Br ihant star"

. www. brilliantstarmagazine.org [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:

The Altern: rin Badii « Mark Clark « Dr. David Eagleman

Enayati-Uzeta - George Hatcher

jn » Susan Huyck

Mehry Khodarahmi Lorraine Hétu Manifold

Solomon Miner « Anik Oceane Nelson - Erik Olesen

Sebastian Peralta - Layli Phillips - Wen Jie Porter

Donna Price « Juliana Nazanin Raika

ART AND PHOTO CREDITS

Original illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted

By Lisa Blecker: Photos for pp. 20-21; colorizing on p. 3 By Foad Ghorbani: Art for p. 5

Historical photos courtesy National Baha'i Archives, unless noted

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS

3, 10, 11, 16, 18, 22

12, 16, 25, 26, 32, 36

4, 6, 9 23, 24, 28, 29, 34, 37 15, 20

11, 14, 18, 30, 31, 33,

‘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)

RIGHTS, PERMISSIONS, AND CLASS USE ‘Alcontent inthis magazine is copyrighted by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé's ofthe U.S. or by individual contributors. For permission to copy or translate material, contact: Rights and Permissions, Brilliant Star, +1283 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Teachers may 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.

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. Bahé'u'lldh’s eldest son, ‘Abdu'l-Baha, interpreted His teachings and led the Baha'i community after Bahd’u'llah’s passing. Today, Bahd’is work to bring love and justice to the world, and end prejudice and discrimination of all kinds.

Riley’s Rainforest Build up your mental muscles—with sports!

Baha’u’llah’s Life: Mission of Peace His nobility changed a prison-city.

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 67 Everyone has powers to help the world.

Nur’s Nook Make a bullseye game to play with friends.

Stargazer: Lorraine Hétu Manifold A world citizen with a musical mission

Treble Chef’s Music Café Sing a song of oneness.

Maya’s Mysteries How is the whole world like the human body?

Shining Lamp: Queen Marie of Romania The first Baha'i leader of a country

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

aMAZEing ADVENTURE Experiment with formulas for peace.

(ISSN 0884-3695 [Page 1]Cae aee eee NN NS NS

Magic of Cooperation Discover the charm of virtues.

5 Are You Terrific at Teamwork?

Quiz your cooperative skills.

TEAM: Together Everyone Achieves More

Stuart & Gabriella

Tree-mendous teamwork in action

Who's in Your Pack? Family and friends help us thrive.

Global Champions Which Olympic sports do you love?

Launching Peace Draw the spacecraft of your spirit.

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TOGETHER IN HARMONY ° VOL. 47 NO. 4/5/6

Space Ace

Learn about an epic mission to Mars.

How to Lift Up Your Team

Reach high with a poster to color and share.

Cooking Up Leadership

What are recipes for success?

Splash into Service Dive in, and add up your earnings.

Games for Change

Bring fun and games to your community.

Go, Team! Win with good sportsmanship.

Mindful Music Get in tune with positive thoughts.

Flying Smart What do geese have to teach us?

Zeke & Rhombus

Decode cosmic tips for teamwork.

Skyline by Spectrum Studio

[Page 2]lin DS,

Have you ever beenona group backpacking trip, played in a rock band, or joined a robotics club? Do you do service projects with your faith community, bake treats with your family, or invent games with your best friends?

Chances are, you're often doing things with groups or teams of people. We all live, work, and play with others, so it’s vital to know how to get along, be encouraging, and cooperate.

Those skills don’t always come easily. Diverse personalities, backgrounds, and cultures can make teamwork tough. But they can also make it fun and interesting! A true team values each person's contribution and brings out the best in everyone.

In this issue, explore and celebrate team- work. Discover the many benefits of team sports. Examine what good sportsmanship looks like. Quiz yourself on your cooperative skills. Create a bullseye game. Find out what humans can learn from wolf packs. And meet conductor Lorraine Hétu Manifold, who encourages kids and adults to find their musical voice.

From basketball to band, swim team to scout troop, you can have a blast collaborating with others. GO, TEAM!

LOVE. pei iANT ZInR

Creating Brilliant Star’s new website at www.brilliantstarmagazine.org has been an important part of our work for some time. With Brilliant Star Online, we're reaching and connecting with more kids and families around the globe.

However, you may have noticed that your magazine has been late getting to your mailbox. We're excited to announce our plan for getting back on schedule. We're producing four expanded issues which will have eight extra pages of fun.

After these expanded issues, we'll return

to our bimonthly schedule for March/

~~ 1 April 2016. Ifyou have an annual 4) subscription, you'll still receive i A)? 4

the same number of magazines. Thanks for your patience with us as Brilliant Star grows to serve you better! For more details, check out:

www. brilliantstarmagazine.orglabout/otd

2

Brilliant Star # vol.47,No.4/5/6

Photos by Anton Gvozdikav (top) and Rawpixel.com (bottom) [Page 3]i

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[Page 4]‘a RILEv’S RAINFOREST

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

rom softball to soccer, basketball to badminton, team sports can be loads of fun. They're good for your body, of course, but sports can improve your life in other ways, too. Scientists find that kids who stay active tend to get better grades in school. This may be because an area of the brain involved in learning and memory—the hippocampus~gets bigger during exercise, and new brain cells get created there. Regular physical activity can also help you sleep better, which makes it easier to think and concentrate. The planning involved in sports

can help build mental muscles, too.

It takes self-discipline and good time management skills to balance sports practice with school and other stuff in life.

Curiosity Canopy

Success with Sports

Playing sports can even boost your mood and ease depression. During exercise, your

body releases feel-

good chemicals % = called endorphins. One study found % that teens who participated in sports had lower symptoms of stress and depression when they reached adulthood than those who didn’t.

Cheering on teammates and working together toward a goal can lead to strong friendships. And a supportive coach may turn into a lifelong mentor.

You don’t have to be a star athlete to enjoy the many benefits of team sports. Play casual ball games with friends, go for bike rides or hikes, or roller blade together through your neighborhood. Just grab some friends and go!

es or False? Football is the most popular sport in the world.

True—but not what Americans consider football. The sport that most of the world calls football is known as soccer in the U.S. Globally, it has

more participants and fans than any other sport.

4 Brilliant Star % voL.47,No.4/5/6

Explore &\Soar: Discover Your Sport

le do you decide which sports to play? Try these tips for

finding a good fit.

o Do you like individual activities that let you achieve your personal best? Think about tennis, running, and cycling.

o If you prefer working in groups, look at team sports like soccer, basketball, and baseball.

& If thrilling speeds and epic adventures are your thing, skiing, surfing, or mountain biking might be your style.

tO Does combining creativity and activity appeal to you? Try dance, gymnastics, or cheerleading.

Try out a sport you enjoy watching older kids or professionals play.

oO Ask friends who play sports why they love their sport.

Talk to your parents and gym teacher. They may have ideas about how your strengths match different sports.

Images, top to bottom: Ricardo Neves, EpicStockMedia, and Hluboki Dzianis [Page 5]ARE YOU TERRIFIC AT TEAMWORK?

“Let them see no one as their enemy, or as wishing them ill, but think of all humankind as their friends . ..” —‘Abdu'l-Baha

& 0, you guys! Great play!” Encouragement Being trustworthy, modest, and helpful can inspire is BIG when you're on a team. Whether those virtues in others. Performances and games

it’s a sport, a club, a band, or another vm | are more fun when you can count on people, and

group, cheering on your teammates brings joy they can count on you.

and unity. You can even be a great sport by te Take a good look at your group’s spirit. What

encouraging your opponents. supportive actions will help you and your team On a team, your attitude makes a big difference. make progress on the road to victory?

How are your teamwork skills? Circle your answers, then add up your points.

1) I'mreliable by doing what | promise to do. Often =3 + Sometimes = 2 + Rarely =1

2) When | have an idea that will help our team, | speak up and share it. Often=3 + Sometimes =2 + Rarely =1

3) | cheer for other members of my team and find ways to be helpful. Often=3 +« Sometimes =2 + Rarely =1

4) |show respect for my group’s 5) I'm honest and tactful when 9) havea postive attitude and leader or coach. someone asks for my opinion. stay focused on doing my best. Often =3 + Sometimes = 2 + Rarely =1 Often=3 + Sometimes = 2 « Rarely =1 Often=3 + Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1 6) When | make a mistake, | stay 10) | practice, so I’m prepared to v optimistic and try to learn from it. contribute to the group’s goals. r Often =3 + Sometimes = 2 + Rarely =1 Often =3 + Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1 J) m friendly and courteous with 11) | share the spotlight instead of competing people and teams. always trying to be a star. Often =3 + Sometimes = 2 + Rarely=1 Often=3 » Sometimes =2 + Rarely =1 4 = 8) | listen carefully to others’ ideas, 12) |'m flexible if the group wants to even if | don’t agree with them. make a change or try doing Often =3 « Sometimes = 2 + Rarely =1 something in a new way. MY SCORE Often =3 + Sometimes = 2 + Rarely =1 36-28 points | You're definitely a 27-20 points | Your cooperative 19-12 points | You've made it through positive team player. Way to support skills are starting to shine through teamwork tryouts. Add some skills to boost and encourage your group! Keep up the good work. your score.

voL.47,No.4/5/6 % Brilliant Star 5 [Page 6]The Life of Baha'u'llah The highlighted area marks the time

in which this story takes place.

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

Recognizes the Bab as anew Messenger of God

bones. Fair’ | Imprisonment in the “Black Pit’ of Tihrén

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't Faith

1863-1868

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

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

Ast PVE a) Finally free to live in countryside homes of Mazra‘ih and then Bahji, outside ‘Akka

Bahdlu'lldh passes away at Bahjj.

magine being sent to a prison within

a filthy, walled city. To get there, you

have to cross the sea in a sailboat.

There is almost no wind, and the blazing August sun beats down on you during an eight-hour journey.

That's what Baha'u'llah and about 70 companions, including His family, endured in 1868. Though He had committed no crime, Muslim authorities felt threatened by Baha’u'llah's religious teachings. They thought that by sending Him to ‘Akka, in what is now Israel, they could stop the Baha’ Faith from spreading.

When the exiles arrived at the sea gate in ‘Akka, they waded through the water to enter the city. The men were ordered to carry the women on their backs, but Baha'u'llah's eldest son, ‘Abdu'l-Baha, insisted that the women be treated with dignity. He managed to get a chair, and each woman was carried respectfully over the water.

‘Akka was a desolate prison-city of about 9,000. It was said that birds flying over the city would drop dead from the stench. ‘Akkéa's inhabitants had been told that Baha'u'llah and His followers were evil criminals who deserved cruel treat- ment. When the exiles entered the city, they were met with jeers from the crowd.

The Baha'ts were led to an old army barracks that served as their prison. Conditions were dire. It was so hot and foul-smelling that Baha’u'llah's daughter, Bahiyyih Khanum, fainted. There was no clean water to drink, and their only food was a few loaves of salty bread. All but

Baha'u'llah and His companions arrived at the sea gate in ‘Aka in 1868.

two of them became ill. Three men died, including two brothers who died in each other's arms.

Baha'u'llah said of the imprisonment in ‘Akka, “None knoweth what befell Us, except God, the Almighty, the All- Knowing... From the foundation of the world until the present day a cruelty such as this hath neither been seen nor heard of.”

Three days after their arrival, the judgment from the Ottoman ruler, Sultan ‘Abdu'l-Aziz, was read at the mosque. Baha'u'llah was sentenced to life imprisonment. The Baha'is were not allowed to associate with anyone.

However, despite the vicious rumors about the Baha'is, some citizens of ‘Akka recognized Baha'u'llah’s noble character. One man among the hostile crowd, Khalil Anmad ‘Abdu, said he could see in Baha'ulllah's face signs of greatness, majesty, and truthfulness.

He said that the people of ‘Akka should be thankful to God for Baha’u'llah’s presence in their city. Another man, ‘Abdu'llah Tuzih, saw radiance, power,

6 Brilliant Star % vol 47,No.4/5/6 [Page 7]and glory in Baha'u'llah. He later became a Baha’.

In time, others grew to respect Baha'u'llah and the Baha'is. ‘Abdu'l-Baha became known for his care and concern for others, especially those who were poor or sick. Baha'u'llah's strength and integrity impressed the authorities, and they gradually eased the harsh restrictions. He was eventually given the freedom to leave the prison-city and live in the nearby countryside.

Baha'ullah spent His final years at Bahji, near ‘Akka. After His passing, a shrine was built at His resting place. Baha'is around the world consider it Bahji, the home where Baha'u'llah spent the final years of His life, the holiest spot on Earth. is near ‘Akka, Israel.

Baha'u'llah urged us to live together in peace. Use the key to decode His words.

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ANSWER ON PAGE 36 Photos © Baha‘ International Community VOL.47,NO.4/5/6 Ww Brilliant Star 7 [Page 8]w ay TOGETHER EVERYONE Ce TEAM: ACHIEVES MORE. iss!

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A favorite experience The best strengths | contribute to my teams are: | had with a team was when: »,

Cool name for a band or team:

Three things that make a good leader:

A goal | have for a team tm part of is:

A team can overcome a challenge when they:

works together as an awesome team when:

My family

8 Brilliant Star % VoL. 47,No.4/5/6 Art by Ringlet and america365 [Page 9]ey, there! Stuart and Gabriella here. Did you know that there are about three trillion trees on our planet? We couldn’t survive on Earth without them. Trees and other land plants give us about 30% of our oxygen. The rest is from ocean plants. These plants and trees pull toxic carbon dioxide pollution out of the air. - They're like the lungs of the planet! Forests and rainforests

are also home to birds, bugs, and millions of creatures. Billions of trees have been destroyed to make products, including furniture, lumber, and paper. Forests are cleared to make room for cattle ranches and cities. So we're planting new ones. From digging to watering, everyone is working together to make our service project a success.We’re growing trees and friendships!

\ voL.47,No.4/5/6 % Brilliant Star 9 [Page 10]Who's in Your Pack?2

young wolf wanders, lost in the woods. _ relationships and cooperate to hunt for food.

He lets out a long howl, then listens. All the wolves in a pack help to feed, play with, Miles away, a group of wolves and watch over the lively young pups. recognizes his call and howls back to let him As humans, we also have “packmates”— know where they are. our family, friends, teachers, and other people Intelligence and strong family bonds make —_ we rely on. When we trust those around us, wolves positive symbols in some cultures, we feel more safe and secure. It’s comforting

such as North American Indian tribes. Wolves _ to be part of a group that takes care of one live in family groups called packs, usually with another and to do our part to help. Like wolves,

wl GRAV WOLF PUPS Sy

ARE BORN BLIND £°f, < BEGIN TO SEE AT py aS TWO WEEKS AND

THREE WEEKS. = [Page 11]& » Qa “All the members of this endless universe @ E oe are linked one to another.” —Baha’'i Writings ) =f a.

OUR CONNECTIONS )

Trash—it's a messy problem. Worldwide, landfills collect over 1.4 billion tons of garbage every year! They can spread disease by attracting vermin and leaking germs into local water supplies. And trash is often burned, releasing toxic fumes and methane —a gas that leads to global warming. Since many countries export trash and recyclables, dealing with them requires global cooperation. So reduce, reuse, and recycle. How close can you get to creating zero waste?

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

PROTECTING OUR PLANET y

EXPioRE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AnD ITs CREATURES

WOW, REALLY?)

In one cubic centi- meter of the brain, there are as many connections between brain

Plastic is harmful to animals and pollutes Earth—but 500 billion to one trillion plastic shopping bags are used every year! Stand up for the planet by bringing your own reusable bags.

cells as there are stars in the Milky Way galaxy.

y > ¥

Dr. David Eagleman of Texas is a neuroscientist and author who hosts the TV series The Brain, where he explores how our minds work and what it means to

be human. He says, “If you are curious about something and find the answer while you are still curious that answer will stick in your memory.”

Thinking they had discovered the mouth to a river, Portuguese sailors named this place “River of January.” Rio de Janeiro is now a diverse and thriving city in the largest country of the southern hemisphere. Unscramble the letters to find the country:

ZABLIR

These smart, social monkeys gather in troops of about 20 in trees. A baby will cling to its mother’s back until it’s three months old. Fill in the blanks to find their name:

NK YS

Cc PUCH N M

Dr. Eagleman by Mark Clark

VOL. 47, NO. 4/5/6

Brilliant Star 41 [Page 12]Age: I live in:

| want to be:

This career interests

me because: »

A favorite food: AP Virtue | admire most: A hero or role model: Hobbies or sports: | enjoyed being

part of a team:

Favorite Baha'i activities:

Connect with kids around the world! Teams! admire:

lities of How are they like you? How are they een player * different? Each of us has a unique story to tell. What’s yours? COTE RSS TUNE y nin oe

x Age: ‘ Hobbies or sports:

I live in:

Hobbies or sports:

| want to be: Favorite Baha’ activities

These careers interest »

Favorite animals or pets me because:

Favorite Baha'i activities:

Ahero or role model: Virtue | admire most:

Age: Ahero or role model: ! enjoyed being I live in: | enjoyed being

part of ateam |wantto be: part of ateam

My family works as a team: This career interests me because:

Teams | admire: When a team disagrees:

Team | admire: Virtue | admire most:

Place I'd love to visit: > s

12 Brilliant Star % vol.47,No.4/5/6 [Page 13]x

“God has crowned you with honor and

Age: 11 in your hearts has He set a radiant star;

l enjoyed being

I live in: California, U.S.

part of a team: [My] robotics team ... got

verily the light thereof shall brighten

| want to be: along really well and had the whole world!” An author, an great ideas. We built an entrepreneur awesome robot and went

These careers interest

me because:

I love writing, and I want to have my own company when I grow up.

Virtues | admire most: Perseverance (stub- bornness!), humor,

all the way to regionals!

Team | admire:

The team behind

[J.K. Rowling’s] covers, because each of them is so intricately drawn and painted, and they’re just so gorgeous!

Age: 9 live in: British Columbia,

Canada

| want to be: A doctor This career interests

and kindness My family works as a team: ee helpin:

Hobbies or sports: We will all help each th 1 ping l enjoyed being i t other [with chores omer peopre. part of ateam:

Robotics, basketball, [ ]

dance

Favorite Baha’/ activities: Green Acre [Baha'i School in Maine, U.S.]

Favorite animal or pet: My dog, Lila Bean!

Place I'd love to visit:

and talk and listen to music...

Virtue | admire most: Truthfulness

Hobbies or sports: Piano, cello, violin, guitar, ukulele, and reading

Favorite Baha’/ activities: Children’s class, Naw-

Unscrambling words as part of a team and also playing in an orchestra and singing in a choir Qualities of a

good team player: * Accepting when your team loses, having fun,

Paris &Z Ruz, and Ayyam-i-Ha* and working together Favorite animal or pet: earmlateln Ilike all the animals, Baha'i youth groups, because they work because they all have 5

¥ ; different qualities together on... projects

Age: 9 A favorite song: . that help people...

I live in: Slovenia

“The Call,” by Jack Lenz

Place I'd love to visit:

My family works as a team:

| want to be: A perolen role model: HES ooe We help each other, iMck tril alagivere Tahirih, because she A hero or role model: especially by taking care was brave. ‘Abdu’l-Baha of my little sister Lua.

This career interests me because: I want to help people.

Virtue | admire most: That [people] are

| enjoyed being

part of ateam:

[When our] children’s class visited an old people’s home and sang

friendly and kind for them and shared . If you're age 7-14, go to www. brilliantstarmagazine.org

Hobbies or sports homemade biscuits and and choose “Explore,” then “Baha’is & Friends in Action,”

Basketball and karate brought happiness. then “Radiant Stars.” Click “Apply Now” and fill out the Qualities of a form. Or e-mail us at brilliant@usbnc.org.Include your 4

Favorite Baha'i activities: Baha'i children’s classes

Favorite animal or pet: Horses, because I like horse riding.

Place I'd love to visit: Iran, because that’s where my dad was born.

llike to help people by: Standing up for them

good team player: Friendliness, fairness

Ayyam-i-Ha is February 26-29, 2016, days of hospitality, charity, gift giving, and

preparing for the Baha'i Fast. Naw-Riiz is the Baha'i New Year on March 20, 2016.

name, age, birth date, mailing address, and phone number.

. When it’s your turn to shine, we’ll send you questions

and a form for you and your parents to sign.

rh

. 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 copies,

low-resolution digital images, or copyright- protected images (like school portraits).

VoL. 47,No.4/5/6 # Brilliant Star

13

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[Page 14]LOBAL GHAMPIONS

lympic champions break world records with (football) and water polo. Even athletes who perform 0) incredible feats of speed, strength, endurance, individually train together on national teams. We can and grace. And in most events, teamwork is learn a lot about teamwork and good sportsmanship from the key to winning. athletes at the Olympics and other world sporting events. In summer 2016, over 10,000 athletes from about 200 It’s also an awesome opportunity to experience diversity countries will compete in the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. and build unity through international cooperation. It’s the first time the Olympics will be held in South America. Whether your goals include sports, the arts, or science, Many of the 42 sports are group efforts, like soccer working well with others makes you a true champion.

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 36

14

[Page 15]“The light of a good character surpasseth the light of the sun and the radiance thereof.” —Baha’u'llah

46 weee, bweee, bweee ...” It’s the alarm system in your In a similar way, diverse people around the world are B spaceship! There's a disturbance in the galaxy causing _ working to build unity on Earth. Dark forces such as racism, chaos, confusion, and conflict. Your help is needed! violence, and injustice cause distress and disunity. You can You'll cooperate with your galactic neighbors to visit outlying help humanity with your forces of light, such as kindness and planets and help them listen to each other and work out a love. When we put our strengths and virtues together, we can peaceful solution. reach a far brighter future!

sign your own spaceship for peace on the station be and virtues you use to help create the lig unity in your universe

VoL. 47,No.4/5/6 # Brilliant Star 15 [Page 16]| Spare ACE) |

DESTINATION: MARS

Our universe is full of mysteries, and some of the most mind-boggling are in space. In this issue, George Hatcher from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) answers our questions about his ambition to live on Mars. What sparks your curiosity about space? Send your questions to brilliant@usbne.org (with your name and age), and our friends at NASA will answer them.

What inspired you to want to go to Mars?

[remember being captivated by space exploration when | was very young... My parents sent me to space camp when | was in sixth grade... and that was when | learned about Mars as the destination for humans in space that made the most sense, after the moon. .. I’m still excited about space exploration. | still think that humans need to get out there.

boo >)

How would you communicate with Earth?

[By using] some frequency of light . . . the same way we send signals between

Earth and Mars now. .. | think the average time delay to Mars is around 20 minutes. So you will record a video or an audio message, and once you're finished recording it, you'll send it to Earth. It will take 20 minutes to get there.

re

Do you want to be the first to set foot on Mars?

When | was younger, | wanted to be first . .. Given the fact that I’m a Baha'i

now, and | know that the first crew will be two women and two men... it would be important for ... one of the women to go first. | think it’s time for us to demonstrate to all humans the equality of men and women.

re

Q: What are three things that most people don’t know about Mars or about traveling in space?

A: Mars has very ephemeral weather. There are clouds. There are dust storms. There are changing seasons... But what | would really want to impress upon people is that the environment on the surface of Mars is effectively a vacuum ... And it’s also incredibly cold.

Q: Tell us about the Mars One mission.

A: Their... goal is to start the first permanent human colony on Mars. And they would like to... [send] crews of four every two years... and slowly build a colony, four people at atime... They really wantit to be a representative sample of humanity, so male and female, all countries, all backgrounds, all races.

Q: How would you grow food on » Mars, and what kinds of food would you eat?

A: A certain percentage

of the Martian diet [will]

be self-grown vegetables, probably hydroponically, probably with artificial lighting, probably in an inflatable habitat covered with Martian soil to protect from radiation, and to gradually increase that percentage of fresh vegetables and herbs and whatever else [can] be grown economically in the diet of the settlers.

Q: When do you think the mission

will be ready to go to Mars?

A: think... they would be shooting for the 2026 departure window at the earliest... That would be an arrival in...2027...My eldest child will be 14 in 2026, and our second child will be 12. So if! am not a member of the first four-person crew, | will not be heartbroken.

Brilliant Star # vo1l.47,No.4/5/6

16

Look for our full interview with George at www-brillantstarmagazine.org (coming soon) [Page 17]ag a Mars One Transit Vessel (MTV) Mars One lander

What are the most important skills you would need?

The most important skill for a Mars One mission . .. would be interpersonal

relationships . .. the manner in which you conduct yourself with your fellow human beings... . Not only are you in a confined space for the rest of your life, but your lives are in constant danger. So resolving conflict is probably the single most important skill for a current settler of Mars.

reo

What do you think you’d miss most on Earth?

Everything... Thinking about what it would be like to live on an airless frozen

block, you know, tens of millions of miles away from everything that sustains life as we know it for the rest of your life, really puts you in a mood for appre- ciating everything that this planet has to offer... What would you not miss?

reo

Q: How did you like The Martian? Did the movie portray a realistic idea of what it would be like to be on Mars?

A: loved The Martian ... [It] is without question the most realistic depiction of human exploration of Mars to date . . . It will likely be years before another film portrays humans on Mars so authentically. When they do, they would do well to show just how pitifully weak Martian dust storms are in the barely-there atmosphere of Mars. They will have to invoke CGI [computer- generated imagery] or use parabolic flights [with periods of weightlessness]

to properly showcase human locomotion in [.38 of Earth’s] gravity. And the Q: easiest improvement will be to show Martian sunsets as they truly are: blue, not orange. But it will be a tall order to do all that with a plot that is A:

simultaneously as accurate and plausible as that of The Martian.

Q: In The Martian, the characters face one disaster after another. How do you personally handle problems under pressure?

A: | tend to function best under pressure . .. When it comes to emergency situations, you train as much as you can. .. and you understand your systems that keep you alive like the back of your hand...

Mars One settlement

GEORGE HATCHER is an avionics engineer at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, U.S. He works on electrical systems of uncrewed rockets. He also studies planetary science at the University of Central Florida. Working for NASA is a dream come true for George. He’s aspired to be an astronaut since he was three. He’s one of 100 finalists in the Mars One Project, which aims to create a human settlement on Mars.

What else do you want to tell our readers?

Don’t give too much credence to the naysayers, because there are going to be a lot of people out there that, for whatever reason, are going to be discouraging. So whatever it is that you are pursuing, whatever it is that you feel like is your calling, do not be discouraged.

Images: Renderings by Bryan Versteeg and Mars One, Mars by NASA

VoL. 47,No.4/5/6 # Brilliant Star

17 [Page 18]4

[ae LIGHTNING & LUNA

— TEAMWORK TRIUMPHS BAXTER AND BRIDEET INSIDE THE SECRET CHAVBER... == TV'S FASCINATING TO THINK ABOUT T.CAN'T BELIEVE THE SYMBOLS ABOUT OE ERE LONG LINE OF HON QUR ANCESTORS NAVE ART AND UNLOCKING POWERS ARE MISSING! TTyOhe: | SUPERNEROES. . ) @3 \ AGO? WE’VE BEEN DECODING OTHER O)) eS SYMBOLS, BUT THIS CHAMBER WAS lke Sh Ms HIDDEN. BNESSAEE FROM ANCIENT A sS UPLIFTERS—I1’S ASTONISHING! wn "

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THESE COULD BE 12,000 YEARS OL? OR MORE. THEY’VE N

ERODED OVER TIME. —

BEING TOLD IN | | HAVE TO 60 SEE IS COMPLETELY WPORTANTLY, YOU HELPED YOU'VE BEEN ABIC HELP DESTROYED! = SAVE THE PRICELESS - THESE SYMBOLS! ] | PULSAR BNP HISTORY IN THE CAVES QUASAR IND .

JB WAY | _ALEADER OF CHECK OUT ’ } 5 \ THE UPLIFTERS!

WELCOME TO THE TEAM, W ADMIRAL CHROMA, DURING WE’RE ON THEY'RE VILLAINS COLIN. I’VE HEARD YOUR COMMAND, YOU PUT ALERT FOR WHO WANT TO ABOUT YOUR BRAVERY. | DISCOVERY IN | | THESE CAVES UNDER WATCH. THE ERASERS’ ERASE VIRTUES.

\ THE CAVES. GREAT INSTINCTS! NEXT STEPS. THEY THINK IF THEY DEFEAT US, THEY CAN ADIMRAL? YOUR - CONTROL THE WORLD.

GRANDMA WAS

A LEADER OF THE UPLIFTERS?

\ G y ) ( AND YOU’RE QUASAR: SO EXCITED TO HELP.

18 Brilliant Star % vol.47,No.4/5/6 [Page 19]THERE] | THEY'RE RECEUITED BY ALEAVER AMMERE | | Wo EVAVES US, LIKE A GHOST. COME

“THE ERASERS ARE TOO FROM? BUSY FIGHTING EACH

OTHER FOR MONEY AND

POWER TO WIN AGAINST THE UNITY OF THE UPLIFTERS.

BACK AT THE RANCH...

SO... WHAT HAPPENS NOW?

BEING AN] | BUT WE GOT THROUGH UPLIFTER \T, ASATEAM... 1S SUCH A SCARY WITH SOME HELP THRILL! FROM GOD, FOR SURE.

NOW, I EAT 10 SANDWICHES!

SERIOUSLY, HOW CAN WE HELP WITHOUT POWERS? COULD WE — UH-EVER GAIN THEM?

WE DON’T KNOW EXACTLY HOW

{TALL WORKS, BUT YOU DON’T WOW, WHAT AN

NEEV SUPERPOWERS TO HELP. ADVENTURE. I’M SO RELIEVED

YOU’RE ALL SAFE!

AN? NOW YOU KNOW THE TRUTH ABOUT YOUR GRANPPARENTS.

YOU'VE ALREADY PROVED THAT.

THANKS FOR EVERYTHING. THAT WAS THE MOST EPIC VACATION EVER!

LOOK OUT FOR _}4 EACH OTHER, OK? |g SS

I’M S0 PROUD: OF YOU TWO.

— 1

CHECK OUT PAST EPISODES OF LIGHTNING & LUNA AT

COMMANDER, THERE WAS NO SECRET . WEAPON. AND THE |} THAT'S WHAT

THEY GET FOR HAVOCS HAVE PEEN TeyING To Nt )

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URED! = wl

CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU.

MY PLEASURE.

WWW.BRILLIANTSTARMAGAZINE.ORE

VoL. 47,No.4/5/6 # Brilliant Star

19 [Page 20]scoring Skills! Make 9 Bullseye

1

“Consort ina friendly spirit with everyone . .

W

With pen, trace three different-sized circles onto different felt colors. Cut circles out.

Stack circles, with the smallest on top, and glue together. Glue stack to center of 9"x 12" (22.9 x 30.5 cm) felt piece.

_and show loving-kindness and tender regard to all...”

hat are your favorite games or sports? It’s fun to compete or team up with friends and family. You can pick up skills that go beyond the

game’s board or boundaries. : Cheering on others builds team spirit and excitement.

” —‘Abdu'l-Baha

Trying out anew move could boost your creativity and courage. Dealing with defeat can strengthen patience. Looking for ways to improve your game may build ge problem-solving ability. Create a bullseye game to play with your family and friends. Have fun scoring points and skills!

Youll Need

. 9"x 12"(22.9.x 30.5 cm) + two pieces 12"

felt pieces in 5 or 6 i we (30.5 cm) ribbon + hole

round bowls, cups, or Pench

lids for tracing: * dark ballpoint pen 7" (17.8 cm), 4.5" * scissors (14cm), and 2" (51cm) + tacky glue + three table tennis balls + ruler

+ 23"x%"(58.4x19 cm) regular or self. + duct tape (optional

adhesive Velcro strips u using self- (scratchy/hook portion) adhesive Velcro)

3 Onanother piece of felt, draw a star that fits inside the smallest circle. Cut star out.

20

Brilliant Star % vol 47,No.4/5/6 [Page 21]Gime

4 Draw felt numbers 5, 20, 50, and 100 ona contrasting color. Cut numbers out.

7 Punch hole in each top corner of game. Thread ribbon through holes and knot. Tie ribbons to a tree branch, hooks, or anywhere game can hang evenly without support of a wall.

5 Glue star to center of bullseye. Glue numbers to each section in decreasing order, with the most points at center.

6 With self-adhesive or tape, secureedges of ~~

Velcro strip (scratchy/ \ 4 TO PLAY: 4 “Make a start line abou t hook portion) around (1.5 m) in front of game. Each ae

‘akes

center of entire ball. “ tums , = standing behind li i Se, ine and t alae ai S d balls, aiming for high points, mee (2.5 cm) piece o} is the first to score 500 Points. Or w Velcro to each end. j together to reac! re ork h 500 points as a group.

voL.47,No.4/5/6 % Brilliant Star a1 [Page 22]LTT RR FEMUR

_E

“Make us as waves of the sea, as flowers of the garden,

united, agreed through the bounties of Thy love.”

Be kind and loving

Trust each other

Stay positive

Seek inspiration everywhere Set high goals together Express your gratitude

Be flexible

Try something new

®ush your creativity Strive for excellence

Be a good listener Speak with courtesy

Treat each other with respect Be confident, yet humble

Share and teach your skills Play games together

Keep your cool

Bake treats to share

Have lots of fun Volunteer as a group

we

rm QO

22 Brilliant Star % vol 47,No.4/5/6

—‘Abdu’l-Baha

Cheer for each other Express your enthusiasm Be reliable

Be patient

Sharpen your skills

Give your best effort Suggest big ideas Share your favorite life stories Learn from mistakes

Ask thoughtful questions Tell jokes

Give gifts from the heart laugh together Celebrate originality

Be forgiving

Give sincere compliments Make art together

Celebrate with your team 48

ss

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Art by meow_meow

[Page 23]assigns duties, and inspires everyone to cooperate as a team. When you're working toward a goal with others, having a leader helps. Good leaders motivate each person to do their best, so the whole group can excel. They help the team figure out what needs to be done and how to doit. Like a skilled chef guiding a kitchen crew, a leader combines everyone's talents into a delicious stew of success.

f you stepped into a busy kitchen of a restaurant, you'd see a team of people chopping, mixing, cooking, and baking. From seasoning soups to frying French fries, each person has a specific job to do. But they need a leader. If everyone tried to take charge, they’d cook up chaos! That's where a head chef comes in. The head chef often plans the menu, creates new dishes, helps train the staff,

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vol.47,No.4/5/6 ¥% Brilliant Star 23 [Page 24]“Blessed and happy is he that ariseth to promote the best interests of the peoples...

v ou lower your goggles, wait for the signal, then Vf into the pool. You swim hard as you and your teammates work toward the same goal—to complete as many laps as you can to raise money for people in need.

There are lots of ways to work together to help our human family. You could ask some friends to help bake

O

NAME Donations per Lap

o Swimmers are raising money to help kids in need. For each lap they swim, they'll collect a donation. Multiply or divide to find the missing amounts, then add up the grand total raised.

of the earth.”

—Baha’u'llah

cookies to sell for charity. You could collect supplies for shelters. Or see who can pick up the most litter at the park.

We can do more as a team than we can by ourselves. So gather with others to talk about local or global needs. Brainstorm ways to help. Set goals and make plans. Then dive in together to make your splash of service!

Number of Laps

1. Ethan $2.50

20

2. Juan $

3. Aliyah $5.34

19

4. Soheil $4.05

5. Yuki $

6. Jessie

7. Breiton

18

Grand Total Raised

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Brilliant Star # vo1l.47,No.4/5/6

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SWERS ON PAGE 36 [Page 25]yer think that playing games could

id youe help change the world? Its true! Whether you love video games, board build communication.

playing helps h determination, and

s, Why not invite a neighbor of your Your time together can help bring community.

games, or sports;

handling challenge

classmates to play? change and friendship to you!

ft

Wack AS OF %

Form teams of 4-6 people.

Everyone on a team links arms. The

outsides of thei shoes must touch the

shoes of the people on either side.

The whole team moves froma

starting line to a finish line without their feet losing contact (as if glued together). If anyone's feet stop touching, the team goes back to start. The first

team to reach the finish line wins.

Divide into pai pairs, Each LEGO pieces. Sitsonarne eo 5 fe One meron 0 partners can’t see sathat set of 20 uilds something, then olay S work. ins to the

Com, Pare your art, then switch Toles

CATCH A 3 N\))

Invite the group to stand i on Chal persons arm, then Place a hula hoop Write questions in permanent marker on a beach ball. For example, around hes People to move the er to join hands. "what's your favorite way tohelp others?” Everyone stands ina circle. takes at e circle without anyone rel Z hoop all the way Play music while tossing the ball from person to person. Stop the oh Operation to maneuver th leasing hands. It music! The person holding the ball reads aloud the question closest Is and under ther fet— andtiny over people’s to their right thumb and gives the answer. Start the music again and leads to laughs! keep playing.

=

vol.47,No.4/5/6 w& Brill iant Star 25

[Page 26]Lorraine Hétu Manifold

magine going for a walk and counting 60 kangaroos!

Lorraine Hétu Manifold says the creatures are gorgeous

and come within a few feet when she explores an Australian forest reserve near her home.

Born in Canada where her father was an orchestra conductor, Lorraine grew up surrounded by music. She took piano and violin lessons and sang ina choir. During college, while volunteering at the Baha'i World Center in Haifa, Israel, she realized that she wanted a musical career. She returned to Canada to study music at the University of Ottawa. Then she earned a Master's degree in the U.S. in vocal pedagogy—the science of teaching people how to sing. Lorraine now lives with

her husband, Alan, in Melbourne, where she teaches music and

STARGAZER

conducts choirs of kids and adults with laughter and joy.

Q: What did you like best about singing in a choir as a kid? A: | started singing in a choir when

. | was 11 years old, and it was @ just so much fun. The friendships

2 ~ | think that we made, just

eS learning about singing. Just

J singing brings you joy, really...

Left: Lorraine was eight years old when she started going to Baha’i classes. Right: Q: What are important qualities Atage 11, she sang in a choir in Belgium. She's second row from bottom, sixth from left. for successful musicians?

A: Hard-working .. . Determination ... Humility is wonderful in the Q: What was the most challenging experience for you when you

musical world, because so were a kid, and how did you handle it?

much of music nowadays is . . . A: [My parents] divorce was one of the most challenging things | ever about obtaining glory. It's all went through, because | kind of lost both my parents at the same time. about their personality .. . My father left, and then my mother kind of became depressed, so she versus really offering singing was, you know, kind of out of business for a whole year. So basically, my as a service to humanity ... to sister and | were pretty much on our own, taking care of ourselves .. . touch their souls and to bring | had to write an essay [for school] .. . | kept stalling and stalling . . . them happiness. | think finally the school wrote to my mother. .. And then my mother

helped me, and then | was happy ... . We survived. As everybody does.

26 Brilliant Star % voL.47,No.4/5/6 [Page 27]Answers with an

Q: Why did you choose to serve at the Baha'i World Center in Haifa, Israel?

A: | felt like my life was in two separate areas ... my regular life... [and] my Baha'i life... | didn’t know how to bring them together ... My mother [said], How about going to Haifa to serve? And | just really liked the idea... It was so wonderful, because it was like a spiritual university for me... | prayed a lot. | went to the shrines. | read. The first year, the only books | read were Baha'i books. . . | just really grew in my understanding of the Baha'i Faith.

Q: What do you like best about being a team leader?

A: I'm a bit of a clown sometimes, and so when I'm conducting a group, | get to be silly or make jokes. And if there's a mistake, we kind of make a joke about it, to laugh about it. At the same time, we work hard, and we try to improve. And everything is done ina spirit... of friendliness.

Q:

The only way to get the choir to try to get to a higher level is always by

>

Q: A:

Left: Lorraine conducted the choir in the first Australian Sacred Music Festival in Sydney in 2015 at the Baha'i House of Worship. Right: Lorraine and her husband, Alan

What's your advice for kids who would like to be choir conductors?

A:

It's important . . . to know about the singing voice, so... study singing ... Study piano as well, because piano is excellent as a conductor, to be able to accompany the choir .. . or just play the notes so that they could hear them .. . Study conducting . .. It's amazing the change of sound you can get out of a choir by learning how to use your hands to get the sound you want.

A lot of people think conducting is just beating the pattern, you know, and just giving 1, 2, 3, 4. But if you put 10 conductors in front of the same choir and repeat the same phrase, you will get 10 different sounds out of the choir because of what the conductor is emulating consciously or unconsciously . .. Conducting is .. . a study. It's a science. It's an art.

How does giving encouragement affect a choir?

encouragement and pointing out the good things they've done... Our

little muscles in the vocal tract are just so miniscule and so sensitive to our emotions. If you're really sad or angry, you tighten up inside in the

voice .. . Or if you're really happy and excited, then it opens up... The sound changes just by changing the muscles inside . . .

What's your wish for Brilliant Star's readers?

Follow your dreams and work hard at them .. . Sometimes we dream about following our dreams .. . Or we don't dream, and we just go along ... It helps you to become a happy person when you're actually doing . . . [what] you enjoy, and... what's going to bring you your income at the same time. It's the best combination.

Top right photos by Zarrin Munusamy

voL.47,No.4/5/6 % Brilliant Star

[Page 28]Ee a T ic AN M | “It behoveth everyone to traverse this brief span ) D of life with sincerity and fairness.” —Baha’u'llah

hat would sports and games be like if nobody frustrated, but you can still respect others, even if you're \W played fairly? Imagine what would happen ifevery having a bad game. When you play by the rules and treat all player threw a fit after losing a game or mocked players, coaches, and officials as you want to be treated, their opponents after a win. everybody wins. Competition can be fun when everyone practices good Look at the volleyball game. List at least seven ways kids

sportsmanship. That includes integrity, fairness, and apositive are showing respect and being good sports. Then list at least attitude. It's not always easy to keep your cool when you're —_ seven ways kids are being unfair or disrespectful.

28 Brilliant Star % Vol. 47,No.4/5/6 ANSWERS ON PAGE 36 [Page 29]NH, or RN A/ ae Ee LE al

a2

——

ave you ever heard musicians warming up their

instruments? The random sounds often clash

painfully. But when everyone practices their parts and plays them smoothly, music emerges like magic.

When you're working with others toward a goal,

sometimes you'll hit a sour note. Maybe someone acts bossy. Others skip practice. Two people might argue. Teamwork isn’t always easy.

THESE SONGS ARE BORING. WHY CAN'T WE PLAY SOMETHING GOO?

’M TOO NERVOUS. MAYBE I SHOULD SAY I’M SICK AND CAN’T MAKE IT TO THE CONCERT.

IF SAM MESSES UP HIS PART AGAIN, I’LL LOSE MY COOL! HE MAKES US ALL SOUND BAD.

T/M NEVER GOING TO PLAY LIKE >> APRO, SO WHAT’S THE POINT? SSS (

WHY BOTHER WITH ALL THIS PRACTICE? } WE SOUND GOO? ENOUGH.

(6) LHATE MAKING MISTAKES. I FEEL SO STUPID.

(7) WE'LL NEVER BE READY FOR THE BIG. CONCERT TOMORROW. IT’S GOING TO BE ADISASTER!

ss ae YESTERDAY'S PRACTICE WAS ANFUL. | Ih |. rs L BET TODAY’S WILL BE WORSE. \

> a

ANSWERS ON PAGE 36

MINDFUL MUSIC

“Through the power and charm of music the spirit . . . is uplifted.” — ‘Abdu'l-Baha

Keeping a positive attitude helps. Optimism makes you happier and uplifts others, too. Compliment a team member who does a great job. Tell a joke to lighten the mood if things get tense. Ask everyone to imagine a successful performance—how will it make you feel at the end?

It may take time for everyone to get in tune, but when you have faith in yourself and in your group, you'll learn to play in harmony.

These kids are preparing for a band concert. Match each negative thought with the positive one that can replace it.

TOO BAD MY FRIENDS COULDN’T COME TO THE LAST CONCERT. I’LL ASK ABOUT THE NEXT ONE.

TOMORROW'S CONCERT WILL BE TOUGH, BUT WE’RE PREPARED. WE CAN 70 THIS!

@ 11'S GOOP THAT WE’RE PRACTICING ALOT. EVEN SMALL IMPROVEMENTS WILL HELP.

Oe Ly ZB Yr 5 @ IT’S SO COOL 10 EXPLORE ALL Gi ples

é Ui DIFFERENT STYLES OF SONGS. / G@ LINER VOUS, BUT WE'VE WORKED HARD. TL i TRY VISUALIZING A GREAT PERFORMANCE.

Cat @ VEY AROVEH PRACTICE YESTERDAY. AG bur rm sure wes 70 BETTER TODW O 7 \ MAVBE T’LL INVITE SAM TO PRACTICE oa

{SD with me. IT WOULD HELP US BOTH.

\/ be Aue cE

my TVS GREAT TO HAVE MUSIC AS A HOBBY, =< 299 31's CRENTIVE AND 6007 FOR MY BRAIN! (_)

CesT ™N » VoL. 47,No.4/5/6 # Brilliant Star [Page 30]WHAT 70 YOU GET WHEN AGOOSE LAYS ANEGE 9 ANFEEROLL! ON TOP OF A BARN?

[| Fiving Smart |

’ ave you ever wondered why geese and other team stronger. It may seem like the leader is the most birds fly in a “V” shape? When a goose flies, its | important person in the group, but a good leader serves wings create an upward air flow behind it and the team and brings out its best. to the side. If the next bird flies in that spot, it can save Whether you’re working on a group science project energy. That way, the group, or wedge, travels more or playing a basketball game, sharing leadership gives e efficiently. When the leader gets tired, another bird everyone a chance to test their wings. Putting all of your takes over. talents together is fair and fun, and it helps the whole Like a wedge of geese, cooperation can make any group fly even higher.

Hidden letters:

“nit. in diversit_ Wf J_cti_ns is c_lled flr...

E_c_ _ers_n c_nn_t d_ e_er_t_in_ J nd _lIl _ers_ns c_nn_t d_ te s_me t_in_.” —Bohd’i Writings Ea OS WS, i a SET Ee Fh Stk.

30 Brilliant Star % Vol. 47,No.4/5/6 ANSWERS ON PAGE 36 [Page 31]i! Zeke here, with my pet, Rhombus, from Planet Zilizag. We're having an awesome time playing our favorite sport, Zolooky. Our team tries to zip the ball through the hoop without getting swished off of

our hoverboards. It takes balance, skill, and lots of

cooperation. We love being part of the team. When we're

onne ° eC ws SA eO8 AD, Ook z G & °

CoC S 2

1. Shoot for the stars! Set high GEOOS

and stay focused in practices and games.

2. Follow the rules of whatever planet you're on, and encourage everyone to play .

O@#OO

3. Work on improving your own not criticizing others.

o0@000

4. Keep an mind. The universe is full of

eoHe®

diverse beings with different ideas and opinions.

( . Take care of your body so you can play well and i your team.

10. If you win, don’t space out! Celebrate with

working together, there’s a cosmic, fun feeling of unity. Rhombus and I also make an awesome team as we

travel around the galaxies searching for peaceful planets.

We've been learning about Earthlings and if there’s peace

on planet Earth. Throughout the galaxy, when you get a rc onboard with teamwork, things _ zoom along!

ts

Z (aa oO @ ACE Sotwhe

Sj USE MV DECODER TO CHECK eae Sean Cec COE:

<= LLOUT THESE TEMAWORK TIPS. Kee ies Al a)

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6. Try not to compare yourself to others. Aim for fs your personal best. OHO@OHOO©OS oT 7. Competition can get stressful. Remember to U- keep the game . a Ha ® i 8. Intergalactic players have a variety of talents. i - . Be patient while others new things. : OHOKR® i

9. If you lose, congratulate your opponents with a attitude. OO @0O®8

for the other team.

RHO LEKE’S ZILTIZAE DECODER

@ So Um Wp Yo [ie o ke To Vo X> Zm Hig

Aan 4

ANSWERS ON PAGE 36

31

VOL.47,NO. 4/5/6 Wwe Brilliant Star [Page 32]MUSIC CAFE

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

YOU KNOW WHAT L LOVE BEST ABOUT THE MUSIC. CAFE? | ANZ WHEN OUR GUESTS THE PEOPLE! EVERY DAV, OUR BAKERS, SERVERS, JOIN IN WITH SONG ANZ INUSICIANS, AND OTHERS ALL WORK AS A TEAM TO FRIENDSHIP AND LAUGHTER, PITCH IN AND MAKE THE CAFE-WELL, DELICIOUS! | LFEELAS IF WE NEED...

NOTHING MORE By The Alternate Routes

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a = fe Cerne © eee == Foz ese eaeer pe UL Peels z= 9 <= t =o, — Tobe hum-ble, to be kind._ It is__a giv-ing of the peace in your mind. 5S. Am G c F @__2 a ae = _— Fe on Cre = = ==. — To a stran - ger to a To give. in sucha way_— that & G % c G F —- —— = = — t—t t t a=) 53s ("= = SS MOE Sam! =. £ t ———— has no end We are Love__ We are One_ We are how we treat each o-ther when the 12 C Cc G Am — _— _— 4 ras ——— a ——- = : ae Tf #3 eo day is done. We are Peace_ We are War__ We are 15. F G S S as Le 2

=== =[edit]

<-> — 7 © i i i how we treat each o-ther and No-thing More And tell me what it is that you see 18 Am 1 Gsus G = = Cw © eo |f eo we ey —— rt —— j —— =< — = 9 y = —s 7. a A world that’s full. of end-less poss-i- bi-li- ties_ And 21 G Am G G e+ 2 = t + —— —— iS) t —4 —— + f ‘S22 he-roes don’t look like they used_ to, they look like you do. DS. al fine VERSE 2 CHORUS To be bold, to be brave. BREAK

It is the thinking that the heart can still be saved CHORUS And the darkness can come quick The Danger’s in the Anger and the hanging on to it.

OUR BOVIES

DRE AMAZING

EXAMPLES OF TEDMWORK!

“How much the organs, the members and the parts of the body... are for mutual aid and help, and how much they influence one another!” —‘Abdu'l-Baha }

-connected |

hit it back, I’m using hand-eye coordination. I’m not the best player on my team, but Coach says Tm a fast learner and I have quick reflexes.

eyes track a fast-moving ball. My brain figures out where it will go. I race to the spot, exercising my heart, lungs, and a bunch of muscles. When I

~ TEAM EARTH love tennis so much! When I play, I can feel the different parts of my body working together. My

Our bodies are fascinating examples of teamwork. So many organs and systems cooperate all day long, as we breathe, eat, run—or do anything.

The Baha'i writings compare the whole world to a human body. We're all connected. We can affect the environment, people, and creatures around us. Staying healthy helps us feel great and do our best for everyone on Team Earth.

THE BODY QUIZ

Check out my quiz to test your knowledge of our amazing bodies.

1 We need at least an hour of

physical activity a day, to exercise our hearts and build muscle. O True 1 False

2 Babies are born with 150 bones.

O True 1 False

3 About half of our bodyweight is

water. Drinking extra when we're hot or exercising keeps us hydrated. O True 1 False

4 About 80% of the flavors we

experience come from a combi-

nation of smell and taste. (Try

holding your nose while eating.) O True 1 False

5 To repair the body, grow muscle,

and store memories, kids need 9-11 hours of sleep a night. O True 1 False

6 We have about 86 billion nerve

cells in our brains. They can send information as fast as 249 miles per hour (400 kph).

O True 1 False

A liquid in our ears helps with balance, telling the brain the position of our head.

O True 1 False

Eating plenty of fruits and veggies may reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and some kinds of cancer.

O True 1 False

9 The eye is most sensitive to red.

O True Or False

10 Our hearts pump the equivalent of about 50 gallons (189 L) of blood every day.

O True Or False

11 Cigarette smoke has about 7,000 chemicals, and at least 70 can lead to lung cancer.

O True Or False

12 Skin color comes from the pigment melanin, which also protects us from the sun’s rays. People whose ancestors lived in northern climates with little sun tend to have less melanin; those from sunny areas have more melanin.

O True O False

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vol. 47,No.4/5/6 # Brilliant Star

33 [Page 34]“SHINING LAMP

Queen Marie of Romania

magine sending the queen of a country a book that you want her to read. Then imagine she really does read it—and invites you to the palace to talk about it!

Marie Alexandra Victoria was born in England in 1875.

As a granddaughter of Queen Victoria, her title was Princess of Great Britain and Ireland, but her family simply called her “Missy.” When she was about 11, her family moved to the island of Malta for three years, where Marie grew to love eastern architecture, flowers, and horseback riding.

In 1893, at age 17, Marie married Ferdinand, the Crown Prince of Romania. They had a family with six children. In 1914, Ferdinand and Marie became King and Queen of Romania.

War and Tragedy

Marie loved people and wanted to help others. From 1913 to 1918, Romania was involved in two wars, including World War I. Marie organized field hospitals and helped care for soldiers. She also wrote a book about life in Romania called My

Country to raise money for the sick and wounded.

“lL was never tired or discouraged,” Marie wrote in her diary. “I would allow no difficulty to beat me, the harder the work the more strength did I find...”

(1875-1938)

During World War I, a Russian plot to imprison or assassinate Ferdinand and Marie was uncovered. Marie's relatives offered her and her family a safe haven in England, but she refused. Despite the dangers, she chose to stay and help Romania any way she could. Marie's three-year-old son, Mircea, died of typhoid fever in 1916. She comforted herself by imagining him in the next world, welcoming soldiers who had been killed in the war. When World War I ended in 1918, Marie helped with peace negotiations to reestablish Romania's boundaries.

A Book and the Baha'i Faith

Marie, her parents, her husband, and their children all belonged to different Christian churches. Sometimes religious differences caused tension in the royal family, and this frustrated Marie.

In 1926, an American Baha't journalist, Martha Root, traveled to Europe to share the Baha’ Faith. She went to Bucharest, Romania's capital, hoping to meet Queen Marie. Martha sent the queena letter and a book called Baha'u'llah and the New Era and asked to meet her. To Martha's great joy, the queen invited her to the palace!

Brilliant Star % vol 47,No.4/5/6

34 [Page 35]Martha wrote of meeting Marie, “One can understand how all love and adore their Queen, for she possesses beauty and charm of mind and manners, while from her grave blue eyes flashes the light of a great spirit...” She described the queen as “daring,” “enthusiastic in all that she undertakes,” and dedicated to “universal principles of right and justice.” Marie thanked Martha for the book—in fact, she had stayed up until three in the morning reading it! She told Martha, “I believe these Teachings are the solution for the world’s problems today!”

After Martha's visit, Marie kept studying the Baha'i teachings. She wrote to a friend, “I have found in... Baha'u'llah’s Message of Faith all my yearning for real religion satisfied.”

" Sharing with the World

In 1926, Queen Marie wrote an

article about the Baha’i Faith that

appeared in many U.S. and

Canadian newspapers. “It is l

a wondrous Message that

Baha'u'llah and his son

Abdu'l-Baha have given us..."

she wrote. “Search out their

Books, and let their glorious, y "

peace-bringing, love-creating ¥

words and lessons sink into your

hearts as they have into mine.” Marie wrote several more newspaper

Queen Marie in 1906, with four of her children (left to right): Princess Maria, Princess Elisabeth, Prince Nicholas (seated), and Prince Carol. Below: While visiting the U.S., the queen received a headdress from

two American Indian tribes. They also named her “Morning Star” and “Winyan Kipanpi Win,” meaning “The Woman Who Was Waited For.”

articles sharing Baha'i teachings. She also

exchanged letters with Shoghi Effendi, the leader

of the Baha'i world community at the time. Martha's friendship with the queen continued,

and Marie found joy and comfort in Martha's

letters and visits. Though political pressure kept

her from officially announcing herself as amember of the Baha’ Faith, Marie

told Martha, “In my heart lam entirely Bahai.”

Near the end of her life, Marie called the world to Baha’u'llah’s message: “To those searching for light, the Baha'i Teachings offer a star which will lead them to deeper understanding, to

assurance, peace and good will with all men.” When Queen Marie of Romania passed away in 1938, Baha’‘is around the world held memorial meetings in her honor.

vol. 47,No.4/5/6 # Brilliant Star 35 [Page 36]_

y i a = a e Oo. 2 1 | WHERE 70 ASTRONAUTS LEAVE THEIR SPACESHIPS?

Look for clues throughout the magazine

2. In one cubic centimeter of the

5. Trees and land plants give us 30% of our

9. George says skill for a settler on Mars. (p. 17)

11. Lorraine says this is an important quality in a musician. (p. 26) 14. The 2016 Summer Olympics will be held in

15. The Baha'i writings compare the whole world to a human . (p. 33)

16. Helps build mental muscles (p. 4)

body. We're all

17. A good

FROM OUR MAILBOX

, there are as many connections as there are stars in the Milky Way galaxy. (p. 11)

conflicts will be the most important

serves the team and brings outits best. (p. 30)

| really like Lightning & Luna and Radiant Stars . . . [Brilliant Star] makes me feel like | want to learn

more about Baha'i teachings and

helping the earth more.

—Wen Jie P., age 12, California, U.S.

1. Wolves have strong

entirely Baha'i.” (p. 35)

Page 3: 1) empathy, 2) diligent, 3) fairness, 4) dependable, 5) unity, 6) encouraging, 7) optimistic, 8) friendly, 9) noble

Page 7: “The well-being of mankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established.”

Page 9: unity, justice, foresight, responsibilty, knowledge, commitment, cooperation, organization, optimism, service

Page 10: 2 at far TL, 1 at TR, 5 at CR, 3 at BC, 3at BL, 3 at CL, 2 atC

Page 11: Brazil, Capuchin Monkeys Page 14: A) 4, B) 3, C) 5,D) 1, £)7, F)6,G) 2

Page 24: 1) $50; 2) $3.33, 3) 17 laps, 4) $64.80, 5) $4.19, 6) 20 laps, 7) $120.96, Total = $555.60

bonds. (p. 10)

3. Juliana and Anik both play . (pp. 12-13)

4. Works like a charm. (p. 3)

6._____ everyone achieves more. (p. 8)

7. Seek inspiration . (p. 22)

8. Dealing with defeat can strengthen your . (p. 20) 10. Shoot for the stars! Set high . (p.31)

12. Cheering on your teammates brings joy and

13. Queen Marie of Romania said, “In my

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

. (p.5)

,lam

Page 28: Respectful (from TL): Eating off court, cheering from bench, pumping air into ball, cheering teammate on cour, listening

to coach, patting teammate on back, giving serving tips. Disrespectful: Talking or sleeping on bench, shouting at official, kicking ball, wearing skates on court, tampering with lines, being rude to opponent, laughing at ‘opponent, littering on court.

Page 29: A) 6, B) 9, C) 7, D) 5,E) 1, F) 2,

G) 8, H) 3,1)4

Page 30: P at TL, V at TC, Y and H at BR, Aand U at BC, G at BL, O at CL. “Unity in diversity of actions is called for. . . Each person cannot do everything and all persons cannot do the same thing.”

Page 31: 1) goals, 2) fairly, 3) skills 4) open, 5) support, 6) achieving, 7) fun, 8) learn, 9) positive, 10) respect

Brilliant Star % VoL. 47,No.4/5/6 [Page 37]Q0

“Science is the discoverer of all things . .. By intellectual processes and logical deductions of

reason this superpower in man can penetrate the mysteries of the future...” —‘Abdu’l-Baha hat if we could create an incredible potion that would This potion would be an easy way to solve the world’s problems. inspire everyone to get along and work together in peace? —_Butit’s not so simple. Just as scientists conduct research, we have to Imagine no more bullying or violence, because everyone wantstobe —_look at the evidence and reach for new discoveries. We need patience friends. No more hunger or poverty because we all share what we to experiment and learn about what works and what doesn't. It's not have with others. Global warming has been reduced because people _easy to solve humanity's challenges, but with ingredients like love, are taking action to save Earth’s environment. compassion, and determination, we'll concoct a whole new world! SJ Help these scientists find the correct path for the ingredients through their experiment. \ Rei

voL.47,No.4/5/6 % Brilliant Star 37 [Page 38]“The diversity in the human en be the cause of love and caren’ ol i sc where many different no’ es - “ Ser in the making of a perfect chord. - —‘Abdu’ 1-Baha

Brilliant Star

Together in Harmony VOL. 47,NO.4/5/6 - Sept.2015 -Feb. 2016

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

www.brilliantstarmagazine.org

Brilliant Star/Volume 47/Issue 4-6/Text

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