to calm down” can D spicy, a glass of milk can help cool your help. Try going for a walk to blow off steam. You can

tongue? A protein in milk binds to the spicy express yourself in a journal or an art project. When oil and washes it away. Similarly, when a conversation _a friend or family member is angry, you can help by gets heated, using mild words can calm things down offering a listening ear or some quiet space. and keep anger from burning out of control. What you say and how you say it can help you

Everyone gets angry sometimes. But if you stay calm. You might help others tame their tempers,

lose your cool, it’s easy to say or do things that too. With words “as mild as milk,” we can avoid you later regret. When you feel upset, saying “I feel getting burned.

These kids are having some heated conversations. Unscramble the ords in purple and find the kids who are keeping their cool.

Sa Rane 7 G . 1 ‘ ) I CAN SEE YOU’RE REALLY THANKS, I JUST YOUR CLUTZy! = H} ANGRY. 70 YOU WANT TO CLAMC) 5 NEED SOME FAULT! Zo\---- DOWN AND TALK LATER? - —_]| TIME TO COLOC) Q Z/, [ \ OFF.

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LETS HANG QUT LOST ANOTHER H—= — AFTER SCHOOL. TOO. BUT WE’VE WORKED

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YOU LOST My IPOD! (| HOW COULP YOU?

IMCRYSRO) — : IT WAS AN ACCIDENT. I PROMISE I'LL REPLACE IT. [ ay,

_———

MARCH/APRIL 2012 * Brilliant Star

17 [Page 18]Cs ose Ol gh Fee \ LIGHT NING AND LUNA 38 EE cia CATASTROFP! HE

FAT THE UPLIFTERS’ ARCTIC OUTPOST... f — | LIGHTNING, r AR LUNA, WELCOME! ——=——— canasqeearaiiea

ENTRANCE z UNIFORMS. |} THE STATUS OF ~~ OUR SITUATION? gas TT WAS 8

% tS

SOME KIND. MUST BE AN ERASER— BUT WE VON’T KNOW

THIS MELTING <= “crac PATER E\ | WALT SeE.A COUL? CAUSE | T TL ease SEA | | TIS AREA WHY WOULD SOMEONE WANT SHIMMERING . -. CASTLE. AHUGE LEVELS, CHANGE | | FOR CLUES. TO DESTROY SUCH BEAUTY? OH, REALLY, PRINCE CHARMING? GLOBAL CRISIS. THE CLIMATE, AND | | LIGHTNING’S |} 1) aND ENDANGER THE PLANET! | = = DESTROY HABITATS! | | SUPER VISION QUICKT SNEAK US UP J] “1 } WiLL HELP. TLEUESS THEY'RE CALLED || I BEHIND THOSE CLIFFS. AL ERASERS FOR A REASON. Ok,

~| OK!

— =z WE’VE BEEN HIT WITH AN ELECTROMAGNETIC,

WEAPON. I FELT IT!

MEANWHILE, IN FURY’S LAIR ay Eman PREPARE THE SATELLITES TO AERO. BROAPCAST MY DEMANDS! PHASER TO

KNOCK THEIR fF FURY, LOOK AT THIS. TV'S MN UPLIETER Por, | LPONER OUT! |

FALCON! CAN YOU HEAR ME? My U-PAD LOST CONNECTION!

18 Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2012 [Page 19]WE HAVE TO LAN? ON THE ICE! WE’? FREEZE IN THE OCEAN!

wee

LIGHTNING!

LJ ARE YOU OK? YEAH, HOW ABOUT YOU?

IT’S TOO FAR TO FLY BACK. AN? WITHOUT THE PO? OR U-PADS, WE DON’T KNOW

WHERE WE ARE.

QUICK! GET OUR IT’S GOING TO SUITS INTO COLD GET DARK SOON. MOVE. THE THERMAL WE SHOULD FIND SYSTEM STILL WORKS. SHELTER.

LOOK, AN ICE CASTLE! SO you WERE RIGHT, PRINCE CHARMING!

GET THEIR POP. WE oS CAN HACK THEIR: AND THE

4 LI "THE BEAM THAT eT en TTT US CAME COMMUNICATION. | |uPLIETERS? ¥ FROM THERE. =

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TES GET CLOSER AND }5 | [i CAPTURE THEM! CHECK IT OUT. WE'LL |: i NEED TO STAY LOW.

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PULSAR, FALCON LOST CONTACT

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3 WHAT DOES FURY HAVE AGAINST PULSAR? t

AN UNIZENTIFIED WITH LIGHTNING AND LUNA. SHE | / = THINKS THEIR POP WENT ZOWN! OHNO! SATELLITE SIENA

IAM FURY. BS YOU CAN SEE, FIRST, PULSAR, PUPPET EARTH’S CLIMATE IS IN | OF THE UPLIFTERS — YOU

MY HANDS. I CAN STOP ITS WILL SURRENDER 10 VOOM—BUT IT WILL COST You! ME IMMEDIATELY!

MARCH/APRIL 2012 % Brilliant Star 19 [Page 20]THE MUSIC CAFE WAS BUSTLING WITH PEOPLE, AN? I WAS FEELING STRESSED TODAY.

MUSIC CAFE

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

AFRIEND SAW ME AN? SAID, “HEY, YOU LOOK SO BUSY. HOW CAN I HELP?” GUESS WHAT? L FELT BETTER RIGHT AWAY. SO TO THANK HER, I SANG...

Music by Brett Dennen Lyrics by Brett Dennen and Lara Mendel

Chorus G Em7

Am G

I don’t know what it’s like

to ian you and

6 Em7

Oe: Sas qs

and em-pa-thize. (Emphasize?) No_ nono.

world —— Put my-self in your shoes

Se

I don’t know what you have to go through but

=

I can try to see the

G Em7

em-pa-thize not

Em7 Cc G c Am

Gp ere ee ere = f=== =e)

em-pha size

but em-pa-thize. (Entropy?) No_ nono.

em-pa-thy not en-tro-py but em-pa-thy.

C Verse

G cD Cc Am G 2

1B. ee

—— =: Lin in’ "bout em-pa- thy.

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pS EEE errer

1. Eve-rysto-ry has morethan one side.

a

It’s not a-bout what's

wrong or_. right.

30

Who's to judge what's good or bad?_What makes me laugh might make you mad.

Let’s try to

G

G D Cc ve = t= 2 $2 ee ee F — i =|

make a deal We'll listen to each o-ther and see how the o-ther feels. With em pa- thy we can

4 G A D D To Chorus n : F = =

— ==: + =: SSS SSS = q

a ——— |

un - der- stand.

VERSE 2

Everybody’s got a different point of view.

How would | feel if | were you?

Some people think this, some people think that. l’'m telling you empathy is where it’s at.

We can solve our problems by talking and listening.

We can solve our _prob-lems and

make. a - mends,__

Instead of judging we can look at things differently.

Write to Congress and get them to see.

Instead of fighting we can try to use empathy not entropy, but empathy. (To Chorus)

20 Brilliant Star * MARCH/APRIL 2012

‘© 2003 The Mosaic Project For other songs about peace and diversity, visit www.mosaicproject.org [Page 21]E“ Day is around the comer, and your head is spinning like our planet. You have to give a speech in front of your whole school about protecting Earth! Yikes! When you think of your speech, your stomach churns and you start to sweat with anxiety. What will you do? A good way to deal with fear is to choose a topic you're passionate about. What concerns or interests excite you most? Think of an action you want your audience to take, such as saving endangered animals or planting trees.

When your speech reflects your true self, you'll feel more natural. You'll connect more with your listeners.

As you practice, think positively. Instead of focusing on what could go wrong, imagine giving a great speech, feeling confident and relaxed. Picture yourself being well prepared and calmly handling any challenge.

Public speaking is a skill that anyone can develop. With practice, you can speak up—and help change the world, one idea at a time.

Ti -ID

ZA) (NN

Practice positive thinking by matching each negative thought with the positive thought that could replace it.

’ ¥ wh WL 2) } ay / yy . i) NS LI \)\ KAYA i Vz AN LWISH T WOULD HAVE PLANNED \\ A\S I. CAN’T WAIT TO HEAR S AHEAD AND PRACTICED MORE. ~ j | QUESTIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE. Ly | helene Z ! WHAT IF L FREEZE UP AND FORGET EVEN PROFESSIONALS GET NERVOUS. : | j | EVERYTHING I WANT TO SAY? 1 | T/LL TAKE DEEP BREATHS TO RELAX. We J \ L TL JUST KNOW MY VOICE WILL L REMEMBER ALL THE BIG POINTS T WANT i CRACK WHEN I’M TALKING. TO MAKE. IF I NEED TO, I’LL IMPROVISE.

NS

| -~ EARTH IS REALLY IMPORTANT! J) =

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1) i) XN IMNOT GOING TO BE AS GOO?

OR AS FUNNY AS THE LAST KIP..

WHAT IF SOMEONE ASKS A

WHY AM I SPEAKING? I DON’T HAVE ANYTHING IMPORTANT TO SAY.

L FEEL SO NERVOUS! I’M SURE EVERYONE SEES IT. yn )

OTL EBRY

INS A OUESTION T CAN'T ANSWER?, .

AFTER ALL MY PRACTICE AND PLANNING, I’M READY TO GO! il ! |

T’LL70 MY BEST AND BE MYSELF. T.WON’T COMPARE MYSELF TO OTHERS.

THE MUSIC TEACHER SHOWED? ME SOME GOO? WAYS TO WARM UP MY VOICE BEFORE I SPEAK.

WHAT I HAVE TO SAY ABOUT SAVING

—— =

a\N

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

MARCH/APRIL 2012 * Brilliant Star

21 [Page 22]ad jae) N < O a <= 7)

22

Hartmut Grossmann

Q: What's your favorite childhood memory?

It was very much influenced . . . [by] the war . . . It was partly positive in this sense—that it

A:

strengthened ... my belief in the Faith. On the other hand... it was not so easy, because the Baha'i Faith was forbidden during that time... There was a law that not more than two Baha'is were allowed to meet . . . My mother . .. had difficulty, because she went with me (I was five years old)... to see another Baha'i. So my mother was taken in by the Gestapo... the police under Hitler... and taken to court and punished .. . On the other hand... it was a special opportunity, because my father was so well known [from] the National Assembly, and so people came to our home. So | got to know people who were quite famous in the Faith...

A a child during World War II, Hartmut Grossmann faced persecution and poverty in Germany. The Nazi government oppressed and killed people of many faiths—including Jews, Christians, and Baha'is. Even after the war, when Hartmut was in his teens, he went with his mother on daylong walks to trade their belongings for food.

Hartmut earned a master's degree in education from Heidelberg University. In 1969, he moved to Finland to teach German. He served the Baha'i Faith on the national governing bodies of Germany and Finland. He then became a Counselor, educating European Baha'is. In 1988, he moved to Haifa, Israel, to help Baha'is globally as part of the International Teaching Center. He was later elected to the Universal House of Justice, the Faith's international governing body, for five years. In 2008, he retired to Finland with his wife, Ursula.

Left: Hartmut, about seven years old, during World War Il. Right: Hartmut (left) and his father, Hermann (middle). The family offered a home to their friend Lina Benke (right) when she lost hers in the war.

Q: What did you learn about public speaking from your father?

A: The way to address people. He said never be too sentimental. Don't

Q: Your father was named a Hand of the Cause of God." What was it like to have a father who was such a leader of the Faith?

A: | realized very soon that he was very special... that he was a great orator .. . After the talks,

appeal too much . .. to feelings, because feelings come and go. But appeal in a way . .. which is intellec- tual... The teachings of Baha'u'llah are very logical, especially to us in the West. But on the other hand, remem-

he'd analyze how he did it. It was extremely useful for me. | remember one day when he spoke, ber that the span of attention which we have is relatively short. So | talk to people and explain to them whatever

and they had given him... . praise and respect, that he told me... “Look. Remember one thing in the Faith. The higher you get, the deeper you can fall." So things like this were very useful for me.

the subject is, but always mixed with stories, with something that makes it easier for them to follow...

Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2012

AHand of the Cause of God served the Baha'i community in

significant ways, including encouraging others in teaching and protecting the Faith. [Page 23]Questions and Answers with an

Inspirational Baha

ll

The members of the Universal House of Justice, the international governing body of the Baha'i Faith, during 2005. Hartmut Grossmann is seated second from the left.

Q: What's your advice for kids who are anxious about public speaking? A: There is a little story about ‘Abdu'l-Baha when his father was in the Siyah-Chal [the Black Pit], you know? 1851. And ‘Abdu'l-Baha was then seven years old .. . [his] mother, Navvab, she said to ‘Abdu'l-Baha each day to go [there] .. . But outside, each morning . . . there were bullies waiting for him ... And they always threw stones at him. And ‘Abdu'l-Baha ... ran each day... And one day... he went up to the biggest bully and looked him straight into the eye... even though he was much weaker . . . So the bully ran for his life... When we... have a big task like talking to

the public, facing a situation where we have to face a human who is angry with us or against us, or whatever it is that causes us anxiety, we Hartmut and Ursula Grossmann’s five

should look into their eyes... This is how we ... overcome our fear... children live around the world. Their daughter Barbara and her family, from @ Canada, visited Louhelen Baha’! School Q: How about advice for kids who are nervous about sharing the Baha'i Faith? —_in Michigan, in 2011

A: Baha'u'llah says ... we should teach them with the example of martyrs.

You know, in Iran, it was especially the last few years, our kids in Q: How did you discover that you

primary school, when they started school at the age of six... each wanted to study languages?

morning, they had to stand in front of the class and had to say, “I'm A: This was very easy, because it

a Baha'i.” And then the other kids were supposed to come in and say, was a suggestion by Shoghi

“Oh, yes, the Baha'is are bad people.” . .. Our Baha'i kids, they were Effendi that | should study German,

proud to stand up in front of the class . .. The other kids who were told because this is my mother

to say something negative about these other kids, they said, “How can tongue, and it would be helpful

we? This boy or girl, they are our friends. We know they are good.”.. . in teaching; and English because So this is an example of how they can learn what it is to be it was the language of the Faith

audacious and also to be proud of the Faith. and he translated into English.

Q: What would you like to say to Brilliant Star's readers?

A: | remember that the Universal House of Justice said... our young people should know that we rely on them. They are our driving force, because . .. they are like the fresh water that comes down the mountain and drives the wheel of the mill .. . to get something done. Without this fresh water constantly driving the wheel of the Faith, we cannot make progress.

Photos: Top left portrait and family by David Smith 11s Universal House of Justice by Baha'i International Community MARCH/APRIL 2012 *% Brilliant Star

[Page 24]MARCH 2012 ¢ 168/169 Baha’i Era

66 hen the season of spring appears . . . the whole world is rejuvenated and finds new life,” said ‘Abdu1-Baha, speaking in New York in 1912. He also said, “The appearances of the Manifestations of God are the divine springtime.” In the Baha’i calendar, spring also brings the new year. The holy day of Naw-Ruz on March 21 is welcomed with festive gatherings that can include music and other arts, delicious food, and lots of fun. Naw-Riz, which means “new day” in Persian, has been celebrated

in Iran since ancient times. Enjoy this season of new beginnings!

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday [ise enaae | THE BEST SEASON

Every 19 FOR A TRAMPOLINE? 1

days, Baha’i S Oo ) Feast is held a = on or near the Prey a “4s first day of the a Baha’i month. Sead

6 u 8

World Education Games (March 6-8)

Kids around the world compete online in spelling, math, and science.

Holi (Hinduism)

International Women’s Day (UN)

14 15

It’s Pi Day (3.14)! A Chinese man recited

Youth Art Month (U.! 5 ) Create Earth- friendly art using your recyclables.

"sg

Daylight Saving

Time Begins BS over 67,000 digits of = _

(U.S., Canada)* Brain | Awareness Week (March 12-18) pi in 2005 —a world Travel stimulates your brain. record!

18

21

BAHA'I MONTH

OF BAHA (SPLEN

22

World Water Day (UN)

National Wildlife Week

(U.S., March 19-25) Spring Equinox

When honeybees find Spring starts About 900 million nectar, their dance guides in the Northern people lack safe, other bees to the food. Hemisphere. clean drinking water.

28

ELOQUENT MEANS

Gogmo’s Word Challenge Did you know?

a) Wildly happy “Goodbye” isa b) Effective or fluent in language shortened form of c) A prehistoric elephant “God be with ye.”

Friday Saturday 3 “Racecar” is a BA palindrome.

It reads the same backward and forward. Can you think of others?

9 10

My Goal for the Month:

MONTH OF ‘ALA’ (LOFTINESS)

16

Breakfast + lunch = brunch

A blended word is a portmanteau.

Can you think of one?

23

World Meteorological Day (UN) 2000-2009 was Earth's warmest decade on record.

7

St. Patrick's Day

Earth Hour ‘Switch off your lights at 8:30 p.m. to show support for our planet."

41-Some areas do not observe Daylight Saving Time; 31-See www.earthhour.org

24

Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2012

9-S2 ‘YIMSNY [Page 25]APRIL 2072 ¢ 169 Baha'i Era

exceeding gladness .. .” From April 21-May 2, Baha’is honor Baha’u'llah’s declaration that He was a Messenger of God. In 1863, He shared His message with a small group of companions in the Garden of Ridvan (or “Paradise”) outside Baghdad, Traq. Every day, gardeners picked roses and piled them so high that people couldn't see over them as they drank tea in Bahd‘ulah’s tent. He sent the roses as gifts to His friends. Today, Baha‘is around the world celebrate Ridvan with prayers, parties, and fellowship.

D:: Ridvan, the “King of Festivals,” Baha’ullah urged us to “Rejoice with

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 2 7

Passover National Poetry (Judaism) Month (U.S.) April Fool's Day Can you do World Health Day Your own haiku? Did you know? (UN)

Elephants entwine their trunks when greeting each other.

12 a 14

From Cosmo’s Bookshelf Songkran

LOL, BY HUGH CRACKMEUP ( (Thai New Year,

8 9 10

Easter ae BAHA’i

(Christianity) MONTH OF aed Language Lessons, by Olive Toolern | fol rn ae . ival with water 3 sé JALAL to Animals Cool Consulting, by Frank Lee play linked to tr *« (GLORY) Month (U2) Express Yourself, by Don B. Shy Buddhism

21

@ FIRST DAY OF RIDVAN Global Youth Commemorates

Think of a sentence with every alphabet letter, like this one: Service Day Bahalulllah’s arrival in The quick brown fox jumps over a lazy dog. (April 20-22) the Garden of Ridvan

7

15

My Goal for the Month:

20

2 2 23 Every 19 27 28

World Book and days, Baha’i woe Earth Day Copyright Day is BAHA’! What's your (UNESCO) poesia MONTH OF favorite way to Ifyou wrote a on or near the A help our planet? book, what would Baby crocodiles call out from inside first day of the JAMAL

it be about? their eggs when it's time to hatch! Baha’i month. (BEAUTY)

y WHAT KIN? OF BOOKS 2 9 30 0 RABBITS LIKE? NINTH DAY OF

RIDVAN Gogmo’s Word Challenge / :

Honors Baha'u'lléh's a) Rolled out bread dough ~ <= oe, family joining Him in b) Made much larger > —

the Garden of Ridvan 1c) Explained in detail Xs HOPE owes

9-06 ‘YIMSNY MARCH/APRIL 2012 % Brilliant Star 25 [Page 26]A Sal i. who served

oar out the call of the Divine

Kingdom,” ‘Abdu’l-Baha

wrote Martha Root in 1918.

“Thou shalt witness great results and extraordinary confirmations.” In 1912, Martha Root had often attended talks by the Baha’i leader as he traveled in North America. She arranged for him to speak in Pittsburgh, where she lived. She even met with him, and listening to him filled Martha with longing to spread his message of love and unity. She was so eager that she wrote to him in 1918, suggesting she go on a world tour to share the Baha’i Faith. His answer thrilled her. By 1919, at age 47, she was stuffing her bags with books and pamphlets to set off for South America.

Martha, an experienced journalist, went to the newspaper office after she landed in Brazil. Through news stories, she explained her purpose— as she would throughout her future travels. “If any one feels timid about asking opportunities to speak . . .” she once said, “remember that no day comes twice .. .” Martha found plenty of opportunities. She gathered

people into study classes and spoke to clubs, colleges, and community leaders. She once gave 25 talks in about a week!

Yet speaking to crowds wasn’t always easy. Once she suddenly felt nervous before a talk and ducked into the ladies’ room. “I get this way sometimes,” Martha confessed to her companion. But no case of jitters could keep Martha from giving her message. She didn’t try to convince others that she was important.

She traveled and ate

as cheaply as possible,

spending little on herself. Martha spoke to crowds around the world. Her talks were

simple and given with love.

Her message went straight to listeners’ hearts. They were touched by her warmth and the light in her eyes. At times, her talks ended with the audience surrounding her.

Even kings and queens were charmed by the woman who arrived bearing simple gifts—a sprig of flowers, a bit of candy—along with the greatest gift, the words of Baha'u'llah, the Baha'i Faith’s Founder. One of those was Queen Marie of Romania.

Martha Root (above) traveled to share the Baha’ Faith with many people, notably Queen Marie of Romania (left).

Determined to meet the queen, Martha sent her a letter and a book about the Faith. The queen read the book that night and invited Martha to visit the next day, January 30, 1926. “I believe these Teachings are the solution for the world’s problems today!” she told Martha. Later, the queen urged all people to “search out” the teachings and let them stir their hearts as they had hers. Martha would meet eight times with the queen, the first monarch to become a Baha'i.

Martha circled the globe four times, studying new languages and speaking before audiences more educated and powerful than herself.

She passed away in Hawaii on September 28, 1939, while planning yet more travels. Shoghi Effendi, ‘Abdu'l-Baha’s grandson, named her a Hand of the Cause of God" and said that her efforts were “the nearest approach to the example set by ‘Abdu'l-Baha Himself . . . in the course of His journeys throughout the West.”

.

26

Brilliant Star % MARCH/APRIL 2012

AHand of the Cause of God served the Baha'i community in significant ways,

including encouraging others in teaching and protecting the Faith [Page 27]ART iN ACTION

ideo games, websites, animation, movies,

TV—what's your favorite media? The work of multimedia artists is exciting and diverse. Using still and motion pictures, music, graphics, and words, artists take us to far-off galaxies. They reveal the wonders of Earth and its amazing animals. Or they share messages about issues like justice and unity.

Multimedia production is a fascinating field with

technology that changes faster than a cheetah runs.

But timeless skills such as drawing, writing, and design are important, too. A key part of a movie or game is telling a good story.

If the dynamic world of multimedia stirs your imagination, explore its many cool careers. Take a class in creating animation, websites, or video games. Talk to professionals and read. Someday, you may share your unique vision with tools that haven't even been invented yet!

Dr MUSICIAN

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[Page 28]R

V4 HOW MANY DIFFERENT WAYS TO COMMUNICATE CAN YOU FIND

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"S¢ Look for clues throughout the magazine.

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KZ LFOUND AT LEAST 25! v

1. A good way to deal with fear of public is to choose a topic you're passionate about. (p. 21)

¢

2. In ‘Abdu'l-Baha's 140 published talks in North America, this word appears over 200 times! (p. 14)

3. One idea that ‘Abdu'l-Bahd spoke of in 1912 is the independent search for . (p. 10)

4. A key part of a movie or game is telling a good

o

They may look like rocks or plants, but they're actually

p. 27) animals related to jellyfish. (p. 11)

—(

8. Endangered creatures that communicate with sounds, 6, ____ stimulates your brain. (p. 24) facial expressions, and gestures, similar to humans (p. 7) 7. Using this in moderation is key. (p. 8) 9. When Shawn is worried, he says, "| just think .." (p.13) 10. Taylor says a good listener has . (p. 12) 11. There are almost 7,000 ___ on Earth. (p. 5) 13. Hartmut Grossmann says young people are the driving force,

like fresh - (p. 23) 16. Ship that sank tragically in 1912 (p. 4)

17. Martha Root shared the Baha'i Faith with Queen of Romania. (p. 26)

18. Up to 90% of an

12. Lightning and Luna travel to the Uplifters'__ outpost. (p. 18) 14. "King of Festivals" in the Baha'i Faith (p. 25)

15. Words “as mild as "can calm a heated conversation and keep anger from burning out of control. (p. 17) is underwater. (p. 29)

19. Anaturally magnetic mineral once used to create compasses (p. 2)

FROM OUR MAILBOX

ANSWERS

KEY: T=Top, C=Center, B=Bottom, L=Left, R=Right

Page 3 (T to B, to R): Unity, Peace Equity, Justice, Mercy, Open-Mindedness, Moderation, Wisdom, Generosity, Thanktulness, Detachment, Fath

| was wondering if | can do anything for Trailblazers* or something . . . | want to help with the magazine or the website... | am working on a play or script. It is called

The Last Battle of Mulla Husayn. | have

Page 6:1) time, 2) distractions, 3) attention, 4) open, 5) Focus, 6) understand, 7) interrupting, 8) patient, 9) language

Page 7:1 at TL, at TC, 3 at TR, 4 at CR, 1 at

and it is going quite well!

—Ayana D., age 13, Ghana

finished my first rough draft of the script

Editors’ Note: We'd love to have your help, Ayana—thanks for offering! We wish you the best with your play about Mulla Husayn, a great hero. We hope you'll share it with us.

Page 4: 1) False. Only nine states gave women full voting rights. 2) True; 3) True; 4) False. It was 1938 before child labor was outlawed in the US. 5) False, Ragtime music was popular. 6) False. Jeans were developed during the California Gold Rush in the 1800s. 7) False. Education was not required in ll states until 1918. 8) True; 9) True; 10) Tue; 11) True

Page 5: 1) languages, 2) native, 3) writing, 4) United Nations, 5) Olympic, 6) Internet, 7) distractions, 8) sign

BR, 4al BC, 1 atBL, 3at CL, 1 atC Page 10 (TtoB): World Peace, Equality of Women and Men, Race Unity, Ending Prejudice, Education for All, Independent Search fr Truth, Harmony of Science and Religion, Oneness of Religion, Economic Fairness, Universal Language

Page 11: Thailand, Blue-Footed Boobies Page 17:1) calm, 2) cool, 3) breath

4) feelings, 5) frustrated, 6) sorry, 7) help

Page 21: A)5,B) 7, C)2, D}1,£) 4, F)3,G)6,H)8

28

Brilliant Star 4% MARCH/APRIL 2012

“Trailblazers are kids who share their ideas with Brilliant Star. To learn more, e-mail us at brilliant@usbne.org. [Page 29]ADVENTURE

f you sail past an iceberg, you may never guess questions to see if you can help. By listening and watching that up to 90% of it is underwater. Ships must for unspoken messages, you can steer conversations navigate carefully near icebergs to avoid unseen dangers. through murky waters and build stronger friendships. Like an iceberg, what’s under the surface plays an Similarly, you can make sure your words match your important part in communication. Sometimes people’s body language. When you interact with others, the words true feelings are hidden under their words. A friend you use are just the tip of the iceberg. By showing may say, “I’m fine,” but his or her drooping shoulders _ your true self and exploring the depths of others’ and sad voice tell you otherwise. You may gently ask feelings, your communication can be smooth sailing.

Much of this iceberg hides in the waters of the Arctic Ocean. Find your way from Expressive Edge to the Truthfut Tip. y i fi p g ful Tip.

Ce val $ Summit of ¢ d Sincerity

ICEBERGS ARE CHUNKS OF ICE OVER 16.4 FEET*

\ ABOVE SEA LEVEL.

CONTACT AND SMILING, CAN HAVE DIFFERENT f=

Path of > Perplexity

fy Formation of Feelings

Ice Floe of m Emotions

Va

4

Abyss of Uncertainty

“16-4eet=8m MARCH/APRIL 2012 % Brilliant Star 29 [Page 30]“Means of communication have multiplied,

| and the... continents of the earth have

virtually merged into one... In like manner all the members of the human family .. . have become increasingly interdependent ... Hence the unity

of all mankind can in this day be achieved.”

— ‘Abdu’l-Baha

Brilliant Star www.brilliantstarmagazine.org Communicating with Kindness * March/April 2012 ¢ Vol. 44, No. 1

AN AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL — SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES >