A BAHA'I COMPANI

SAVOR LIFE’S MAGICAL MOMENTS

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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

MANY THANKS TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS: Kevin Agazi + Regina Bestbier + Lisa Blecker Carmel Davidson » Amahn Enayati

Amin Tava Fifita » Alex Findlay - Randy Johnson Maxine Kang-Auger » Shabnam Mogharabi

Ellis Paul « Anisa Pezeshki + Layli Phillips

Alilah Porter » Donna Price * Nava Ramazanali Dr. Stephen Scotti + Dr. Amanda Vincent

ART AND PHOTO CREDITS

Original illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted

By Lisa Blecker: Photos for pp. 6, 16; Coloring for pp. 16, 27 By Foad Ghorbani: Art for pp. 3, 9

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Historical photos courtesy National Baha'i Archives, unless noted

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS By Amy Renshaw: 11, 14

By Susan Engle: 9, 12, 18, 20, 24, 28 By Annie Reneau: 2, 3, 4, 10, 21, 22, 26 By Lisa Blecker: 6, 16

By Donna Price: 5, 7, 11, 14, 17, 27, 29

SUBSCRIPTION RATES AND RENEWALS

To order or renew a subscription, contact Baha'i Subscriber Service: Toll-free: 1.800.999.9019 / E-mail: 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 all ages. Contact us for editorial themes or submission guidelines.

RIGHTS, PERMISSIONS AND CLASS USE

All content in this magazine is copyrighted by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the U.S. or by individual contributors. For permission to copy or translate material, contact: Rights and Permissions, Brilliant Star, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Teachers may photocopy pages in limited quantities for classroom use. “Brilliant Star” and issue date must be present on all copies, and proper credit given to the copyright owner. INTERNET RESOURCES AND INTERNET SAFETY

When Internet resources are provided as references, we make every effort to choose reliable websites, but we do not endorse or account for all content in these websites. We urge caution and parental guidance when using the Internet. For more information about Internet safety, visit www.wiredsafety. org

Brilliant Star empowers kids to explore their roles as world citizens. Inspired by the principles of peace and unity in the Baha'i Faith, we encourage readers to use their virtues to make the world a better place. The Baha’ Faith is the second most widespread religion in the world, with over five million Baha'is. It was founded by the Prophet Baha'u'llah (“Glory of God” in Arabic) in 1863. Baha'u'llah taught that all people are part of one human family, and all religions come from one God. Baha’u'llah’s eldest son, Abdu'l-Baha, interpreted His teachings and led the Baha’i community after Baha’u'llah’s passing. Today, Baha'is work to bring love and justice to the world, and end prejudice and discrimination of all kinds.

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ISSN 0884-3635

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Baha’u’llah’s Life: Mission of Peace He was known as “Father of the Poor.”

Riley’s Rainforest See the real you.

Nur’s Nook Create a unique book to honor Earth’s blessed spots.

We Are One

Explore and care for the place we all call home.

Radiant Stars

Get to know kids who shine, like you.

Lightning & Luna: Episode 58

Trouble erupts during a visit to their grandparents.

Maya’s Mysteries

Make a hovercraft and glide over life’s rough terrain.

Stargazer: Shabnam Mogharabi

She inspires millions through her work at SoulPancake.

Treble Chef’s Music Café

Celebrate the hero in you.

Shining Lamp: Abu’l-Qasim Faizi

A teacher who won people’s hearts with kindness

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

aMAZEing ADVENTURE

Take a spin with Repairobot and challenge your brain.

Stars by Markovka �[Page 1]

NEW DESTINATIONS

Look Up with Courage Your virtues help you reach great heights.

Time Traveler Take control of the clock with time-saving tips.

Steering to Success The skills you need on the road of life

Time for Celebration and Sharing Explore special Baha’i days with Anisa Pezeshki.

Are You a Team Player? Exercise your teamwork muscles at home.

Sea of Screens Don’t let pirates pillage your day.

Being Cyber-smart Navigate the Internet with intelligence.

Adventures Ahoy!

Draw a ship to help reach your dreams.

Magic of Life

You don’t need a wand to find life’s wonders.

Unity in Diversity: Brilliant Star’s Photo Contest

Zoom into our contest and take a shot at winning.

Josie’s Blog: The Case of the Baffling Bully What do you do when a bully attacks?

Fun in Numberville Amaze a friend with the power of math.

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rs} sTel att) (-) tJ Bee FSC*® C103362

Did you know that after the sun,

the nearest star, Proxima Centauri (at left), is about 25 trillion miles away? In our fastest spacecraft, it would take over 73,000 years to get there!

But that doesn't mean we shouldn't reach for the stars. Part of the thrill of life is thinking big, dreaming outrageously exciting dreams, and going for them! The only way to find out what you can do is to give it your best shot.

In this issue, let your goals soar, and take steps to achieve them. Draw an imaginative vehicle for your life's adventures, make a cool hovercraft to glide you through stressful times, and take a quiz on being a team player with your family. Get tips on using technology wisely and staying organized. And meet Shabnam Mogharabi, who loves helping people explore life's big questions.

Our planet is full of opportunities and wonders—and you get to help create the world of

tomorrow. Reach for the

stars—and see how far you can go! Check out fun tools for exploring on our new website at

www. brilliantstarmagazine.org.

With love from Brilliant Star

Proxima Centauri by ESA/Hubble & NASA �[Page 2]

A sky-high cliff looms before you. It looks 10

times taller than it did in the distance.

5X Your heart races with excitement and fear. ~ How will you ever reach the top?

Rock climbers who scale daunting heights do so

after a lot of practice and training. They carry the it. And they stay

right gear and know how to use ter.

with an experienced guide or par 9 overcoming other

safe Climbing a rock face is similar t

challenges, such as starting a new school or giving a

speech. Practicing your skills gives you confidence. Virtues are the tools you use—such as the courage to

express yourself or the self-discipline to study hard.

And when you need it, you cat ask for help by praying to

God. You can also talk to friends, family, and teachers. If you're dealing with a challenge, spiritual strengths ¢

help you face your fears, stay calm, and think positively.

You never know how high you'll climb until you try:

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USHED CHALK HELPS KEEP / YOUR HANDS DRY | a A RCTICeE crir AL TT : | ABETTER GRIP ONT

era

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 �[Page 3]A Brief Timeline —

The hife of Baha'u'llah

1817 November 12_| Birth of Bahé’u'llah in Tihran, Iran

18442” = Recognizes the Bab as anew Messenger of God

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.

dé j

$03 AD Declares Divine Mission as Prophet-Founder of the Baha’ Faith

1

Exile in Constantinople (Istanbul), then Adrianople | ¢ (Edirne), Turkey. Begins |*

writing letters to kings and rulers in 1867, urging world unity

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

Finally free to live in countryside homes

of Mazra‘ih and then Bahjf, outside ‘Akka

7

Baha’u’llah’s life: Mission of Peaee A hoity Gareer

be when you grow up? People wondered that about Baha’u'llah, too. He was 22 years old when His father, Mirza Buzurg, passed away.

p) people often ask you what you want to

Mirza Buzurg had been an important minister in the court of Iran’s shah, or king, and Baha’u'llah was offered the job. But He had no interest in this position of power, and He turned the job down. Many were surprised by Baha’u’llah’s choice. But the prime minister said, “Leave him to himself. Such a position is unworthy of him. He has some higher aim in view... ] am convinced

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Find words about getting ready for your future. Look forward, backward, up, down, and diagonally.

that he is destined for some lofty career.”

Baha’u llah focused on helping those in need. His home was open to all. He generously shared His wealth and was known as “Father of the Poor.” Later, Baha’u’llah called on people to “Dedicate the precious days of your lives to the betterment of the world . . .” He said work is “an act of worship.”

Do you want to be an architect or an astronaut? An artist or an athlete? Maybe you want to invent a whole new career! Whatever you choose, you can use your talents to serve with joy.

4

PLANNING

WI Jo

A.\ RESILIENCE a

SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013 % Brilliant Star 3 �[Page 4]‘€ RILEV’S RAINFOREST

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

hen you look in the

mirror, do you see yourself? “Of course!” you might think. But what you see is your body—which isn’t really you. Your real self is your soul. Your soul uses your body to do its work in this world, such as helping others, developing your talents, and building good character. The Baha'i writings say that the body is like a lantern. The soul is the light that shines through the lantern.

It can be easy to focus on what your lantern looks like instead of how well it works. And it is important to be clean, well- groomed, and healthy. But when you see celebrities on TV or other media, you might start to think that you should look a certain way.

The truth is that photos in the media are often changed to make people look thinner, smoother, rounder, or unrealistic in other ways. Real bodies come in all shapes

Curiosity Canopy

See the Real You

and sizes—and those differences add to the beautiful diversity of our world.

Your body is a sacred tool, which helps your soul grow, progress, and serve. So it’s crucial to take care of it with nutritious food and physical exercise. Treat your body kindly—it’s the most complex and amazing machine ever created!

Look at your reflection in the mirror with love and acceptance, and appreciate the things your body can do. If you practice smart habits, you can help your body be stronger, healthier, and the best it can be.

{>} you know one of the best ways to avoid getting a cold or the flu? Wash your hands to get rid of the pesky germs that

Saeco Ube O are m ie ler mie lko a and scrub for 20 seconds (try singing “Happy

Birthday” to yourself twice) before rinsing.

4 Brilliant Star % SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013

Explore & Soar: Be Kind to Yourself

Ww you love someone, you express it by treating them with respect and kindness. Here are ways to treat your own body with care:

co Drink plenty of water. You'll be healthier and more energetic.

co Move it. Regular exercise strengthens your bones, muscles, and heart.

o Eat a rainbow each week. Each color of fruits and veggies has diverse health benefits.

o Protect it from the sun. Use sunscreen and avoid the sun during peak hours.

co Speak about it kindly. You don't tell your friends they're ugly or fat, so don't be negative with yourself either.

mo Use helmets and other safety gear for sports. One body is all you've got!

�[Page 5]

E TRAVELER

A tressed? Need to find another couple of hours, or Organize a spot to keep your school stuff, so you don’t

even a week? Maybe you can! You don’t need a time waste time looking for it.

machine, just a planner and a pencil. Organizing your If you're overwhelmed, look at your extra activities

life can give you more time to enjoy the things you love. | —are you doing too much? Talk to your parents about Update your planner daily, and make a to-do list cutting back. Make time to get enough sleep—most

of homework, projects, chores, and events. Write your kids need at least 10 hours.

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deadlines and set priorities, so the most important Staying organized and keeping a positive attitude things get done first. Have a desk or quiet place for help you get more done and feel less stress. And that’s studying, away from TV and other distractions. almost like having your own time machine! EX 1/1 NEVER GET THAT HUGE ASSIGNMENT 4s ARGH! T’LL MISS THE FIELD TRIP—-L a FORGOT MY PERMISSION SLIP. om my “ Pat HOW CAN T CONCENTRATE WHEN : } MY FRIENDS KEEP TEXTING? I'LL PUT THE SOCCER SCHEDULE IN MY PLANNER. = fp wad :

CULL STUDY BEFORE DINNER, WHILE I HAVE LOTS OF ENERGY. J

) D iL fa WVZA jae ‘ | ! T’LL BREAK MY ASSIGNMENT INTO SMALLER STEPS - Ree WILL TAKE TOO LONG. T’LL JUST SKIP IT. d) ped re ( = {ZL T’LL GET MY CHORES VO ANH BP our Gs PasTeR ecnee’ er MY het ‘ S | NE how, SO I CAN HANG OUT WITH MY FRIENDS LATER. 4 , PROJECT IS DUE TOMORROW! A We YN WV X . r TEMG TEENENEER iE 3Se i THOSE PROBLEMS LOOK HARP. T’LL PLAN FF feed ORG ais Ryall riiok hij SO uC TL RENENBER «iia pasa Ly INE EXTRA TIME TO WORK ON THEI. 7 We ° 4 . _ iF 2

These sisters are planning priorities. Match each negative thought with the positive thought to overcome it.

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 »% Brilliant Star 5 �[Page 6]

1

rrrring—school’s out! You make a beeline to your best friend to talk about your day. After a great chat, your friendship grows stronger. In a similar way, we talk with God when we pray. Prayer connects us with our Creator. Just as food nourishes our bodies, prayer can bring strength and joy to our spirits. Praying with others is a powerful way to build unity. Invite friends to a prayer party at home, at a park, or anywhere. Make this book to help you memorize or share a beautiful prayer.

Blessed is the spot, and the house, and the place, and the city,

and the heart, and the mountain, and the refuge, and the cave,

and the valley, and the land,

and the sea, and the island,

and the meadow where mention of God hath been made, J and His praise glorified. —Bahé’u'llah ZZ

8 envelopes ¢ ruler ribbon '/" (.6 cm) wide (length = 5 x envelope width) ribbon ‘/" (.6 cm) wide (length = 8 x envelope width) ¢ scissors © tacky glue colorful pens © magazines ¢ photos ¢ optional: decorative paper, sticker labels

1 For envelope that 2 Thread shorter will be last, cut ribbon through %" (.6 cm) slits slits. Secure with 3 With envelope pockets facing 4 Glue long ribbon across at top and bottom glue so ends are up, glue inside of each flap to center of entire book for ribbon. same length. non-pocket side of another to create two pockets

envelope. Repeat for all, per book page. ending with last envelope.

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5 Like an accordion, fold 6 Write different parts 7 A) Fill pockets with drawings : envelopes along flap of prayer on envelope or photos that represent - crease. Front and back pockets. Or write on the words. Mount some covers of book won't paper or sticker labels on decorative paper. ; have pockets. Cut off and stick to pages. B) Tie ribbon to close. first envelope’s flap. Decorate cover. Add title.

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6 Brilliant Star % SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013 �[Page 7]

s

— STEERING Te succes

“We must strive with energies of heart, soul and mind to develop and manifest the perfections and virtues ...” —‘Abdu’l-Baha =

=

| hat are your dreams for your future? Do you want _‘ the right direction? Join a school club that relates to to travel the globe as a photographer, start a service your goals? Is there a place where you can volunteer to project in Asia, go to medical school, or be an learn about the career? Can you contact someone who Olympic athlete? To be happy with your career, it’s best does that work and ask for advice? Give each milestone to find something that you love. To reach your dreams, a deadline and get moving! you've got to take the wheel and steer with courage. You may hit roadblocks along the way. Ask friends Start by describing your goals. Then map out your and family to help you keep going. Every turn enables route with a timeline. What can you do nowto headin you to build the skills you need for an exciting journey.

Fill in the missing letters to find some important skills and qualities for your life’s adventures.

gals ral 4) 4. CIT|_EN_ HIP _ FAL AN 5. J 5] 2. i_E _fl_Y e E/15. u_ti_e i 3. LE __RNIN _ 5/16. 6 _eR_ Hip S 4. SE ING GOA __S | — 5 17. ER {CE <i soe — als. pin. PO_!_WE ~) 18. SARIN _ —_ S| 5. BEIN —

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SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 % Brilliant Star 7 �[Page 8]

ou may be familiar with the three Baha’i events in February and March: Ayyam-i-Ha, fasting, and Naw-Raz. Ayyam-i-Ha is four or five days long, from sunset on February 25 to sunset on March 1. You may be asking, What do you do during Ayydm-i-Hd? Well, the purpose is to appreciate the bounties of God. Baha’is often donate time and money to charity and participate in random acts of kindness, such as helping at soup kitchens. <> This is also a time to exchange ‘© gifts, whether homemade or from the store. You and your family can pick a service project or give each other a gift for each day of this wonderful holiday. Ayyam-i-Ha is a time to appreciate the people around you. Sometimes on holi- days, people are rushing around and forget to enjoy their family because they are so busy with other things. So remember to enjoy this blissful time with your loved ones. After Ayyam-i-Ha is the 19- Day Fast, from March 2-20. Some Baha’is above age 15 do not eat or

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CELEBRATION AND SHARING

BY ANIGA PEZESHKI, ace 14

drink from sunrise to sunset. Yeah, you are thinking: Why would you starve yourself all day? The idea is to get closer to God by abstaining from food and drink. You are required to fast from ages 15-70 if you

are healthy. If you are sick, are pregnant, travel more than nine hours in a day, or are over age 70, then you shouldn’t fast, because it could do more harm than good.

During this time, Baha’is also pray and meditate. Fasting minimizes our selfish desires, and it puts us in the shoes of someone who is less fortunate than we are. Next year, I will be fasting, and I look forward to the time where I will get closer to God. I experience the fast by waking up with my parents and eating breakfast, and then I don’t eat or drink anything until 12:30 p.m. This is one way I practice a half-fast.

The last holiday is Naw-Rdz! It's “New Day” in Farsi (Persian), and it's the Persian and Baha’i New Year. There is no set way to celebrate it. It’s my favorite holiday, because it is always fun decorating our table with Haft-seen, a traditional Persian setting. It means “Seven S.”

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8 Brilliant Star % SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

Each item starts with S and symbolizes something significant: 1. Sabzeh (wheat or lentil sprouts): Growth, freshness of spring 2. Samanu (sweet pudding): Hard work, patience 3. Seeb (apple): Health, beauty 4. Senjed (dried fruit of lotus tree): Productivit 5

5. Seer (garlic): Medicine

6. Somag (sumac): Spice in life 7. Sombul (hyacinth): Spring, fragrance, beauty

Naw-Raz is on March 21, which is also the first day of spring. The point is to renew and refresh your life, as nature does. My Persian family celebrates it by having Haft- seen, relaxing, and enjoying each other's company. I hope you enjoy these holidays, and best wishes in the new year!

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Haft-seen ohoto b byA Mandana Asadi, star art by Markovka �[Page 9]pre Yu 3 Tem

t's Friday night, and the

T crowd is roaring at your school’s big game. You and

your teammates have practiced and sharpened your skills. You've learned to listen to each other and cooperate with your strategies. Now it’s game time!

Being in a family is like being on a team. It involves using peaceful skills, such as listening, giving encouragement, and having respect for each other.

But there may be times when you don't feel like a team player. It can be frustrating if your older brother gets to stay up late or your little sister doesn’t know how to share. When there are conflicts, ask for a family

huddle to express your feelings

and consult about solutions. When familes work together

like a team, everyone can win!

Gis ger?

Are you a team player in your family? Take this quiz to find out. (If you don’t have a sibling, think of a cousin or another relative.)

“If love and agreement are manifest in a single family, that family will advance, become illumined and spiritual. . .”. —’Abdu’'l-Baha

I focus on the good qualities in my siblings. Often=3 ¢ Sometimes=2 ¢ Rarely=1

I share my stuff with my family members. Often=3 ¢ Sometimes=2 @ Rarely =1

When I need a parent’s attention, I ask instead of getting upset. Often=3 ° Sometimes=2 ¢ Rarely =1

_ If I’m angry with a sibling, I

wait until I’m calm and then talk about it. Often=3 ¢ Sometimes=2 ¢ Rarely =1

I’m careful not to shove, hit, or physically hurt any family member.

Often=3 ¢ Sometimes=2 @ Rarely =1

When a family member wants to talk or share news, I listen with respect. Often=3 ¢ Sometimes=2 @ Rarely =1

I understand that my parents may have different rules for me and for my siblings because of our different ages or other reasons. Often=3 ° Sometimes=2 @ Rarely =1

eiceys-y arte You're an expert team player in your family! Your skills will help you throughout your life.

yak) atyiiies) You're on your way to victory.

Exercise your teamwork muscles for even more success.

nieuw ld feyiiey) Time for a practice session. Share

some tips from the quiz with siblings to strengthen

the family team.

8 I focus on doing my best, instead

of comparing myself to others. Often=3 ¢ Sometimes=2 @ Rarely =1

9 Icheer about my siblings’ successes,

like a good grade or winning a game. Often=3 © Sometimes=2 ¢ Rarely =1

10 When I want to borrow something

that doesn’t belong to me, I ask first. Often=3 © Sometimes=2 @ Rarely =1

11 I do my fair share of chores around

the house without complaining. Often=3 © Sometimes=2 © Rarely =1

12 If my sibling doesn’t want to be

teased about something, I stop. Often=3 ° Sometimes=2 ¢ Rarely =1

SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013 * Brilliant Star 9

�[Page 10]hoy, Captain! You're sailing |

the seas in a high-stakes game of strategy. As you troll for treasure, you have to avoid pesky

pirates and battle fierce beasts. But those monsters don’t just dwell

PS VIOLENT Y =< VENOM

in the virtual deep—they lurk in your

living room and prowl in your pockets.

They rear their ugly heads when you overuse technology, such as cell phones, computers, video games, or TV. If you’re not careful, they can take over.

We live in a fun and amazing world,

with oceans of entertainment at our Ol GRUMPY S

GOLUMPER

fingertips. But gadgets can easily get

FLUNKING FRIDOLF

distracting. They can rob you of time

for important things like outdoor play, schoolwork, and sleep. They can pillage your schedule, plunder your motivation, and hold your goals hostage!

Planning and moderation can help you avoid those pitfalls. Talk with your parents about responsible use of screen time and stick to time limits. Try some board games or crafts with friends. Navigating your days is a lot less stressful when you keep the tech beasts at bay.

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10 Brilliant Star % SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013 sea WITeege �[Page 11]

7 i

. EXPLoRE AND PROTEcT THE * c . EARTH AND ITs €REATURES

“All the eee of this endless universe Eg) Liat ce! one to another.” —Bahaii Writings

WOW, REALLY?

The Arctic tern

makes the longest

migration of any

animal: about 44,000 miles (71,000 km) between Greenland and Antarctica — every year!

With skin cells that mimic its surroundings, this B creature is the king of camouflage. Found from

California to Japan, the largest reach about 25 feet

wide (7.5 m). It can solve mazes and recognize

people. Fill in the blanks to find its name:

GIA TF FA TI 0 TO US

Images: Elephant by Graeme Shannon; bird by BMJ; Dr. Vincent by

Project Seahorse; city by Soft Focus Photography, creature by Boris Pamikov SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 & Brilliant Star 1 1 �[Page 12]ave

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Connect with kids around the world! How are they like you? How are they

Nava R Age: 13 wi | live in: Ohio, U.S.

| want to be:

Neurologist [or have] a career in medical sciences

The virtues | admire most in people: Loyalty, honesty, and kindness

Hobbies or sports: Playing viola

Favorite Baha’i activities: Going to Baha’i schools, like Louhelen Baha'i School

Favorite animal or pet: KX My cat, Abigail

different? Each of us has a unique * story to tell. What’s yours? &

wi A Fi

Place I'd love to visit: Brazil

| like to help people by: Giving them advice or comforting them

My biggest challenge is: Having a lot of work and becoming stressed out by it. I handle it by giving breaks to myself and calming down.

If | could travel through time: I would want to see if I

become successful, and all the new technology.

One of my role models is: Marie Curie, because she was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, studied many different fields of sciences, and discovered two periodic elements (radium and polonium).

Something I’ve accomplished that made me feel confident: Getting into Honors Orchestra

%

| live in: Oregon, U.S.

| want to be: A biomedical engineer

The virtue | admire most in people: Perseverance

Hobbies or sports: Computers, consumer electronics, basketball

Favorite Baha'i activities: Junior youth [group]

Place I'd love to visit: Iran

| like to help people by: Helping around the house by keeping it clean and helping with yard work and cooking. I also like to help my friends with their studies and problems.

If | could travel through time: [I would want to see] what my family is like (wife, kids, etc.), and how the world has changed

technologically. 4 fires or shootings.

Alilah Porter

Age: 12

llivein: Georgia, U.S. ya Ay

| want to be:

A pro basketball player

and a veterinarian

The virtue |admire most in people: Trustworthiness

Favorite animal or pet: All animals, but my favorite are wolves and dogs

llike to help people by: 1

Makingthemsmile ~ and being reliable

6 One of my role models is:

Bill Gates ... He’s a perfect example of generosity. He also is one of the most dedicated people I know. He will get something done no matter what...

Something I’ve accomplished that made me feel confident: Playing a good game of basketball... especially if I did something special in the game.

A talent | would love to have: Beling] able to know when anything is going to happen before it hap- pens, because then I could prevent disasters, such as

Place |’d love to visit: Africa

My biggest challenge is: Math, but Ihave become better by studying more and practicing.

If could travel through time: I would want to see if I had achieved my dream of playing in the WNBA!*

One of my role models is: [NBA champion] K Dwyane Wade, because he inspired me to try harder in basketball...

Something I’ve accomplished that made me feel confident: I was kind of nervous to

go to middle school, but

by passing fifth grade,

I knew I could do it.

A talent | would love to have: Dunking a basketball, because I feel like it’s really cool. a

12

Brilliant Star

%& SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013

Women’s National Basketball Association

�[Page 13]Carmel Davidson Age: 12 One of my role models is: | live in: California, U.S. tee ae acu | want to be: Doctor up on me. I know they The virtue |admire most in 24 always there for me people: Perseverance ... They always say that they have unconditional Hobbies or sports: ok love for me, andIlam Soccer and listening slowly finding out what to music that means. Favorite Baha'i activities: Something I’ve accomplished Going to junior ye that made me feel confident: youth gatherings I participated in a service Place I’d love to visit: Paris project with paar My biggest challenge is: Ayaan se by — TostaycalmwhenIface 405 nursing home. We newthingsthatIhave je helping and ‘ never done/seen before having fun! " ... Once I push myself : forward ...1 [feel] more comfortable...

If | could travel through time: I [would want to] see myself getting into a *

medical school and becoming the best doctor I can be. Maxine Kang-Auger es Age: 9 One of my role models is: aoe ‘Abdu’l-Baha, because of | live in: Quebec, Canada all his good qualities that] | want to be: A doctor would like to have as well. The virtue | admire most in Something I’ve accomplished people: Truthful[ness] that made me feel confident: Hobbi its. I played with one of my eee friends who was left out.

Ilike to swim and read. Favorite animal or pet: Atalent | would love to have:

Koalas and dolphins Building things, because Ilove to do that... [I

Place I’d love to visit: | built] a birdhouse with

New York my grandfather and a

| like to help people by: model airplane with

Making them happy my dad. I would like * to build a house...

My biggest challenge is: Being bullied. I handle it by telling what x

“God has crowned you with honor and in your hearts has He set a radiant star;

verily the light thereof shall brighten the whole world!” = — ‘Abdu'l-Baha

Amin Tava Fifita Age: 8 | live in:

Kingdom of Tonga

| want to be: Ascientist and architect

The virtue | admire most in people: Helpfulness, because sometimes when people fall and hurt themselves it makes them happy when someone helps them.

Hobbies or sports: Rugby and kickball Ho Favorite Baha'i activities: Going to Baha’i summer school, because it’s fun and I meet new friends. also like going to my school ... because it's

a Baha'i school, and

we learn about virtues as well as maths and | reading. ,

Place I’d love to se : _ New Zealand, because! | have! lols of ey ther

1. If you're age 7-14, go to www. brilliantstarmagazine.org and choose “Explore,” “Baha'is & Friends in Action,” then “Radiant Stars.” Click “Apply Now’ and fill out the form. Or e-mail us at brilliant@usbnc.org. Include your name, age, birth date, mailing address, and phone number.

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

pee ae enta. the signed form, along with at least two good- quality, close-up photographs of your smiling If | could travel through time: face. Photos should be in sharp focus and show Iwould like to see ifIdida your eyes clearly. Please don’t send color copies, good job teaching my baby low-resolution digital images, or copyright- * brother to be a good boy. protected images (like school portraits). ee ina et eal eet SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013 & Brilliant Star 9 �[Page 14]

ANH ZS N) SOAK

RECALL THE BOTS! HAVE THEM COVER

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HOW VIP YOU GET INTO SOLAR

WHEN T WAS A KID, MY FAMILY LIVE? IN INDIA. WE HELPED WITH A BAHA’| PROJECT TO SET UP SOLAR COOKERS IN THE VILLAGES.

POWER?

Brilliant Star

%& SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013 �[Page 15]

THE WAY SCIENCE CAN HELP PEOPLE KEALLY INSPIRED ME.

BUT TECHNOLOGY CAN BE TWISTED. LOOK AT THE ERASERS.

ANOTHER REASON FOR THE GOO? GUYS TO STUDY SCIENCE!

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a a ol INOS ae 5

CHECK OUT PAST EPISODES OF LIGHTNING & LUNA AT WWW.BRILLIANTSTAKMAGAZINE.ORG

N QUICK! Bie INTO THAT [9p

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 ¥* Brilliant Star

15 �[Page 16]

hat can speed over land, water, ice, or rocks— Wes float in the air? The amazing hovercraft! This vehicle glides above Earth’s surface on a cushion of air created by fans. It navigates difficult terrain for rescues, research, the military, or just for fun. Like air that keeps a hovercraft afloat, you have tools to help you rise above problems, including

You'll Need: Clear packing tape old CD © pushpin © mounting

putty © pop-top cap from a plastic bottle e round balloon © permanent marker @ large smooth surface

1. Tape over bottom side of CD hole, pressing tape flat. With pushpin, punch six evenly spaced holes in tape. Wiggle pin slightly to widen holes.

BUILY YOUR OWN COOL LITTLE HOVERCRAFT!

Gliding Through Life

gratitude and patience. When you focus on blessings, you're better able to handle stress or anxiety.

It’s not always easy to feel grateful. You may get upset about a fight with a friend or a bad grade. But after you take steps to solve a problem, focus on the positive. Pay attention to what lifts your spirit, and glide over rough terrain in your life.

Hovercraft Happiness

2. Roll putty into %" thick ring shape that can fit snugly around bottom of cap.

3. Turn CD right side up. Fit cap inside putty ring and place in center of CD. Press putty to firmly secure cap to CD, making an airtight seal. Write activities you enjoy on surface of CD.

4. Blow up balloon. Completely cover closed cap with balloon opening. Put hovercraft on smooth surface and give it a push. What happens?

Open cap, stand balloon straight up, and push. What happens now?

sete sak See tes

When two objects rub against each other, they create friction, which slows them down. When you open the cap of your hovercraft, air from the balloon flows down and under the CD. That reduces friction by creating a cushion of air which lifts the hovercraft slightly above the surface, so it no longer rubs and it glides smoothly.

FEI ESE a sen et aE at oe aia cathy ei

mary Satya

16 Brilliant Star % SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

�[Page 17]

amp! On the Internet, things can spread like

lightning. A school counselor wanted to prove that to her students. She posted a

photo of herself, noting her goal, and asked people to “like” it. It was shared so widely that over five million people had liked it in a couple of weeks!

It’s fun to learn and connect with others

online. But before you click, THINK: Is it True? Is it Helpful, not hurtful? Does it Inspire others? Are you being Noble? Is it Kind? If the answer is

yes, you're on the path to positive posting.

The Internet is gigantic, and it’s easy to get lost. Tt can absorb your attention so much that you ignore

others and forget to do important stuff. But with

wisdom and courtesy, you can safely find your way!

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 ¥ Brilliant Star

17 �[Page 18]STARGAZER

18s

Shabnam Mogharabi

Q: What's your favorite

childhood memory?

A: I've got five younger [siblings and

cousins] ... | was oftentimes left in charge... My favorite childhood memories are of that— hanging out with [them] during the summer, trying to come

up with games and plays and making up stories and playing hide and seek, and just the six of us all being together...

Q: What was one of the most

challenging experiences for you when you were a kid, and how did you handle it?

A:|n elementary school, | got

called so many things because my name was hard to say... It almost immediately made me feel like | was an outsider...

| learned to kind of tease kids back and just roll with it, almost.

rom her youth, Shabnam Mogharabi longed to change the world

by telling stories. Today, her work sparks curiosity, creativity, and

spirituality in millions of people. She's CEO/Executive Producer at SoulPancake, a media company encouraging people to “talk about stuff that matters.” It asks questions like, "What did you do to be awesome today?" Shabnam says, "SoulPancake has taught me to be more joyful ... there's so much beauty and amazingness in the world ..." Since 2009, she's helped to coordinate fun, inspiring content like the "Kid President" videos, which attracted President Obama.

Shabnam studied journalism at Northwestern University in Illinois, U.S. She discovered her power for change by writing award-winning stories about high rates of drowning among minority kids. Her stories inspired a New York Times article, a movie, and a Red Cross swimming program.

Shabnam lives in California and loves dancing, camping, and sailing.

Left: Shabnam, age 9, loved being with her sisters. Right: Shabnam (third from left) celebrates with her parents, Fardad and Victoria, and her sisters (from left) Shawya, Nahel, and Neilou.

Q: You said you were nerdy as a kid. What advice do you have for kids who feel that way?

A: | think nerdiness [has] actually become cool ... Being nerdy means that you're a little bit different, and it makes you a little bit special. And being smart is okay. And being creative is okay. And being artistic is okay... It means that [you've] got something that other kids don't.

Q: Do you have any suggestions for how siblings can resolve conflicts?

A: Growing up, you know, we definitely had our share of sibling rivalry... Your siblings are your first best friends ... What we've had to learn as we got older is that we're on the same team... You have to forma friendship with your sibling . . . to find the things that are worth loving...

Brilliant Star %* SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013

Top left portrait © Bayan Joonam; on set © Ladybird Pictures �[Page 19]LS eee SEN

Q:

A:

ERTS

eT

What is SoulPancake,

and how did it begin? SoulPancake is a company that makes stuff... that matters... There are all these things that we think about but don't nec- essarily talk about, like, Why am | here? What's my purpose? What do | hope happens after | die? What is love?... Rainn Wilson, who is the actor from The Office... started this company to get people talking and having meaningful conversations. So we started with a website, and then...a book... About three years ago, we... [started making] videos for the web

and for television...

What's your advice for kids

who are interested in a career in journalism or writing? Actually try it out and see if you love doing it... Watch newscasts and read newspapers and look at magazines and, you know, read every article in Brilliant Star, because that’s how you're going to learn to be a better journalist.

Left: On a set in California, Shabnam talks about the day’s filming with the cast and crew. Right: The SoulPancake team creates shows for Oprah Winfrey's TV network. Left to right are Shabnam, Rainn Wilson, Oprah Winfrey, Golriz Lucina Gundry, Devon Gundry.

Q: How did your family encourage you in your studies and in your career?

A: | was really... really lucky because my parents [said] .. . find what you love... because at the end of the day, it's more important to be happy than to get a big paycheck or have some prestigious title... That was the best advice they gave me.

Q: How does the Baha'i Faith influence your work? A: SoulPancake was... based on a Baha'i principle... the independent investigation of the truth... Rainn wanted to make a place where it was safe for people to ask questions, and it wasn't about the right answer or the wrong answer... And whatever path that leads you on is awesome, because ...any path towards spirituality in any way is an important one. >»

Q: Tell us about “Kid President."

A: A little kid in Tennessee and his brother-in-law ... made [a video in front of a cardboard Oval Office], and the whole message . . . was, if it doesn't make the world more awesome, don't do it... [We] loved [his] energy... So they came on board as a SoulPancake partner... One of his videos, the pep talk, went viral, and it got millions of views... We got an e-mail ... saying ... President Obama wants to collaborate with "Kid President" ... We were just blown away that that actually happened.

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

A: My wish would be for every... kid to learn that you are your own best friend ... You have to learn to do the things that make you happy and that fulfill your heart, and it doesn't matter what other people think about . .. the things that you find joyful and inspiring . .. It's really important to have that. . . self- worth and to see that ... you are the person that's going to take care of yourself.

Read more of Shabnam’s interview at www.brilliantstarmagazine.org/

explore/bahais-friends-in-action/stargazers

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 * Brilliant Star

19

�[Page 20]-— MUSIC CAFE

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

THE OTHER MAVE FRIENDS WITH A NEW KID TaPAy ar scnoau, x saw Two) { THE OTHER ane, ENTS TY A

THERE ARE LOTS OF WAYS TO BE A HERO. SOMEONE WHO WAS BEING eee | I WANT EVERYONE To KNOW...

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14 A E E B E

all their trou- bles, all___ their glo- ries Tell me yours, you can- not bore_ me _ There’s a he-ro in you 2. Everybody's gota tale 3. Souse your brain and do some thinking Of how they chased a great white whale You could be the next Abe Lincoln Some succeeded, some just failed Use your muscle, try to hustle Trying’s what you gotta do You could be Muhammad Ali Cause in the trying, you feel you're flying Use your toes and dance on pumpkins The whole wide world’s beneath you lying You could be Isadora Duncan It’s you! It’s true! There’s no denying It’s you! It’s true! | hope it’s sunk in There’s a hero in you There’s a hero in you BRIDGE BRIDGE CHORUS CHORUS

hat’s the most exciting, exotic place you can specific goals that you're really passionate about, it’s

think of? Now imagine zooming around it— more fun to navigate your route. cS in a vehicle you designed. What does your So, where do you want to go? Which skills and craft look like? Does it dive deep into the ocean? virtues will help you get there? Don’t limit yourself to . Reach thrilling speeds in air? what you see every day. Look to the stars and aim high. Life is an adventure, with new places to see, Brilliant Star’s virtual ship—the Mystic people to meet, and skills to gain. Think of your Explorer*—traverses land, sea, air, and outer space strengths as a magical ship, carrying you anywhere to help kids explore physical and spiritual worlds. your dreams may lead. Your goals are a map to help Envision your own adventure craft, and chart your = you reach different destinations. When you choose course for thrilling new horizons.

Design a vehicle for your life's adventures. Does it fly, sail, zip over land, or launch into space? All of the above? Give it a fun name and express your goals, virtues, and interests. Then grab the captain's chair and take off!

Share your drawing in the Mystic Explorer's Art Gallery SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013 * Brilliant Star 21

at www. brilliantstarmagazine.org/play/gallery �[Page 22]

ave you ever wished you had

magical powers? In books and

movies, wizards cast spells and make potions to do the impossible — zip through time, make objects come to life, or turn an ordinary room into a palace of 4 wonders. Even if you can’t wave a wand to make your wishes come true, you can savor the magic all around you.

Imagine how you feel when you stare at a starry night sky, when warm grass tickles your toes, or when you laugh with your friends. Lots of life’s moments are magical when you're mindful of them. Just as a wizard has to concentrate to make a spell work, you have to be aware of the marvels around you to appreciate them.

You don’t need a wand or special potion to look for the beauty, joy, and wonder in our world. Just keep your eyes open— you'll know true magic when you see it.

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22

Drilliant Star % SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 �[Page 23]

ot at Brilliant Star's fun photo

a : ” Eriends from Tice ies : +! How would you capture "UY ea view of dolphins contest: :

‘ 5 ith a rainbow ttures playin ming W1 co ake other ocean creatules different people, S swimming 2 all shapes a ; tin diversity — \ of plants and ae ih peste) ie te examples of creatures, °F Ue plore ers of life. ae photos with us! cr e. EX ur and it’s awesom

—_ unity in diversity that inspire yor

= o you love taking

A Few Rules

1. Photos must be original work done by kids ages 7-15.

Here's What You Do

1. Use a camera that has at least three megapixels. 2. If you're in the running for a prize, we'll send Use the highest resolution setting possible. you 1) a permission form for you and your Submit up to three of your best pictures. parent/guardian to sign, and 2) a request for

2. In 125 words or less, tell us about each photo: when ese NE 2a. 0 Ot yoke ene miaiae

you took it and how it shows unity in diversity. 3. Winning entries may be published in Brilliant

3. ENTRIES ARE DUE BY JUNE 25. 2014 Star magazine or on our website. Your written

; ° : wanes

Send your description and photos as hight résolution work may be edited for length. Questions? Contact

igital maces af as oMiginal photagraphic pants us at 847.853.2354 or at brilliant@usbnc.org.

(no photocopies). Include your name, age, address, telephone number, and e-mail address. Al 7 Entries can be sent: on The Prizes

e By e-mail to brilliant@usbnc.org ). Compact digital point & shoot camera

(valued at about $125-$150 USD)

e At www.brilliantstarmagazine.org. Click the “Play” tab, and choose “Gallery.” Click

“Submit Your Art” and complete the form. an a ;

Choose the photo contest gallery. (We'll only ea) Brilliant Star's Super

post your first name, last initial, and age online.) “ee Cosmic Creativity Kit 7

e By mail to Brilliant Star, Unity in Diversity Photo Contest, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201

Brilliant Star's Incredible Intergalactic Creativity Kit

Images: Cameras by zolssa, bird by Oksana Vasilenko, ribbons by Alhovik, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 ¥* Brilliant Star 2 3 flags by Artistic Photo, pets by llike, friends by RyFlip �[Page 24]

JOSIE

HOME

ARCHIVES

Wednesday, Sept. 18, 5:35 p.m.

| had a blast doing my tae kwon do demo in gym today. It felt amazing! Ms. Jackson says my footwork is strong, and | should try out for soccer. | love soccer. What a great idea!

@~ 19 COMMENTS > MOST RECENT >

readya2rule: You're a joke, Josie. Stay off the soccer team, or you'll be sorry!

Josie: Whoa. Who are you, ready2rule? You just messing around to be funny?

Monday, Sept. 23, 9:20 p.m.

Been getting more h8ful messages from ready2rule. This person is for real. | told my parents and blocked whoever it is from my blog. It’s a mystery. Time to open “The Case of the Baffling Bully.” :(

@- 38 COMMENTS

Tuesday, Sept. 24, 6:12 p.m. Found a clue today. Readyzrule left a nasty note in my locker. So this bully goes to my school for sure. | told Mom, Dad, Ms. Jackson, and the principal. Eric and Aziz are going to start walking to school with Frieda and me. | don’t want to be a whiner, but you gotta ask for help when bullies are after you. Bullying must stop!

Who is r2r and what’s her (or his) deal with me? | felt pretty down about it. But after school, | said some prayers by the lake. Feeling calmer now.

| told you One 3 won't tell you

e and

again! keep YOu"

I i VY Dualy face away: vou

This is the note | got from the bully. ! have no clue who it is. Why does this person hate me? What did | do?

Whoever rar is must be unhappy— and really not want me on the soccer team. By the way, any of my tae kwon do peeps seen my belt at the studio? Can’t find it.

@~ 62 COMMENTS

Lake Lucien is awesome, and | love going there with Eric, Frieda, and Aziz. It’s sooo peaceful, with a cool waterfall and bridges.

@~ 55 COMMENTS

Wednesday, Sept. 25, 6:45 p.m. Aziz is dying to find the bully. He's from Jordan and his dad is Muslim, and he got bullied about that. He wanted to fight back, but not physically. It’s like in tae kwon do. You can be strong enough to avoid a fight.

Thursday, Sept. 26, 3:33 p.m.

Get this! On my way to class, some- one stuck out a foot and tripped me. On purpose! | almost wiped out. By the time | caught myself and turned around, | couldn’t see who it was. Bet it was the bully. And | got a glimpse of the shoes—lime green, orange, and blue. Clue #2!

@ 79 COMMENTS

Thursday, Sept. 26, 9:10 p.m. Unbelievable! At soccer tryouts today, | got pushed hard against the wall! It was ready2rule! | know because she called me the same names from the note | got on Tuesday. “I told you to stay away,” she snarled. Got to be r2r, right? Plus, | recognized her shoes. Before | could escape, Frieda ran over with Ms. Jackson. The bully’s identity is solved! Still a mystery: Why does she hate me so much?

Also, still can’t find my tae kwon do belt. Sheesh. More later.

@~ 95 COMMENTS > MOST RECENT >

Frieda: |’m so sorry that happened to you, Josie. It was really awful.

Josie: |’m so glad you were there, Frieda. Thanks for being a great friend.

24. Brilliant Star % SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013

�[Page 25]

> THE CASE OF THE BAFFLING BULLY

Friday, Sept. 27, 7:46 p.m. So Ms. Jackson called our parents in. We all talked about what’s been happening and why. Guess what? Rar said her older brother and sister bully her big time. Her parents were upset and said she should have spoken up sooner. They were mad about what she did to me, too. They weren’t sure what to do next. Ms. Jackson gave them the name of a family counselor. Rar is benched from playing soccer for now. To earn her spot back, she's gonna handle the team’s equipment. They made us shake hands, but she glared at me. |’m still a little nervous.

@~ 80 COMMENTS

Monday, Sept. 30, 7:50 p.m. Woohoo! | made the team! My new teammates are cool. While r2r moves our gear, | see her staring at me. Still.

@ 52 COMMENTS

Friday, Oct. 4, 4:35 p.m.

This week flew by. The school paper, tae kwon do, and now soccer. Still looking for my tae kwon do belt. Been using my old green belt, but | miss my blue one!

@-~ 23 COMMENTS

Monday, Oct. 7, 5:40 p.m.

| love writing for our school paper, The Global Citizen. My editor asked me to write an article about bullying and how to stop it. I’ll have to think hard about this.

@ 40 COMMENTS

Bird by Dianka Pyzhova, patterns by LittleLion Studio

Tuesday, Oct. 8, 7:29 p.m.

After soccer practice today, it started raining. Rar was lugging a huge bag of soccer balls, and she dropped a bunch of water bottles in the mud. | don’t know what came over me, but | ran over and picked them up. Then it really started pouring hard. We ran like crazy. Like a doofus, | fell flat on my face.

| thought she was gonna laugh. But no! She helped me up, and we ran for cover.

The cool thing is, when we got to the locker room, rar said, “Hey, I’m sorry about what | did to you. | lose my temper sometimes.” | asked why she didn’t like me. She said it was because | reminded her of her sister, who’s the best at everything. | told rar that her sister’s not the best if she’s a bully. | told her to come to tae kwon do club, because it helps me stay calm. She said maybe.

And get this. She reached into her locker and pulled out... my blue belt!

Another mystery solved!

@ 109 COMMENTS

SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013

wu = «ie el | Alp -“&- TEE ~ 1@ - --

ABOUT ME 3

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 I can

look for clues, please share. Or just say hey and tell me what you love to do.

I’m a 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

Brilliant Star 25

�[Page 26]SHINING LAMP

A Baha'i who served humanity W

ith much dread, Abu’l-Qasim Faizi walked to school every

day. It was the early 1900s, and his one-room school in Qum, Iran, was an awful place. The harsh teachers whipped students on the soles of their feet as punishment.

Fortunately, Faizi—as he became known—had a happy home. Around his teens, his life changed when his family moved to Tihran. He went to Tarbiyat Baha’i School, where the teachers inspired him, and he became a Baha'i.

Faizi attended the American University of Beirut, Lebanon. He traveled to Haifa, Israel, several times to visit Shoghi Effendi, who led the Baha’i Faith at the time. Shoghi Effendi welcomed Faizi like a brother. He urged Faizi to be different from others and not become attached to material things. Faizi loved those visits and once wrote, “I cannot tear myself away from here.”

Faizi earned his degree in education in 1933, and he hoped to teach at the Tarbiyat School. But due to religious prejudice, the Muslim government closed all of Iran’s Baha’i schools. Faizi got a high-paying job with an oil company, but he longed to be of greater service to humanity. He quit his job and moved to Najafabad, Iran, to teach about 400 Baha’i children. He set up classes in homes and went from house to house, teaching students with encouragement and enthusiasm. Faizi lived simply and spent his money on school supplies. He bought blank booklets, and in each one, he wrote a prayer in beautiful calligraphy.

ith radiance — arc eae

“He was just like a fireplace, you could get nice and warm by the spirit of Faizi,” said Amatu’l-Baha Ruhiyyih Khanum, the wife of Shoghi Effendi.

Baha'is were not allowed to publish Baha'i books, so older students made handwritten copies. Faizi stayed in Najafabad for over four years, training kids and teachers. He said they were “years full of spiritual upliftment, discipline and benefit.” In 1939, he married Gloria ‘Ala’i, whom he had met in Beirut.

When Shoghi Effendi asked

Baha’is to leave Iran to share the Baha’i teachings, Faizi and Gloria moved to the small island nation of Bahrain. Faizi worked as a teacher. They were the only Baha’is for years, until more moved there. Faizi guided the community with loving kindness as it grew. In 1957, Shoghi Effendi honored him as a Hand of the Cause of God. In this role, Faizi encouraged Baha'is and helped to teach and protect the Baha’i Faith.

When Shoghi Effendi passed away soon afterward, Faizi moved to Haifa to help guide the global Baha’i community. He served as a Persian and English translator and wrote books and articles about the Faith, as well as novels. Gloria and their two children joined him later.

The Universal House of Justice—the governing body of the international Baha’i community—was elected in 1963. Faizi traveled to dozens of countries at its request, giving talks and advising the Baha’is. He said, “Servitude is the only path of success we can ever tread ... The path of servitude gives us a way to explore our own hearts and souls. . .”

On November 19, 1980, Faizi passed away in Haifa. The House of Justice praised his “SHINING EXAMPLE” and assured prayers for “HIS NOBLE RADIANT SOUL.”

26

Brilliant Star % SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 �[Page 27]YA a? SN yee! - O72 Fun in Numberville °° es

“4 ant to develop a fun superpower? How about math? In your daily life, you flex your math muscles With the power of math, you can change the when you double a recipe for your favorite cookies. world. Math leads to super discoveries and inventions. You can find out how many points your team needs to The calculations used in geometry, physics, and win the championship. Or figure out how much money

computer science have allowed us to build skyscrapers, to save for a fundraiser or a new bike. Be a math hero, send satellites into orbit, and create the Internet. Who _ today and into the future! Embrace your inner calculator f knows what the future holds? and discover new ways to use the power of math.

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ETT - = = eS bea ee) a ~<a, ny “| GO0ELE “GO0EOL” AND eae | : || SEE IT’S AREALLY BIG

Write a three-digit number (all different digits), putting the numbers in order from

largest to smallest:

Then write the same digits S WITH THE SAME NUMBER OF LETTERS AS b] THE NUMBER ITSELF. WHICH ONE IS IT?

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from smallest to largest:

Subtract the smaller three- Se , 9) MULTIPLY ANY NUMBER BY

digit number from your : first three-digit number: Aa a $4 Fr ee ME, THEN ADD THE DierTs

EQUAL 9! CIF YOU GET Now put that number MORE THAN 9, AVP

in reverse order:

Add these two numbers

and write the total:

Tell your friend that you know the exact answer, no matter what number he or she started with: 1,089!

Prove it by showing your hidden slip of paper.

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SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 % Brilliant Star 27

�[Page 28]

'§ CORNER

~ Look for clues throughout the magazine.

COSMO

2. An important healthy habit for your journey through life. (p. 7) 4. Your real self is your .(p. 4) 6. Next time you're not sure what to do, use your creativity and . (p. 29) 7. Abu'l-Oasim Faizi said, "The ___ of servitude gives us a way to explore our own hearts and souls..." (p. 26) _ S.." (p. 8) 9. When different people, creatures, or things exist together in peace, that's unity in . (p. 23) 12. After you take steps to solve a problem, focus on the fer 2 alee) 14. Nelson shared a Nobel Peace Prize for ending legal discrimination in his country. (p. 11) 15. With the power of (p. 27)

8. In Farsi, Haft-seen means

___, you can change the world.

FROM OUR MAILBOX

"[Brilliant Star] helps me, as it relaxes me, especially the idea it gave once

about having an attitude of gratitude. It often helps me calm myself down!...

| like the comics, [and |] always learn more about the environment. | would also like to learn more about Baha'is around the world."

—Kevin Agazi, age 9, Virginia, U.S.

WHAT DID THE MATH

BOOK SAY TO HIS. FOR HELPING ME SOLVE § BEST FRIENDS? MY PROBLEMS!

19. Amahn and Carmel admire this virtue. (pp. 12-13)

Ze aS. YOU CUYS ARE AWESOME

"ACROSS N

1. Lots of life's moments are magical when you're of them. (p. 22)

3. Josie says tracking this down is like a treasure hunt! (p. 25)

5 strengths can help you face your fears, stay calm, and think positively. (p. 2) 10. Staying and keeping a positive attitude

helps you get more done and feel less stress. (p. 5)

11. The Arctic___ makes the longest migration of any animal. (p. 11)

13. Being ina family is like being ona . (p. 9)

16. Amin would like to serve at the Baha'i World Centre in _ Israel. (p. 13)

17. On the Internet, before you click, . (p. 17)

18. From her youth, Shabnam Mogharabi longed to ____ the world by telling stories. (p. 18)

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

Page 10: Violent V.— Peaceful P.; Ol’ Grumpy G—Cheerful C.; Funking F.—Studious S.; Lazy L.-Diligent D.; Unfit E— Healthy H.; Messy M.— Orderly 0.; Fatigued F. — Rested R.; Stressed- Out S. — Calming K.; Distracted D— Focused F.

Page 11: South Africa, Giant Pacific Octopus

Page 2: Camera at CR, carabiner at BL, chalk bag at CR, first aid kit at TR, knot guide at TC, lantern at TR, radio at BR, pulley at CL, water bottle at TL

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

Page 7: 1) faith, 2) integrity, 3) learning, 4) setting goals, 5) being positive,

6) resilience, 7) humor, 8) physical fitness,

9) nutrition, 10) time management,

11) handling stress, 12) managing money, 13) organization, 14) citizenship, 15) justice,

16) leadership, 17) service, 18) sharing, 19) communication, 20) teamwork

Page 17: 1) bullied, 2) passwords, 3) screen, 4) forward, 5) personal, 6) Limit, 7) Check, 8) files, 9) online, 10) cool

Page 22: 1) wonder, 2) contentment, 3) friendship, 4) wisdom, 5) mindfulness, 6) gratitude, 7) appreciate, 8) humor

Page 27: #4=four, #11=1,234,321

28

Brilliant Star % SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 �[Page 29]

challenged by tough homework, trouble with bullies, or a need to raise money. You can dream tasks, such as drill, rotate, or stack. But what if some- up ideas, brainstorm with family and friends, or do thing breaks or gets in the way? When a robot hits an research online. You can break big projects into small obstacle, it’s usually stuck. steps. And it helps to say prayers for assistance. Scientists are working on new robots that can adapt Next time you're not sure what to do, use your to challenges—like humans do. We have amazing brains human tools of creativity and flexibility to help you that face problems and figure out solutions. Maybe you're decide which way to turn. ————— eT” ‘if Ready for a challenge? Help Repairobot get to the workshop. Use a token to chart his path. When you I mw land ona spiral, make one 90-degree turn to the RIGHT on RED spirals and LEFT on GREEN. Go straight © but don’t double back on your path. "

over or under bridges. You can land on a spiral more than once,

obots help make cars, computers, toys, and much more. They're programmed to do specific

@ © &RoO EXO)

em |

|

Y\ 0 | Fi lee! 7h |

4

SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2013 * Brilliant Star 29 �[Page 30]= serif hel Ge

Reach for the Stars* September/ October 2013 * Volt 4

“AN AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONA! ‘SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES

Explore our new website WWW. Drilliantstarmagazine.org

�

Brilliant Star/Volume 45/Issue 4/Text

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