Brilliant Star/Volume 46/Issue 2/Text

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[Page 0]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: Claudius Adebayo « Yazan Ardekany + Emilia Ataian Nancie Battaglia « Lisa Blecker + Dr. Rick D'Eath

David Michael Howarth - Phillip Lawrence Ari Levine Bruno Mars « Doug Marshall - Luthando Matolo

Bill McKibbon « Matthew Miller « Iman Mollaian

Rosie Mustakova-Possardt + Donna Price « Samiya Rana Jalil Rouhanifard « Paymon Rouhanifard » Sonali Schroder

ART AND PHOTO CREDITS Original illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted

By Lisa Blecker: Photos for p. 6; coloring for pp. 27, 29

By Foad Ghorbani: Art for pp. 4, 24

Historical photos courtesy National Baha'i Archives, unless noted

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS By Amy Renshaw: 2, 4, 9, 1, 14, 22

By Susan Engle: 12, 17,18, 20, 25, 28, 29 By Annie Reneau: 3, 8, 10, 21, 23, 26, 27 By Lisa Blecker: 6

By Donna Price: 5, 7, 1, 14,16, 24

‘SUBSCRIPTION RATES AND RENEWALS To order or renew a subscription, contact Baha'i Subscriber Service: Toll-free: 1.800.999.9019 / E-mail: subscription@usbne. 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 ‘Alcontent inthis magazine is copyrighted by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bad's of the U.S. or by individual contributors. For permission to copy or translate material, contact: Rights and Permissions, Brilliant Star, +1283 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Teachers may photocopy pages in limited quanttes for classroom use. “Brilliant Star’ and issue date must be present on all copies, and proper credit given to the copyright aver.

INTERNET RESOURCES AND INTERNET SAFETY When internet resources are provided as references, we make every effort to choose reliable websites, but we do nat endorse or account for all content these websites. We urge caution and parental guidance when using the Intemet For more information about Internet safety, visi 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'i 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'lldh’s eldest son, ‘Abdu'l-Baha, interpreted His teachings and led the Baha'i community after Bahé’u'llah’s passing. Today, Bahd’is work to bring love and justice to the world, and end prejudice and discrimination of all kinds.

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Baha’u’llah’s Life: Mission of Peace How one man overcame prejudice against Baha'u'llah

Nur’s Nook Make a string heART and build ties of unity.

Riley’s Rainforest In person or on the Internet, bullying must stop!

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 62 Will the Erasers get control of global energy?

Maya’s Mysteries How much do you know about gender equality?

Stargazer: Paymon Rouhanifard Fighting for his students and their education

Treble Chef's Music Café Is peace in the future of our planet?

Shining Lamp: Patricia Locke She stood up for the rights of American Indians.

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

aMAZEing ADVENTURE Find your way through the symphony of diversity.

ISSN 0884-3695 [Page 1]Stars of One Heaven Light up the night sky with your virtues.

How Open-Minded Are You?

i ideas? Are you curious and open to new ideas? iihersares ponpeerenrillion

people on our amazing planet! Every one of us has basic rights to things like housing, safety, education, and freedom. Yet millions are denied these rights because of their gender, religion, or ethnic group,

What Do You Say?

Speak up with patience and confidence.

Escape the Pens of Prejudice Are stereotypes hogwash?

Stopping Prejudice

Unscramble cures for discrimination. or due to some other prejudice. These injustices are a barrier to peace on Earth.

Dressing for Diversity We can help bring change by standing

Respecting our differences is always in style. up for those who face prejudice. We can

also look at ourselves to see if we have unfair thoughts about others, then take action to overcome them.

More Monsters of the Mind

They can jump out when you least expect it.

Unity in Diversity In this issue, explore Discover what these friends have in common. how to make the

world a better place Global Floral Festival by celebrating our

Match each blossom to its home country. human family’s

Malala: Champion of Education diversity. Take a How Malala Yousafzai changed tragedy into triumph quiz on how open- minded youare. Create Crossing the Creek ties of unity with cool Xd ney lien Leek Cites tk? string art. Practice speaking up about

's Cultural Canvas justice. Get tips for dealing with bullying.

Paint a picture of what makes you unique. And meet Paymon Rouhanifard, who's passionate about creating better schools

You Can Do Anything to help kids reach their dreams.

Don't be stopped by stereotypes! When you're a good friend to everyone,

you spread joy near and far. So pass it on!

Lier LOVE. geiiANT ATAR*

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[Page 2]tars in the night sky can look like pinpoints of white light, each one about the same as the next. But if you could get closer to the stars, you'd see that they come in different sizes, temperatures, and colors. The most important star to us—the sun—gives life to Earth with its heat and light.

Like stars, people’s qualities are clearer when you get

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Stars or One

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close to them. At school, kids may separate into groups or cliques. But if you look past those barriers and make friends with different kids, you may find you like the same books, movies, or games. You might face similar challenges. Your new friends may even help you develop new interests and learn more about yourself. The whole world looks brighter when we all let our best selves shine.

ae Biggs In this night sky, Connect the letters of virtues that can help you reach out to others. The letters are connected by lines going in any direction: up, down, forward, backward, or diagonally. You can use a letter in more than one word. But don’t use a letter more than once in the same word.

Courtesy

Friendliness Hospitality P<; Love Respect

Sensitivity (

• YN GP Yin

s * o « ~ * D A A ——s Yb \ So “ A~I™ ® » i .

[Page 3]A Brief ; Timeline |

The hife of Baha'u'llah

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

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

1844 Recognizes the Bab as anew Messenger of God

aabe 2. Faire | Imprisonment in the “Black Pit” of Tihran

1853-1863

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

Declares Divine Mission as Prophet-Founder of the Baha'i Faith

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

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

Isis Ses) Finally free to live in countryside homes of Mazra‘ih and then Bahji, outside ‘Akka

Baha'u'llah passes away at Bahji.

Baha’u'llah’s hife: Mission of Peace A Change of Heart

ahmud was a 10-year-old boy who

lived in ‘Akka, Israel, long ago. One

day, a wise old man told Mahmud

about a vision he'd had. The man said that the next Messenger of God would come to ‘Akka when Mahmud was an adult. The Messenger would speak Persian, and He would live in a room at the top of a long flight of stairs.

When Mahmud grew up, he became respected in the community as a religious leader.

One day, Mahmud learned that a prisoner, Baha’u'llah, had arrived in ‘Akka. Though Baha'u'llah had done nothing wrong, the authorities wanted to stop His Baha'i teachings, and they convinced people that He was evil. Mahmud was angry that Baha'u'llah had been sent to his city. Hatred poisoned his heart. He wanted so desperately to rid ‘Akka of a person he considered “evil” that he decided to kill Baha'u'llah.

One day, Mahmud hid a weapon under his cloak and went to the prison where

Baha'u'llah was held. But when the guard announced Mahmud, Baha'u'llah said, “Tell him to cast away the weapon and then he may come in.” Mahmud was stunned. He was sure no one had seen his weapon. He turned and left, confused.

Shaken, but still determined, Mahmud returned to the prison empty-handed. He was strong, and he decided he could kill Baha'u'llah with his bare hands. Once again, the guard announced his visit. This time, Baha'u'llah replied, “Tell him to purify his heart first and then he may come in.” Mahmud was so perplexed that he left without seeing Baha'u'llah.

Later, Mahmud had a dream about the old man he had met as a child. He remembered the man’s mysterious vision. After his dream, Mahmud returned to the prison. He met with Baha’u'llah’s son, ‘Abdu’l- Baha, whose words changed him. This time Mahmud was brought to Baha’u'llah’s cell at the top of a long flight of stairs. Overwhelmed by Baha’u'llah’s presence, Mahmud fell to his knees. He became a devoted Baha'i for the rest of his life. He helped Baha'is enter and leave ‘Akka to visit Baha'u'llah.

Mahmud was one of many people who approached Baha'u'llah as an enemy, but then grew to admire Him. Though authorities tried to stop His influence, no one could prevent Baha’u'llah’s love and wisdom from changing people's hearts.

These are the reported words of Baha'u'llah and may not be exact quotations

VOL.46/NO.2+M/32014 % Brilliant Star 3 [Page 4]HOW -MINDED OPEN YOU?

ave you ever been asked to “keep an open

mind” about something? Having an open mind

is like opening a door to new ideas. You're willing to try new things and consider other people's points of view. Without an open mind, prejudice can sneak in. Strong prejudice toward people who look, talk, believe, or act differently has caused violence and the loss of human rights.

We all have some prejudices, even if we don’t

“We must lay aside all prejudice—whether it be religious, racial, political or patriotic; we must become the cause of the unification of the human race.” —‘Abdu'l-Baha

realize it. They can keep us from making friends and treating others with fairness and respect. But we can overcome them. If you hear about a new idea and feel your mind starting to close, tell yourself, “Wait! I want to learn more before I decide.”

Staying curious and avoiding quick judgments doesn’t mean you'll agree with everyone or like everything you try. But you can have a lot of fun exploring our wide, wonderful world.

Are you open to new idea: e

5

1) I enjoy learning about diverse people, countries, and cultures.

Often = 3 © Sometimes = 2 © Rarely =1

2) 1 think everybody has valuable ideas to share with the world. Often = 3 © Sometimes = 2 © Rarely =1

3) I respect the different world religions and their beliefs. Often = 3 © Sometimes = 2 © Rarely =1

4) When I hear someone joke 8 about or insult people of a certain race, I speak up. Often = 3 © Sometimes = 2 © Rarely =1

When I disagree with someone,

I listen and try to understand his or her point of view.

Often = 3 © Sometimes = 2 © Rarely =1

I like to travel, see new places, and meet new people. Often = 3 © Sometimes = 2 © Rarely =1

When I meet a new kid in school who looks or talks differently from me, I’m friendly and welcoming. Often = 3 © Sometimes = 2 © Rarely =1

I try to learn about world events and think about how they affect my family or community.

Often = 3 © Sometimes = 2 © Rarely =1

9) I'm kind and respectful to people with disabilities. Often = 3 © Sometimes = 2 © Rarely =1

10 Ifa kid is teased or bullied, I try to be a friend to him or her.

Often = 3 © Sometimes = 2 @ Rarely =1

1 I'll try new food, music, and other things, even if they’te different from what I usually like. Often = 3 © Sometimes = 2 © Rarely =1

12 I get the facts and make up my own mind, rather than just going along with what others say.

Often = 3 © Sometimes = 2 @ Rarely =1

SCORING MY TOTAL

36-28 points:

27-20 points: You're keeping your mind open most of the time. Look for ways to let in even more new ideas.

19-12 points: The doors of your mind can be more open. Choose some tips from the quiz and try them out.

4 Brilliant Star % vol.46/NO.2 + m/3 2014 [Page 5]a @ WHAT po YOU Say?

@ f you see someone being treated unfairly, you | probably want to speak up. But sometimes you may not know what to say.

Here’s a tip: think ahead about how to respond. If someone says, “Look at those losers,” you can say, “Come on, don’t be mean!” or “That could really hurt their feelings.”

Friends may not realize their words are unkind. You can try being compassionate: “That doesn’t sound like you. Are you having a rough day?”

Practicing with your friends can help you stay calm and confident. When you're patient and respectful, you can get your message across without anger. In these three examples, what would you say?

WRITE WHAT YOU WouLp Say:

[_] DON’T PICK HIM. HE’LL JUST SLOW US DOWN ON THE COURT. EVERYBODY = =——— 4d ] _ HAVE YOU SEEN DESERVES A CHANCE = 4 HIM PLAY? HE [ge TO PLAY. HE’S A y = 7 | \ CAN SHOOT! NICE Guy, TOO. by fe ' y | WRITE WHAT YOU WouLD Say: —— ~ MY FAITH HELPS ME | WE’VE GOT TO WORK YOU BELIEVE IN GOV? THAT’S CRAZY. WHAT’S THE POINT, UNDERSTAND WHAT [oe] TOGETHER TO MAKE WHEN SO MUCH WAR AN? BAD STUFF HAPPENS IN THE WORLD? GOES ON IN THE THINGS BETTER. WORLD AND HOW I WANT TO KNOW WHAT CAN BE HELPFUL. MY FAITH SAYS ABOUT PEACE AND JUSTICE?

WHY? BECAUSE THEY LOOK NICE, THEY'RE BLACK AND AND IT’LL BE FUN WE'RE WHITE? COME TO MAKE NEW

ON, LES MAKE [OR | FRIENDS THIS YEAR. SOME NEW FRIENDS.

WRITE WHAT YOU WouLD Say:

Get more practice at www.brilliantstarmagazine.org

VOL.46/NO.2+M/32014 % Brilliant Star

5 [Page 6]Tying Our Hedrts Together

“The most important principle of divine philosophy is the oneness of the world of humanity. . . the tie of love which blends human hearts.” —‘Abdu’l-Baha

Nurs NOOK |

nart, it can be challenging to get different colors, shapes, _If this happens, just relax, be kind, be respectful, and be and textures to work in harmony. But when you do, the —_-yourself. If it turns out that you make a mistake, a sincere

artwork is amazing. apology goes a long way. In life, it's sometimes hard for diverse people to be united. It The diversity of humanity is like a colorful masterpiece. can take courage, patience, and determination to make new — Whether you plan an interfaith prayer party or simply introduce friends with people who look, think, or act differently from yourself to someone new, you can help tie hearts together.

you. You may feel out of place, accidentally hurt someone’s Make the string heart below. Give it as a gift or hang it at feelings, or feel lost when you don’t understand something. home to remind you to create more ties of love and unity.

String HEART Yowll Three sheets 6" (15.2 cm) square thin foam board « tacky glue « 9" (22.9 cm)

Need square felt « double-sided tape - pen + 5" (12.7 cm) square paper « scissors « PEO iter. about 30, 34" (1.9 cm) nails « thimble + 8 yards (7.3 m) or more yarn or

1. Glue foam boards to make one thick string in several colors « 5" (12.7 cm) ribbon « 5%" (14 cm) square cardboard board. Coat top with glue and place

glue side down, in center of felt.

4 Draw a dot at both ends of crease. 7 aaa mm CREATING i i ~ ) UNITY WITH Continue drawing dots around heart, HEARTS AND spaced about 1/2" (1.3 cm) apart. CRAETS!

2. Atcomers, pinch excess felt flat. Trim excess

and glue felt to wrap snugly around sides

and back. Reinforce with tape, ifneeded. 5 Tape heartto center of felt. With thimble, carefully push a nail into felt next to

| each dot, leaving 1/2" (1.3 cm) of nail

sticking out. Remove taped heart.

7 Knot yarn to a nail to start, end, or

e change a color. Wrap yarn tightly one around each nail, in random order, returning to each nail several times. 3 Fold paper in half. From fold, draw half heart Trim ends. Now it’s ready to hang! shape that fills page. Cut out and unfold. . . 6 Make loop for hanging by taping ribbon fn

a ends to back. Glue cardboard to back ¥ | to cover any nail tips. Let dry. =z

6 Brilliant Star # vol.46/NO.2+M/J 2014 Share a photo of your finished work, and we may post it online! [Page 7]ESCAPE the PE

—z———————————— eee eee.

JM ave you heard the phrase “sweating like a pig”? i Not fair! Pigs don’t have effective sweat glands, so they barely sweat at all. They roll in mud to cool off and protect their skin from sun and insects. Pigs are often considered greedy, but they don’t overeat more than other animals. They're smart problem solvers, too. In one experiment, they used mirrors to discover hidden food. In another, they learned to play a computer game!

TIITTTIIITT:

of PREJUDIC

Pigs can surprise us. They don’t always match their stereotypes. Making assumptions about pigs keeps you from seeing them as they really are. That happens with people, too. Jumping to conclusions due to someone's gender, culture, religion, age—or for any reason—isn'’t fair.

Embracing diversity makes life richer and more fun. When we root out stereotypes, we can break free of the pens of prejudice.

In this playful pen, find nine pigs with lots of personality.

CURIOUS CUTHBURT

CLEVER CARVENA

FRIENDLY ACTWE FROLO ARLO

LISTENING LEXIA NANTA

STUrIOUS ‘SUNY:

NURTURING PLAYFUL. TY

PAFKO TULLY

VOL.46/NO.2+M/J2014 ¥ Brilliant Star 7 [Page 8]"a RiLeEv’s RAIN

FOREST

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

essie walks nervously to the bus stop, feeling her stomach tighten. Will the girl who bullied her yesterday be on the bus? Her heart pounds. Maybe I should just stay home sick, she thinks.

Jessie isn’t alone. On average, about 28% of U.S. kids say they’ve been bullied. Whether it's repeated name-calling, rumors, or hurting someone physically, bullying is a serious problem. The stress it causes can even impact health. Kids who are bullied are more likely to report headaches, stomachaches, sleep problems, anxiety, and depression. And if bullying goes on for a long time, health issues can continue into adulthood.

It’s important to speak up any time you experience or see bullying. Sometimes it helps to look in the eye of a kid who’s being mean and say in a calm, firm voice, “Stop.” Other times, laughing it off or walking

Curiosity Canopy

HELP STOP BULLYING,

End Bullying!

4 r

away is enough to make the person back down. But if harassment continues, ask for help from a parent, teacher, or other trusted adult.

Bullying doesn’t only happen in person. Cyberbullying takes place online and in text messages. It can be just as tough to deal with because it may happen at any time and can reach a wide audience. Sometimes it's hard to know who's doing it, too. Kindness is just as important online as it is in real life. Talk to a parent or teacher if you see embarrassing or cruel messages or photos.

If we all work together to stop bullying, the world will be a happier, healthier, and safer place for everyone.

‘a or False? Kids who are bullying usually won’t stop if someone speaks up.

False. In a study, when bystanders intervened in a

bullying situation, the bullying kid backed down within 10 seconds over half of the time. If you see bullying, speak up and get help from a trusted adult.

8 Brilliant Star ¥% vol.46/NO.2 + M/a 2014

Explore & Soar: Good Friends? Check!

A. your friendships fun and healthy? If you can answer yes to these questions, you're probably in good shape. Think of a friend. Do you...

D+ Look forward to seeing him or her? Or Know you can trust him or her?

O Treat each other with respect, even when you disagree?

Or Communicate kindly and honestly?

Or Feel comfortable being yourself when you're together?

Or Appreciate each other's differences?

Or Share your toys and games with generosity and fairness?

Or Laugh and have fun together?

Signs by Lurin [Page 9]Stopping Prejudice

“All war and conflict . .. has been due to some form of prejudice—whether religious, racial or national ... prejudice is a destroyer of the foundations of the world of humanity...” —‘Abdu’l-Baha

you wouldn’t be good at something, when people are treated unfairly because they belong toa

without giving you a chance to try? certain group. If you won'tlet a new girl join a game just It can hurt when people make assumptions, because of her background, you're discriminating. instead of getting to know the real you. Because of stereotypes, prejudice, and

Making a judgment without all the facts is discrimination, many people don’t have fair access

prejudice. If you meet someone from another to housing, education, jobs, and other basic human country and assume that she can’t speak your rights. Prejudice even leads to violence and war. language, that’s prejudice. It’s often based on t These are big problems, but we can all help. stereotypes—generalizations about people. If you think Try the tips below to promote justice and make allimmigrants speak poorly, you're following a stereotype. friends with people who are different from you.

W hat if other kids left you out or told you that \ One harmful result of prejudice is discrimination—

Unscramble the words to find Ways to Stop pr ice and explore diversity.

-

‘G. °

@ Pay attention to your thoughts when you see someone © Gotoa(SNIGTORP)

© WINTIE) someone from a

different background to hang out with you.

@ In(viSEOM)_ on TVor in books, watch for stereotypes.

different from you. (MLISE)__.- ___»___ event for athletes with disabilities. and say hello. @siwHporR). ata @ Speak up for (CITUSJE)__ friend’s place of prayer. when you hear a prejudiced comment about people of a different culture, religion, age, or gender. @Ask someone to(ETCAH)_— you

how to cook a traditional dish from another culture. @ Sit with newkids at(HLNCU)_ =

@ (NRLEA)__ _ __ ___ ___ some greetings and phrases in other languages, and try them out.

© Check out concerts or festivals featuring different (CURLUTES)__-- Ls

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 VOL.46/NO.2+M/J2014 %& Brilliant Star 9 [Page 10]Dressing for Diversity

“As the body of man needeth a garment to clothe it, so the body of mankind must needs be adorned with the mantle of justice and wisdom.” —Baha’u'llah

AW) a hot desert land, what you wear is avital part © Sometimes prejudice causes people to make unfair WW of your daily life. Your clothes help protect you judgments about those who look or dress differently. from sun, wind, and cold. They may also show something That may lead to bullying or other unjust treatment. about your culture or religion. We may wear different garments, but we're all human. Like diverse clothing, people’s beliefs and ways of life No matter where we're from or what kind of clothing we vary from place to place. Honoring and respecting these choose, everyone has the right to live in peace.

W hether you live in a chilly northern climate or differences is important to building unity and justice.

These kids are talking about their homelands. Write each kid’s number next to the name of his or her country.

MY ISLAND COUNTRY IN THE 2 IN CASABLANCA, MY CITY IN MY SHIRT AND PANTS, CALLED = UAMBO! MY DRESS IS MADE 4

SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN HAS NORTH BFRICA, SOME MUSLIM. KURTA AND PAJAMA, ARE MADE = FROMA KANGA, ALAREE TROPICAL WEATHER. WE WOMEN AN? GIRLS CHOOSE OF COTTON OR SILK IN SUMMER = RECTANGULAR CLOTH WITH WEAR A COMFORTABLE TO WEAR THE HIJAB, OR AND WOOL OR HEAVY SILK IN BOLD DESIENS. KANGAS

WRAP CALLED A LAVA-LAVA. HEADSCARE, FOR MOVESTY. WINTER. I SPEAK HINDI. OFTEN HAVE SAYINGS OR

i i BLESSINGS IN SWAHILI. —— THE PLAID PATTERN, OR TARTAN, OF O sore vesien oF mv 7 AVINELE DRESS CAN HAVE

MY KILT CAN REVEAL WHAT REGION MAYAN AUIPIL TELLS ABOUT MY HUNDREDS OF JINELES ANZ

OR CLAN I BELONG TO. BAGPIPE VILLAGE AND MY BELIEFS. MY CAN BE USED FOR A HEALING ‘6 MUSIC IS POPULAR INMNY COUNTRY. _ COUNTRY BORVERS MEXICO. DANCE. MY OUIBWE TRIBE LIVES NEAR LAKE SUPERIOR.

G4" 2 earth poplin ge

Ls OTN »

Ui AMO - \ N

10 Brilliant Star % Vol.46/NO.2 + M/J 2014 Spanish: Hola= Hello ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 ~ ‘Swahili: Jambo = Hello [Page 11]OUR CONNECTIONS

Rivers are like Earth’s arteries,

pumping fresh, life-giving

water to billions of people. Civilization began along riverbanks around 10,000 years ago. About 177 major rivers, including the Nile, Amazon, Yangtze, and Mississippi, are vital to our ecosystems. They irrigate farmland, nourish nature, provide transportation, and supply energy through hydropower. For the health of the planet and its creatures, we need to keep rivers free of pollution.

Images: Nile River by Frontpage, insect by yanikap, McKibben by Nancie Bataglia, Temple by Otic of Development and Construction of the Temple, birds by Alucard2100

» - Va 4,” wee

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?

Insects don’t have lungs. Oxygen enters ‘) their bodies through tiny holes called spiracles.

euse Challenge

How many times can you reuse something this week? Bring your own shopping bag, pack lunch in a reusable container, or check out a book from the library.

PROTECTING OUR PLANET ,

en is passionate about urging people around the world to speak out on climate change. He’s written a dozen books and co-founded the group 350.org, which is in 188 countries. He won the 2013 Gandhi Peace Prize and says, “It’s very important that an interfaith voice —Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Baha'i, Hindu, and Native American—is taking action... .”

i Pr. fip 2 The bright color of these water birds comes from their diet, which includes crustaceans like red crabs. The national bird of Trinidad and Tobago, they're

very social and form huge flocks that can number in the thousands. Fill in the blanks to find their name:

P y E

CAR ET IBI E

11

VOL.46/NO.2+M/J2014 % Brilliant Star [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: 12 | live in: Colorado, U.S.

| want to be: A lawyer or doctor

Virtue | admire most: Respectfulness 4 Hobbies or sports:

I like to play soccer,

swim, read and write, and play piano

Favorite Baha’ activities: Prayers and junior youth class

Place I'd love to visit: The Shrine of the Bab in [Haifa,] Israel

If | were a world leader,

to stop prejudice:

I would have people from. different backgrounds ... Work together in unity.

Why it’s important to have friends from other cultures: To understand each other’s differences...

If someone tells me | can only do certain things because I'ma girl or boy:

[['d] show them examples of ... other boys and girls ... Weare all like one.

If | get teased or feel left out, I: [Tell] my feelings ...toa trusted person, and pray

Ifa friend tells a joke

that’s racist or makes fun

of my gender or religion: [I'd] ask... why they are trying to show... each other’s differences and explain... my faith and background.

a

Age: 12 y

Ilive in: Macau 5 4

| want to be: Structural engineer

Virtue | admire most: Generosity

Hobbies or sports: Tennis, collect[ing] gems, playing violin and piano, sailing... Nintendo Wii, playing with my hamster Favorite Baha’/ activities: Doing Breezes of Confir- mation book with the junior youth in Beijing ... junior youth classes ... Baha'i activities on

• holy days

If | were a world leader, to stop prejudice:

I would tell people to

treat each other fairly and show kindness to everyone they see.

_—

Age: 12 live in: North Carolina, U.S.

| want to be: Textile designer

Virtue | admire most: Kindness

Hobbies or sports:

Yoga, hula dancing, art

Favorite animal or pet Elephants

| like to help people by: Participating in service projects in my community

lf someone tells me | can

only do certain things because I'm a girl or boy:

I would say “no” because we are all the same.

If get teased or feel left out, |: Talk to the teacher

If a friend tells a joke that’s racist or makes fun of my gender or religion: I would tell him not to say that, because it’s insulting and it hurts.

An ice cream flavor that would encourage unity: Justice Cream... chocolate mixed with vanilla and strawberry

If | were a world leader,

to stop prejudice:

I would make everyone learn about different cultures and races and... make friends...

Why it’s important to have friends from other cultures: You... learn about the world!

If | get teased or feel left out, |: Talk to my close friends...

Ifa friend tells a joke that’s racist or makes fun of my gender or religion:

I would tell them that’s not nice or fair, because someone could make a joke that’s mean to you.

An ice cream flavor that would encourage unity: Swirled Neapolitan... vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, but you would mix them

all together...!

12

Brilliant Star # voL.46/NO.2 + M/J 2014 [Page 13]Age: 11 I live in: California, U.S. Iwant to be: A lawyer

Virtues | admire most: Compassion and honesty

Hobbies or sports: Musical theatre and soccer

Favorite Baha’i activity: Devotionals*

Favorite animal or pet: Elephants

Place I'd love to visit: Loch Ness, Scotland

Why it’s important to have friends from other cultures: We... learn about different ways of life

... [and] see issues from a person of another race’s point of view...

| like to help people by: Cheering them up...

Age: 9 | live in: Swaziland !want to be: An actor

Virtues | admire most: Kindness and creativity

Hobbies or sports: Writing, drawing, and building

Favorite Baha’ activity: Feast

x

If| were a world leader

to stop prejudice:

[I'd] give people of differ- ent races high positions of power, so that they would be respected.

Ifsomeone tells me | can only do certain things because I’m a girl or boy:

I would tell them that boys and girls have equal capabilities, and any girl can do what any boy can.

If | get teased or feel left out, |: Find... one of my friends

that was not involved in the teasing, and hang out with them instead

If someone tells me | can only do certain things because I’m a girl or boy:

It doesn’t matter what they say.

If | get teased or feel left out, |: Meditate

If a friend tells a joke

that’s racist or makes fun of my gender or religion:

[I] tell him that wasn’t

“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!”

Age: 10

I live in:

British Columbia, Canada

| want to be: Architect

Virtue | admire most: Truthfulness

Hobbies or sports: Inventing things and redesigning items to make them more useful; curling, hockey, guitar

Favorite Baha’/ activities:

Children’s classes and...

Nineteen Day Feast**

Place I'd love to visit: The International Archives Building in Haifa, [Israel]

Why it’s important to have friends from other cultures: Because then there are no “other” cultures. Everyone is together.

If | get teased or feel left out, |:

Go and volunteer my time somewhere useful instead...

mea’,

A. If | were a world leader,

to stop prejudice:

[I'd] invent a robot that emits happy and loving frequencies and deploy them in troubled areas ... [I'd] work with other leaders to . . . [educate]

x

every person in the world

... to eliminate prejudice.

If someone tells me | can only do certain things because I'm a girl or boy:

What?! Doing things well

is based on learning and developing your capacity.

Ifa friend tells a joke

that’s racist or makes fun of my gender or religion:

I just tell them, “Hey, that’s... prejudiced... I’m not okay with that.”

1, If you're age 7-14, go to www. brilliantstarmagazine.org

, ; very nice. Places I'd love to visit:

Hawaii, Florida, California, Australia

An ice cream flavor that would encourage unity: THE FRIENDSHIP. It would taste like

mint and chocolate.

like to help people by: Cheering them up

If | were a world leader,

to stop prejudice:

[I'd] make a law that... everyone has freedom.

Why it’s important to have friends from other cultures: Ijust enjoy friendships.

“Devotionals are gatherings where people pray and read sacred writings. “Nineteen Day Feasts are Bahd' gatherings with prayers, consultation, and fellowship

VOL.46/NO.2+M/J2014 % Brilliant Star

and choose “Explore,” then “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 the signed form, 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 copie: low-resolution digital images, or copyright- ” Ys protected images (like school portraits).

13 [Page 14]q

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14 Brilliant Star % voL.46/NO.2 + M/J 2014 [Page 15]THIS SUPERHERO fi] STUFF IS SCARY IN REAL LIFE!

BAXTER 770 IT!

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WE CAN STOP THE BOTS, BUT THE ONLY WAY TO STOP THE INTERNAL BOMB |S TO DRAIN THE POWER.

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TO RUSH IN NOW.

I MUST EET TO THOSE CAVE SYMBOLS BEFORE THE CAVES CRUMBLE TO PIECES!

VOL.46/NO.2+M/J2014 % Brilliant Star [Page 16]“The world of humanity has two wings — one is women and the other men. | 4 Not until both wings are equally developed can the bird fly.". —‘Abdu’l-Baha

( TWO WINGS

Nees and animals are so amazing! Someday, can’t drive. There’s no country where women have

I’m going to be a scientist to help save wildlife. true equality in all areas of life and society.

An ornithologist gave a talk at school about her Like two wings of a bird, both boys and girls work with endangered birds. She’s so inspiring! must be strong and have the same opportunities. I I’m glad I can go to school and follow my look for equality in my community, and in books, dreams. It’s sad that some girls don’t have the movies, and on TV. How are things where you live?

2 chance to get an education. In many places, women The first step to solving this problem is to be aware _ | aren't even legally equal. In Yemen, a woman is only of it. Then speak up. We need everyone at full half of a witness in court. In Saudi Arabia, women strength for this bird to fly!

. Over 500 astronauts from about 35 countries have been to space, and 11% were women.

1. There is no country where women make the same pay as men for the same work. In the

‘'! ve U.S., women earn 78 cents OTRUE OFALSE i i: for every dollar that men earn. ay y i 4 OTRUE OFALSE . Women in the U.S. earn 57% ive \ Rt 5. Women could not vote in the of bachelor’s degrees, but only i y | 2. Innational parliaments or councils, U.S. until 1920, 131 years after about 18% of engineering and ) { Rwanda, Africa, has the highest the first presidential election. computer science degrees. t | percentage of women (64%). The OTRUE OFALSE OTRUE OFALSE : U.S. Congress is about 30% female. OTRUE OFALSE 6. Of the 860 winners of Nobel 11. In some places, young girls are Prizes, about 25% are women. forced into marriage. 250 million 3. The first woman elected president OTRUE OFALSE women around the world today in a national election was were married before age 15. Vigdis Finnbogadottir of 7. Over 60% of people who can’t OTRUE OFALSE Iceland, in 1980. read and write are female, | OTRUE OFALSE due to lack of education. 12. Emma Watson (Hermione in the OTRUE OFALSE Harry Potter films) promotes 4. Women first competed in the gender equality as a UN Women Olympic ski jump event in 1924. 8. In 37 countries, land ownership Goodwill Ambassador. OTRUE OFALSE laws discriminate against women. OTRUE OFALSE

OTRUE OFALSE

16 Brilliant Star #% vol46/No.2 + M/s 2014 ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 [Page 17]WO A ONSTERS OF THE MIND W

These monsters want to read up on stopping prejudice and negativity. Connect each one with the book that will help. A

{/ We poe i" ii | q \\

[Page 18]STARGAZER

-— | 2 we “°%e

Paymon Rouhanifard

Q: What's your favorite childhood memory? A: Just playing with my little

brother. He's one year younger. And [the] first home | can

remember growing up in [was in] a small town in Tennessee.

Q: What was the most challenging experience for you when you were a kid, and how did you handle it?

A: We moved to Tennessee when | was six years old, and there weren't too many other kids on our block who looked like us. So | remember that was at time: a little challenging, kids picking on you because your name sounds different and you look different. But my parents did a really nice job of teaching us how to interact with other children and eventually overcoming those challenges.

hen Paymon Rouhanifard was about four years old, his

father was fired from his engineering job in Shiraz, Iran,

because he was a Baha'i. Revolutionary Guards came to their home and demanded that his father deny his faith. He refused, and the family fled from Iran. They lived as refugees in Pakistan and Austria for about two years. Finally they moved to Tennessee, U.S., to start new lives, free to practice their religion.

Paymon grew up and earned a degree in political science and economics from the University of North Carolina. He taught sixth grade in New York City, then spent four years in the financial industry. At age 32, he became the school superintendent in Camden, New Jersey. When he's not working to improve education for 15,000 students in 26 schools, Paymon likes to run, play basketball, and spend time with his wife and their infant son.

Left: Paymon at age 10 in Tennessee, U.S. Right: Paymon celebrates his graduation from the University of North Carolina with his parents, Jalil and Sonya, and brother Nima.

Q: How does the experience of moving to the U.S. as a kid help you in your work with children and families today?

A: | can remember having conversations with my parents and my little brother when they would instill in us the importance of education. They would tell us that if it weren't for their education (my mom is a chemist and my dad .. . is a mechanical engineer), they wouldn't have had the wherewithal and

S perseverance to fight through . . . challenges and help situate our family...

| share that story with students and families in Camden, and | think it also helps me connect to a lot of [them], because we have many immigrants . . .

Q: What are the three most important life skills that kids need today?

A: Life is challenging and will present many obstacles. But if you show grit, determination, perseverance, you will often overcome those challenges ... [by] being a good neighbor, being a good colleague and peer in the classroom and in your school.

18

Brilliant Star % vol.46/NO.2 + m/3 2014 [Page 19]Answers with an

Q: How does the Baha’i Faith influence you in your work?

A: |... think about the principle of universal education ... You have communities where half the students are graduating from high school and very few are employable and are living in poverty... We're not embracing those ideals as Baha'is if we are living in this country knowing that tens of millions of students don't have those opportunities.

Q: If you have one wish for our readers, what would it be?

A:To pursue their hopes and dreams. | was fairly young when | discovered |... wanted to make the world a better place... Here lam, in a position where | can really positively impact the lives of 15,000 students in one of the neediest cities in America. So all students should vigorously pursue their dreams.

Above: As school superintendent, Paymon is passionate about giving kids an “equal playing field" to succeed. Left: Paymon, his wife, Sarah, and their son, Jonah

Sarah recently earned a doctorate degree in biochemistry.

Q: What do you do in your work as a superintendent?

A: The governor decided that he didn’t believe the school district... was getting the results the students’ families deserved. So he appointed me to help turn it around ... Our high school graduation rate is just a little bit over 50%... But | can tell you that... our children are immensely talented. And these data reports don't reflect their full potential. So my job is to make sure that the greatness of our schools matches the greatness of our students.

Q: You started with a 100-day listening tour in the community. Why?

A: | think that the root of great leadership is humility ... So | think the most important thing | can do as a leader is to hear them all out and understand what the concerns are and understand not just what they believe needs to change, but also what's working and what we can actually build upon.

Q: What motivated you to take on the challenge of being a superintendent?

A: All students in this country have potential and have a mental ability. It's just deeply unfortunate that if you're born in a certain zip code. . . [or] a certain income level, that you don't get the same quality of education as those students in other parts of the country. And my passion is to ensure that we do everything we can to provide that equal playing field for all students.

Q: What's your favorite part about the job?

A: | love being inside of our schools and spending time with our students and families. A big part of my job is managing our financial complexities and ... personnel. But what | do more than anything else is just visiting our schools, visiting students . . . That's by far the best part of the job.

Photos: Top left portrait — Educational Networks Classroom — David Michael Howarth

VOL.46/NO.2+M/32014 % Brilliant Star

[Page 20]MUSIC CAFE

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

IN SOCIAL STUDIES, I’VE BEEN IT’S HAPPENED FOR CENTURIES AN? CONTINUES TOPAY. LEARNING ABOUT HOW PEOPLE I'VE BEEN FEELING DOWN ABOUT IT ALL, SO MY FAILY ANZ AROUND THE WORLD SUFFER BECAUSE IDECIDED 10 70 SOMETHING! AT THE MUSIC CAFE, WE’RE OF WAR, POVERTY, OR OPPRESSION. GOING TO HAVE CONCERTS FOR COMPASSION 10

START CONVERSATIONS ABOUT PEACE ON OUR PLANET...

ONE DAY by Matthew Miller, Bruno Mars, Philip Lawrence, Ari Levine

ic Am F ic c p n n —= + + = + z +—F —==: SS : S25 — - - 1 Some- times I lay un-der the —moon_ And thank God I'm breath - ing Then I pray Don’t take me

soon ‘Cause I am here for a rea-son Some-times in my tears 1 drown But I_ne-ver let it get me down So when i © G G F @ Am 2») Chorus +—F +> ++ f + = : + SS SS SS a ee a Ss te eee Cee ee oe ne-ga-tiv-i-ty sur- rounds I know some-day it'll all tum a-round be- cause All my life I've been wait-ing for I've been

‘That we don’t wan-na fight no more There'll be

pray-ing for For the peo-ple to say Oneday One day One day Oh__ 2 It’s not a- bout no more wars And our child-ren will play_

26

— — + —————— =~ —— 7 as Keep on mov-ing though the wa-ters stay ra- ging In this maze you can lose your way_ your way. It might 37, OF F F c To Bridge and Chorus ——— f z —— f z =r = + | SS: ==: i : SSS SS SS SS Ss

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peo- ple the same Stop with the vio- lence Down with the ha - te One day we'll all be free And proud to be

48 Am Am c G Am To Chorus ' . . . : _ SSS SS === — = i 4 C= Z — — = i 4 ~o<e Ld Ld Se Un- der the same sun Sing- ing songs of free- dom like One day One day

20 Brilliant Star #% VOL.46/NO.2 + M/s 2014 © 2009 Sony Musi Entertainment [Page 21]\\\

f you look for people's differences, you're sure to find them. need to feel loved, happy, and safe. We want to be treated We come from diverse families, cultures, religions, and kindly, and we like to laugh and hang out with friends. backgrounds. We look, think, speak, and act in unique ways. When you get to know people who seem different from

But diversity doesn’t mean we're completely different. you, you might find that you have a lot in common. And that When you look for similarities, you'll find those, too. We all can broaden your world in surprising ways.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 VOL.46/NO.2+M/J2014 % Brilliant Star a1 [Page 22]“Behold a beautiful garden . . . Each flower has a different charm, a peculiar beauty, its own age, perfume and beautiful color ... So it is with humanity. It is made up of many races... . but they all come from the same God...” —‘Abdu’l-Bahé

rom mountain peaks to cracks in a stone wall, flowers _ arts. We also have our individual interests and talents. can bloom in incredibly diverse places. Two species One of the joys of a garden is exploring what makes even grow in Antarctica! each plant unique. In a similar way, it’s fun to get to know Wherever they're found, flowers amaze us with people of all backgrounds. We can find out how we're magnificent colors, shapes, and scents. The human family _alike and see how our differences add beauty to the is just as diverse, with its many cultures, languages, and world—like flowers in one garden.

y NI i! COME iy WOMBATS ROAM A AL_ AND SIT WITH ME — 5 VOWN UNDER, WHERE 4 WE'LL SHARE VIM SUM LAKE MY HOME.

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S ON PAGE 28

22 Brilliant Star % voLl.46/NO.2 + M/J 2014 Mandarin: Mi hao= Hello AN [Page 23]rowing up in Pakistan, Malala Yousafzai loved school. She won over 45 trophies for exams and competitions. But when Malala was about 10, life in her hometown of Mingora began to change. A militant group called the Taliban took control of the area. Women were banned from the market. For a short time, girls weren't even allowed to go to school. Hundreds of school buildings in the region were bombed. People were killed or beaten for disobeying or criticizing the rules. Malala and her father, Ziauddin, spoke out in support of education. She was interviewed on TV and radio. In 2009, at age 11, she wrote an anonymous blog for the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) about life under the Taliban. Ziauddin received threats. When Malala was about 15, the Taliban announced that she should be killed! Her father suggested that they stop their work, but Malala said, "We can't stop now."

La life-Changing Day

On October 9, 2012, Malala was riding home on her school bus when two men stepped in front of it. One jumped on and leaned into the back. "Who is Malala?" he asked.

No one answered, but a few girls looked in Malala's direction. The man fired three shots: crack! crack! crack!

Malala had surgery at a nearby hospital and later went into a coma. When she woke up a week after the shooting, she was in a hospital in England. Her head hurt terribly. Her face was swollen and bruised. She couldn't hear or see well. A bullet had grazed her temple near her left eye and went down to her left shoulder. Her friend Shazia had been shot in the collarbone and hand, and Kainat, another friend, was shot in the arm, but they were going to be okay. A doctor told Malala, “It's a miracle you're alive."

People from around the world sent 8,000 cards, letters, and gifts. Malala needed several surgeries and months of physical therapy, but she made an amazing recovery.

@ Champion

alata; of Education

Global fleroine Malala and her family now live in England. It's not safe for them to return to Pakistan. On her 16th birthday, Malala spoke at the United Nations in New York for Malala Day. She said, "Today is the day of every woman, every boy, and every girl who has raised their voice for their rights ... One child, one teacher, one pen, and one book can change the world."

Malala spoke at the UN to over 500 youth leaders in July 2013. She said, “We must believe in the power and the strength of our words. Our words can change the world.”

At 17, she became the youngest person to ever win the Nobel Peace Prize, shared with Kailash Satyarthi of India, an activist for children’s rights.

Today, violence continues in Pakistan. In December 2014, the Taliban opened fire on a school, killing 132 students and nine staff members. Malala said, "| am heartbroken .. . |, along with millions of others around the world, mourn these children, my brothers and sisters—but we will never be defeated."

When she's not in school, Malala writes books, appears in films and videos, and gives speeches. She and her father started the Malala Fund to support girls’ rights. Malala wrote, "| think of the world as a family. When one of us is suffering, we must all pitch in and help ... The Taliban have shot me. But they can only shoot a body. They cannot shoot my dreams, they cannot kill my beliefs, and they cannot stop my campaign to see every girl and every boy in school."

Top photo: United Nations, itps:/creativecommons orgficenses/by-ne-nd/2.O/deed.en Bottom: © UNICEF/NYHO2013-0394/Susan Markisz

VOL.46/NO.2+M/32014 % Brilliant Star

23 [Page 24]many generations, there lived two boys, Osaze and

Adisa. They came from different tribes, which had sometimes been at war, but they were the best of friends.

Osaze lived across a creek from Adisa. The boys walked by the creek tending goats and cattle, and they traded vegetables for their families. After chores, they crossed the creek to play together. Over the years, they dragged big stones into the creek to create a bridge.

One day, a boy named Madu, who was jealous of their close friendship, decided to test them. He made an incredible robe that was green on one side and red on the other. Then he strolled along the creek as Osaze and Adisa were tending crops, each on his own side. Madu whistled loudly off-key, so that both boys noticed him.

A few minutes later, Osaze and Adisa met at the creek. “E pele o, Adisa! Madu can’t whistle, but he sure has a beautiful green robe.”

if an ancient African land, where people farmed for

“Green? His robe was red,” Adisa replied firmly. “Red? You're blind from the sun. It was as green as the sprouts of maize,” Osaze said with a laugh. “I'm not blind! You are!” “Don’t get so mad. I’m telling the truth!” Osaze started to cross the creek. Adisa also crossed the creek halfway. “You're lying. | thought you were my best friend!”

A

Story adapted from an African folktale

“You're calling me a liar? It’s no wonder our tribes have been at war.” Osaze was so angry that he shoved Adisa. Adisa fell and hit his head on a stone.

Osaze was suddenly filled with regret. But before he could do anything, Madu returned, laughing. Both boys stared at him in surprise. Now that they saw Madu from the front, they realized that he had a robe of two colors—green on one side and red on the other!

Adisa, rubbing his head and dripping with mud, shouted, “What? You did this on purpose to make us fight!”

Madu answered, “Beeko. | did not make you fight. You made yourselves fight. You were both right and both wrong. Real friends see things from both points of view.” With a smug smile, he ran off.

Osaze reached down to help Adisa up. “I’m so very sorry.”

Adisa and Osaze’s friendship grew as resilient as the acacia tree. Whenever they disagreed, they crossed the creek—and took a look at things from the other's point of view.

Brilliant Star % vol.46/NO.2 + m/3 2014

24

Yoruba: E pele o = Hello; Beeko = It is not so [Page 25]L ( Favorite Holiday . sestors ANguagess: or celebration | magine a world where all the wy arom ooo I speak

houses everywhere were one Gonen fauily

style, shape, size, and color. Cities Pea

and towns would look so dull! And how would you remember which house was yours? Luckily, our planet has infinite styles of architecture, from skyscrapers to castles to cabins. Where you live expresses your culture—along with language, customs, ay religion food, celebrations, clothing, music, eavorite music or beliefs sports, games, and art. All of these 1 or instrament things make you unique. How does \

We, To paint a picture of your culture, fill in your answers in each of the paint spots above. Then draw your favorites below. VOL.46/NO.2+M/J2014 »% Brilliant Star 25 [Page 26]hat if your family’s religion was outlawed, and you could only worship in secret? Patricia Locke faced that challenge growing up as an American Indian. She was born in Idaho, U.S., in 1928. Her mother was from the Lakota tribe and her father was Chippewa. At that time, Indian religious ceremonies were illegal. She couldn't tell anyone when her family went to a Lakota sun dance. Among this intense prejudice, Patricia learned to stand up for justice. When she and her sister, Frances, went to the movies, American Indians had to sit in the back. But the girls were too small to see over the people in front of them. Hearing this, their mother told the theater manager to treat her daughters with respect, or the local Indians would boycott his theater. The girls never had to sit in the back again. Patricia studied education at the University of California, graduating in 1951. She married Charles “Ned” Locke and had two children, Kevin and Winona. When they moved to Alaska in 1966, Patricia started the Anchorage Native Welcome Center to help native people find jobs and housing and adapt to city life. It was the start of her work to empower indigenous people. Patricia felt it was vital to preserve Indian culture, yet connect to the rest of society. She said, “We have to let the wisdom of the past ... guide us and give us direction. We also have to have the means to cope with this modern world.” Patricia's Lakota name was Tawacin Waste Win, or “Compassionate Woman.” She was dedicated to service and the Lakota values of wisdom, courage, respect, and generosity. In later years, she made her home on the Standing Rock Reservation in South Dakota. Patricia taught at the university level and helped establish 17 tribal colleges. She also met with leaders in Washington, D.C., and worked diligently to get laws passed protecting the rights of American Indians to practice their religion and speak native languages. Kevin, Patricia's son, became a Baha’i as an adult. In 1988, she joined him on a trip to South America, where native Baha'is shared their culture, including music and dance. She felt at home among the Baha'is and soon joined the Faith. Its teachings of unity were reflected in her motto: “All peoples have the same need to love that we do, the same family ideals, the same need for joy, the same need for understanding.” Patricia won a prestigious MacArthur Fellowship in 1991 for her activism in education and tribal rights. In 1993, she became the first American Indian woman elected to the National Spiritual Assembly, the guiding council of the U.S. Baha'i community, and was a member for the rest of her life. When Patricia passed away in 2001 at age 73, the Universal House of Justice praised her as a “highly devoted, self-sacrificing servant” of the Faith and offered prayers for her “illumined soul.” Brilliant Star % vol.46/NO.2 + m/3 2014 26 [Page 27]=mmYou\CanDorAnythingam™ “The rights of both sexes should be equally respected since neither is superior to the other in the eyes of Heaven... Human virtues belong equally to all!” —‘Abdu'l-Baha ave you ever been told you can't do became the first Somali girl to win a cross-country something because you're a girl, a boy, meet in her state! She won a national award honoring ora kid? How do you face those barriers? her as a role model. Now she inspires other girls to go Mana Abdi of Maine, U.S., wanted to be a runner for their dreams. in high school, but running and wearing pants were Girls may hear that they can't play sports or understand considered wrong for girls in her Somali community. technology. Boys may hear that it’s not cool to dance or Mana respectfully talked to her mom and a religious sing. But don't let that stop you. You can challenge leader about her goals. She got the okay, and she stereotypes and excel at whatever you love best. These kids are getting ready to share their talents. Find items named for virtues that help overcome stereotypes. Brave Ballet Capable Determined | Jump Rope Motivated — Persevering Skillful Assertive Tenacious Crown of Justice Microphone Piccolo Spotlight Top Hat ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 VOL.46/NO.2+M/J 2014 Brilliant Star 27 [Page 28]ER "5 CORN COSMO 1. Treble Chef and her family put on Concerts for at their Music Café. (p. 20) 2. The youngest person to ever win a Nobel Peace Prize was Yousafzai. (p. 23) 5. If you could get close to stars, you'd see they come in different sizes, temperatures, and . (p. 2) 7. Having an open mind is like opening a 9. Paymon says three of the most important life skills for kids , determination, and perseverance. (p. 18) 12. You can challenge stereotypes and you love best. (p. 27) 13. Luna says she and Lightning have to ____ each other. (p. 14) 15. In their friendship. Adisa and Osaze figured out how to look at things from the other's point of [If | could choose a theme, it would be the] equality of men and women.

think it's a really important theme that needs to be further explored and written about, especially how it connects to being Baha'i... Reading [Brilliant Star] .. . leaves me feeling happy and at peace with everything. It's almost like a meditation. —Rosie M., age 15, Virginia, U.S. 1. Make friends with people who come from diverse or who have different interests. (p. 17) 3. Samiya and Sonali both like these animals. (pp. 12-13) 4. Our differences add beauty to the world, like in one garden. (p. 22) 6. The first woman elected president in a national election . (p. 16) 8. Samiya and Luthando both like to help people by was from them up. (p. 13) 10. If you make a mistake, a sincere goes a long way. (p. 6) 11.A true friend treats you with (p.8) 14. These are like Earth's arteries. (p. 11) 16. Patricia Locke said, “All peoples have the same need to__ that we do, the same family ideals, the same need for joy, the same need for understanding." (p. 26) ANSWERS , even if you disagree. KEY: T=Top, C=Center, B=Bottom, L=Left, R=Right Page 7: Cuthburt at TR, Cardena at TC, Frolo at G, Arlo at G, Lexia at CR, Nanta at TR, Patko at CR, Tully at CL, Summy at TC Page 9: 1) Smile, 2) justice, 3) lunch, 4) Learn, 5) cultures, 6) Invite, 7) movies, 8) sporting, 9) Worship, 10) teach Page 10: A) 5, B) 2, C) 6, D) 1,£) 4,F)3, G)7 Page 11: Chile, Scarlet Ibises Page 16: 1) True. 2) False. The U.S. Con- gress is only about 18% female. 3) True. 4) False. It was 2014, though Olympic ski jumping started in 1924. 5) True. 6) False. Only about 5% of Nobel Prize winners are women. 7) True. 8) True. 9) True. 10) True 11) True, 12) True. Page 17: 1) D, 2) G, 3) E, 4) G, 5) H, 6) F, 7)B,8) A Page 21: Drawing at TL and CR, trumpet at TL and TR, swimming at TC and CL, math at TR and C, biking at BR and C, science at BC and CL, soccer at BL and CL Page 22: 1) Australia, 2) China, 3) Egypt, 4) France, 5) Scotland, 6) Zimbabwe, 7) Brazil, 8) Fit Page 27: Ballet shoes at BR, crown at BL, drum at BL, jump rope at BL, microphone at CR, piccolo at BC, spotlight at TL, amplifier at CL, top hat at BR Brilliant Star # voL.46/NO.2 + M/J 2014 [Page 29]~ ! Sg? Penge Family magine floating above Earth. Music from many different along. Arrogance, greed, and prejudice lead to conflict, G countries rises up to you, with sounds that cultures making it impossible to recognize the unique gifts that each often share: drums, flutes, stringed instruments, and voices. _ person has to offer. Just as a conductor steps in to guide an But what if each musician tries to be the loudest? It would —_ orchestra, God’s teachings of oneness help our human family be hard to listen to the clashing notes and jumbled tempos. _ play in harmony. Though the instruments and players are We have the same problem when people don’t get different, working together can create a joyful symphony. Immerse yourself in the music, and find your way to the shining notes at the end. [Page 30]“Birds of various species and colors wing their flight and feed together without a trace of enmity or disagreement. Therefore, in the world of humanity it is wise and seemly that all the individual members should manifest unity and affinity.” —‘Abdu'l-Baha