eee (eo) cer belek eke Pe aa �[Page 0]

Amethel Parel-Sewell EDITOR/ CREATIVE DIRECTOR C. Aaron Kreader DESIGNER/ILLUSTRATOR Amy Renshaw — SENIOR EDITOR

Heidi Parsons ASSOCIATE EDITOR Annie Reneau ASSISTANT EDITOR Foad Ghorbani PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

MANY THANKS TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS: Roya Akhavan - Elsa Bishop + Lisa Blecker Mark Cabot - Tiernan Cabot + John Eisele Jasmin Kemp + Hannah Miller-Thom

Soraya Moritz » Theo Norris + Lila Padfield Layli Phillips - lvan Plocher - Donna Price lain Simmons + Samantha Sobhian

Aspen Sollars » Thomas Stanwood

Joshua Vare + Dr. Diana H. Wall + Ella Zamani

ART AND PHOTO CREDITS

Original illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted

By Lisa Blecker: Photos for pp. 6-7

Historical photos courtesy National Baha'i Archives, unless noted

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS By Amy Renshaw: 3, 11, 12, 19, 25, 29 By Heidi Parsons: 2, 16, 21, 22, 28 By Annie Reneau: 4, 8, 14, 26, 27 By Lisa Blecker: 6, 24

By Donna Price: 9, 10, 11, 12, 20

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

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

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

Baha’u’llah’s Life: Mission of Peace He gave up a life of luxury to bring unity to humanity.

Nur’s Nook

Make a glider and let your spirit soar. a

Riley’s Rainforest How can hope help us be healthy and happy? :

Maya’s Mysteries When challenges come your way, do you persevere?

We Are One

Explore and care for the place we all call home.

Lightning and Luna: Episode #73 Tackling tricks and traps in Elka Ego’s lair

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

Stargazer: Roya Akhavan She encourages the search for truth.

Shining Lamp: Nabil-i-A‘zam

Once a shepherd, he became a Baha’ historian.

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

aMAZEing ADVENTURE Find a positive path up steep, twisty trails.

ISSN 0884-3635 �[Page 1]

NEW DESTINATIONS 2

Sharing Love and Hope Tiernan Cabot offers hope to the homeless.

3 Shine Your Light

Floating lanterns carry hopes for peace.

9 Noble Nightingales

Find birds famous for their nighttime songs.

Celebrating the 200th Anniversary eee] 4, of Baha'u’lléh’s Birth ~ How did the Baha’i Faith begin?

19 Magic of Hope

Triumph over troublesome trolls.

Zeke & Rhombus: Space for Cooperation Visiting a favorite spot in our galaxy

91 How to Plant Seeds of Hope

A poster of positivity to color and share

Climbing with Confidence

Reach your goals with a positive attitude.

2 5 What Do You Say?

Speak from your heart about your beliefs.

9 Positivity for Our Planet 7 Help the Earth with an optimistic outlook.

MIX

toe} -1a ice) ia)

responsible sources

og FSC* C103362

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

DEAR FRIENDS,

When you think about the future, how do you feel? Excited? Worried? Hopeful? We don’t know what the world will be like in 10 years or 100 years. But we can choose what we want and expect it to be. When we look forward with hope, we can see a bright future for all—and figure out how to make it happen. We'll face challenges along the path, but we can work together to overcome them. In this issue of Brilliant Star, created in honor of the 200th anniversary of Baha’u'llah’s birth, discover what it means to have hope. Explore a timeline of Baha’u'llah’s life and mission. Draw yourself achieving agoal that's important to you. Create a cool homemade glider to inspire you to soar with determination. And get to know Roya Akhavan, a professor and author who encourages students to investigate truth and share ideas through the media. = a There are so many inspiring people that can help us build a better world—and you're one of them! Let your light shine and help guide others toward a hopeful vision for

all humanity.

LOVE, peiyLiANt ZAR a

Skyline by Spectrum Studio, Photo by Art Stocker �[Page 2]Sharing love and dlope

ek ave you ever learned 6 =£ about a problem in the

world and wished you could do something about it? Fourth-grader Tiernan Cabot did, and he turned his wish into a service project. Tiernan, a Baha’t who lives in Connecticut, U.S., started Hartford Bags of Love to provide homeless people with needed items. With positive goals and a nine-year-old founder, the project attracted

attention. U.S. Senator Richard Tiernan Cabot (front row, in red shirt), his mom Renu, his Blumenthal wrote to Tiernan, brother Aakhil, and others gather to assemble “Bags of Love.” “You are not only providing those in need with clothing and ... There's this one homeless man | A: Inspirational messages, like toiletries, but you are also giving was talking to... about what his life “never give up" —just stuff that them hope for a better tomorrow.” is like, and it was kind of emotional might make them feel a little bit Brilliant Star interviewed for me. So I talked to my parents, better about their lives... Tiernan to learn more about his ene SESE WAS BEE er i i j Love ... It started out as a small Q: What advice do you have for preject. rns eo shows thing. Then people started getting somebody who is thinking of how one inspired person can interested and... then we got on starting a service project? make a difference with service. the news, so it’s grown a lot. A: Try to think about what would be the most helpful... [If you] want Q: How did you decide what to to do something that might

include in the bags?

A: We thought that [we] could try to make therr life better by at least starting [with] some stuff that they might want to eat, like granola bars or bottles of water... We gave out bags have when you're full of stuff... like [a] tooth- ‘ doing a service project brush, toothpaste, mouthwash like this?

not be possible, try something smaller at the beginning, then ... work up to that.

Q: What virtues are important to

Tiernan and friends put encouraging notes in the bags.

Q: What inspired you to launch ...And then we started getting A: Kindness, because [you] can be Hartford Bags of Love? donations from... the town... kind to [people] when you're talking A: My parents were taking me to to them. And also love, because Bushnell Park in Hartford... Q: What do you write on the notes Hartford Bags of Love is about helping [to help serve] food for the homeless that you put in the bags? [people] and sharing their love.

Go to www.brilliantstarmagazine.org/articles/sharing-love-and-hope for more photos and the extended interview with Tiernan.

a] Brilliant Star *% voL48 NoO6 �[Page 3]

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 vo..48 No6 % Brilliant Star 3 �[Page 4]

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

1852. 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’ Faith

1863-1868 |

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

A903 yea | Last exile, to prison- city of ‘Akkd, Israel

(87722 Fie 2) Finally free to live in countryside homes

of Mazra‘ih and then Bahjf, outside ‘Akka

1892 May 29

Baha'u'lléh passes away at Bahjf.

n extraordinary child was born in Tihran, Persia (now Iran) in 1817. Named Mirza Husayn- Ali, He later became known as Bahda'ullah (“Glory of God" in Arabic). His family descended from the Prophets Abraham and Zoroaster, and from ancient Persian kings.

Baha'ullah’'s father, Mirza ‘Abbas, held a high position in the court of the shah (king) of Persia. He was honored for his virtuous character and his talent in calligraphy. The shah so admired him that he gave him the title Buzurg, or “the Great One.”

Baha'ulllah’s mother was Khadijih Khanum. Little is known about her. She was a widow with three children when she married Mirza Buzurg. Together they had five children, and their third-born was Baha'u'llah.

Baha'ullah’s mother was so attached to Him that she disliked being apart, even for amoment. She marveled at His calmness. “This child never cries,” she said. “He is so unlike other babies that cry and scream and are forever restless..."

When Bahda'ullah was a child, Mirza Buzurg dreamed that his son was swimming in a vast ocean. Baha’u'llah's body radiated light, and His black hair flowed above the waves in all directions. As He swam, schools of fish attached themselves to the strands of His hair, but Baha'u'llah was unharmed.

Mirza Buzurg consulted a wise man who interpreted dreams. The man said that the ocean symbolized the world. “Single-handed and alone, your son will achieve supreme ascendancy over it,” he said. The fish represented the people

Takur, in the north of Iran, where the family of Baha'u'llah had a summer home.

who would gather around Him, but “this tumult will never harm His person, nor will His loneliness upon the sea of life endanger His safety.”

Mirza Buzurg grew even more devoted to his son and hopeful about His future.

Baha'u'llah loved being outdoors and riding horses. He spent summers at His family’s luxurious home in the mountain village of Takur. In Tihran, they lived in a group of seven interconnected mansions with beautiful furnishings and private baths.

Baha'u'llah was tutored at home in the Qur‘an, calligraphy, and poetry, as was customary for children of wealth and nobility. He impressed others with His wisdom and insight. By about age 13, Baha'u'llah would talk with religious scholars in large gatherings, and they would listen carefully as He explained spiritual ideas.

“Such intelligence! And such perception! He is as a flame of fire!” Mirza Buzurg said. “Even at this young age He surpasses mature men."

4 Brilliant Star * voi48 No6 �[Page 5]

When Bahd'ullah was about 22, Mirza Buzurg

passed away. Baha'u'llah was offered a government position, but He declined. When the Prime Minister heard of His refusal, he said, “Leave him to himself. Such a position is unworthy of him."

Baha'u'llah's mission went far beyond worldly

affairs. In 1863, He announced His station as a

Messenger of God. Today His followers are found

in almost every country. In 2017, Baha'is around the globe joyfully celebrate the 200th anniversary of His birth, which the Baha’ writings say represents “the single greatest worldwide opportunity there has ever been for connecting hearts to Baha'u'llah.”

Find 19 words related to the story. Look up, down, backward, forward, and diagonally.

CALLIGRAPHY CHARACTER CHILDHOOD DREAM EXTRAORDINARY FISH GENEROSITY HUMANITY INSIGHT INTELLIGENGE KINDNESS NOBLE OUTDOORS PEACEFUL POETRY RELIGIOUS SPIRITUAL TRIUMPH WISDOM

Ta A = = TS 20 wrt ao 7

omn~xt wDrereazat Uo WwW oOo YF DBD AH xX Mm

re x SG Seestrna zt &e rz ce =

<n wDooousox7rt ce oOo SAH WAX > =

<uoHo =z =e AWnmM az we 2 HS He Ce re

mmDbeH ond FP rerHawrsmeoKx<

The house of Baha'u'llah in Takur, in the province of Mazindardn. It was destroyed by the government in 1981.

rH = ana rere Se SS Se Re G&G

Y DS R DH D EX M OD $ I X F B Z Y U OD I R P C I O H P S N N O I K Y $ N H RG Y QTD I EIA Pk2gW Tt kL OP I G E—E N C E W DR PC A R VY 000 C RM § EW E IT A A OU MF I $ H E §$ U M P H C R H K DC $ P D I

ao za a= mr Coe SH Tt ee eS SX

vol.48 No6 » Brilliant Star

5 �[Page 6]

Persevere Towsrd Pesce. Creste

“World peace is not only possible but inevitable.” —Baha’i Writings Just as humans flew into the skies, we can soar spiritually and create a peaceful world. It’s hard to imagine, but like aviation, people can achieve what seems impossible. To overcome the conflicts that keep us down, our powerful ingenuity and determination give us wings. Make this cool glider to inspire you to soar. Name it for a virtue you want to practice. Have fun experimenting with its design and trying different ways to fly it.

ow do we know if our hopes can come true? People

once thought humans would never fly. But in spite

of dangers, inventors dared to dream and experiment. With creativity and perseverance, hot-air balloons and gliders were invented. In 1903, Wilbur and Orville Wright successfully flew the first powered and controlled aircraft. Afterward, air travel made incredible advances. Now over eight million people fly worldwide every day!

CREATE A GLIDER AND HOLD? IT LIKE THIS TO MAKE IT FLY FAR!

Youll Need

OU" X2M" (14.6. 3" 6 2 KH" (19 x 5.4 cm) piece a

or masking tape

of paper

Wedge-sh

. 1% (19.7 cm) cap <_ thin drinking —— * permanent markers

two 10" (25.4

cm) foam plates *° Pen

cm) index card * scissors

1 For wing shape, fold ee pele long ais) 3 Forglider’s tail, cut out two g et. On one rectangles from plates—

open end, cut through “ 1%" x 3%" (3.2 x 8.3 cm) ce es to round and1%"x1%" (3.2 x3.8 ners. Open paper. cm). Cut off one corner

of smaller rectangle so

2 Trace paper wing it’s rounded. shape twice onto lates. Cut a = | 4 Drawline across

; center of large

a

they’re even. y’re even == rectangle. Repeat on other side.

Brilliant Star *% Vvol48 No6 �[Page 7]

Cool Glider

5 Tape sides of short,

small rectangle to without index card. 112" (3.8 cm) of straw should extend

large rectangle, so it forward past wings. Make sure plane’s tail points up.

stands up on line. 6 Tape end of straw to line on bottom side of long rectangle. Tail’s rounded edge should face glider’s front.

straight edge of 9 A.Fold wings up and tape straw along seam that’s

B. Open wings. Fold wings down along seam (without crushing straw) so wings lie flat on table, then gently press wing tips slightly upward.

B 7 Tape short, @, straight edges aa li. ‘

of wings a

together. Flip

. a WIngs over.

8 A. Fold index card in half so short ends meet, then open card. With wings lying flat, place card’s crease over seam of wings.

10 For glider’s nose, center eraser’s open end on straw’s open end. Secure with tape. Decorate glider with markers, avoiding tape and straw. Now it’s ready to fly!

A

wee Go ae a? in a &

Flight Tips: Amount of tape should be equal on both halves of plane. Wings, nose, and tail should line up evenly along straw. VOL.48 NO6 & Brilliant Star 7 �[Page 8]

< RTF L Hope Is Healthy

id you know that our beliefs can impact how our brains respond to illness and injury? Hopeful thoughts can boost our ability to heal and handle pain. If we’re sure we're going to feel better, we’re more likely to do just that. The Baha’i writings say that one way doctors can help patients heal is by giving them hope for recovery. Scientists have observed this phenomenon, too. Sometimes, a pill can work if someone believes it will—even if there’s no medicine in it! It’s called the placebo effect—when patients experience improvement

simply because they expect they will.

Positive beliefs help in other ways, too. Want a healthier body? People who are optimistic about the future tend to eat more fruits

Curiosity Canopy

and vegetables, exercise more

frequently, and say no to smoking.

Want to have more fun? A poll of a million people found that hopeful participants tended to laugh and smile much more often than people who weren't as hopeful. Want better grades? Studies of students find that hope helps determine who will do well in school—even more than intelligence or personality.

Wishing and positive thinking aren’t enough on their own. In addition to believing there’s a way to succeed, hope involves taking steps to get there, even when it might be challenging.

Hope is also contagious. It’s boosted by friends and family who are supportive and encouraging. Through our words and actions, we all help the world by spreading hope!

“Send down...

rl

from the clouds of Thy

mercy the rains of Thy healing...”

—Baha’u’llah Explore & Soar: Give Yourself a Lift

t's easy to say we should be

hopeful, but it’s not always easy to do. Try these paths to perking up.

Be positive. Focus on successes you've had in _ the past to | help you feel more optimistic about the future.

Be real.

Hopeful people tend to be confident but realistic. Choose goals that excite you and let you use your strengths.

Be tough.

One aspect of hope is knowing that there will be obstacles, but having the determination to push past them.

Laugh a lot.

Humor can inspire hope and happiness. Smiling and laughter increase feel-good chemicals in the brain.

[=k you know? Hope may make you a more successful athlete! Researchers have found that hopeful kids perform better and are less likely

to consider quitting sports. And students who took a class designed to raise hopefulness reported increased confidence in their athletic ability.

8 Brilliant Star % voi.48 No6 �[Page 9]Ara

~ re you ever so full of emotion that you want to sing out to the world? Nightingales are famous for their nighttime songs. Their complex melodies include over 200 musical phrases. They sing so vigorously that they actually lose weight! Nightingales are often found in art, music, and poetry, and they’re in the Baha’i writings. In 1863, when Baha’u'llah announced His mission as a Messenger of

God, He stayed in a rose garden in Baghdad for 12 days.

y

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

As He walked in the garden at night, the nightingales sang so loudly that only those closest to Him could hear His voice. Baha'u'llah said the birds sang all night due to their great love for the roses. He later referred to Himself as the “Nightingale of Paradise” Who brings the message of God.

Like nightingales, we can sing out with energy and devotion. When our words and actions uplift others, we bring unique songs to the gardens of humanity.

voL.48 No.6 % Brilliant Star 9 �[Page 10]

his has been the saddest week ever. First, my

best friend, Aiko, moved across the country.

Then, I wiped out on my bike and broke my leg! To top it off, now we have to cancel our family’s hiking trip. I’ve been excited about this trip for months. Ugh, what a bummer!

But when I got my cast, the doctor reminded me that everyone has challenges. She gave me

PLAN TO PERSEVERE

. I say prayers and read sacred writings to lift my spirits. OFTEN: 3 - SOMETIMES: 2 - RARELY: 1

eating nutritious food and getting enough sleep. OFTEN: 3 - SOMETIMES: 2 - RARELY: 1

3. When I’m feeling sad, I talk to family or friends. OFTEN: 3 - SOMETIMES: 2 - RARELY: 1

| 4. I think about or write down for others. things I’m grateful for.

OFTEN: 3 - SOMETIMES: 2 - RARELY: 1

~ ARE YOU HOPEFUL? ~ Circle your answers, then add up your points. ee

5. I focus on what I can do today, and try not to dwell on the past. OFTEN: 3 - SOMETIMES: 2 - RARELY: 1

2. I take care of my health by 6. I catch my negative thoughts and turn them into positive ones. OFTEN: 3 - SOMETIMES: 2 - RARELY: 1

7. I learn about heroes who have overcome difficulties.

OFTEN: 3 - SOMETIMES: 2 - RARELY: 1

8. I do small acts of kindness

OFTEN: 3 - SOMETIMES: 2 - RARELY: 1

a calendar and marked the weeks until the cast comes off. So I have hope for better times ahead.

On the calendar, I wrote my “Plan to Persevere” and filled the days with positive ideas. I picked days to invite friends over, volunteer at the animal shelter, and do kind things for others. I even put in reminders to say prayers. Whatever life throws at me, it helps to look for ways to be hopeful.

9. I spend time with positive and supportive friends. OFTEN: 3 - SOMETIMES: 2 - RARELY: 1

10. I make music, do art, or write in a journal to express my feelings. OFTEN: 3 - SOMETIMES: 2 - RARELY: 1

11. I exercise or walk in nature to keep my body and mind strong. OFTEN: 3 - SOMETIMES: 2 - RARELY: 1

12. I make a plan to reach my dreams and take small steps i to achieve them.

OFTEN: 3 - SOMETIMES: 2 - RARELY: 1

36-28 points: You're full of hope and ready to take on the adventure of life. Keep it up!

10 Brilliant Star *% voi.48 No.6

~ MY TOTAL SCORE: 27-20 points: You're doing great.

If life throws you a challenge, try another tip from the quiz.

Se oh at mee 2 “5 eye aT OE ES Sa aR ES . ” bh ee ee

19-12 points: You can do this! Pick tips from the quiz to work on, or talk about it with a friend. �[Page 11]

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

WOW, REALLY?

Sustainable Souvenirs The sun’s diameter

It's fun to have something is 400 times larger

to help you remember than the moon’s, but

your adventures. Instead ee mat Cmr late of taking flowers, Bi away from Earth, rocks, or other oom) so they appear things from nature, og om mC take a picture! CT ae same size.

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

was na for 2. 000 miles (4, 828 km)!

blanks to find its name: rE ETT 1GH 1 GAL Images: Eclipse by Igor Zhuravlov, sun and moon by foto-ruhrgebiet, Diana H. Wall by John VOL.48 NO.6 *& ‘Brilliant Star 11

Eisele/Colorado State University Photography, Bahji by lain Simmons, bird by Andyworks �[Page 12]

“LIEH THING: é LUNA

INEVER |

WANT TO LOOK AT ANOTHER MIRROR!

-/MEANWHILE, ON THE ROOF... |

BF win, you viv

| yd cotus[edit]

SS OVER THE MOAT!

Siew Se POD 7, FP : Sree Wallai(z REPORT! UH, LIGHTNING ame) id 5 AND LUNA ARE | fililieg et YIN TROUBLE!

6UYS! HELP IS ON THE WAY... AH...WE BROKE SOME POLE ala eee ON THE ROOF.

COMMUNICATION JAMMER! ARE

Eas | FINE! AND

FOP...

OUT COL. LET’S

| WHAAAT? THE aaa WALLS ARE MOVING!

12 Brilliant Star % vol.48 No6

ee 7~ aca ela }

MORE OF ELKA’S CKEATIVE

HOSPITALITY, WH?

[

A i>

�[Page 13]

WELL WE'RE NOT || THANK |] [A SLIDING INTO| ff ZAPPO THAT ACID! LATER. AN

A | [LETS col

beans

| No, THIS TME, ~ | we’ FLY Down!)

if, i] & .) \ i) ae | i, YOU UELY, STUPIP | | YOULL ] YOU FIGHT FOR \/ D e} I (J ) 4) 1/7) N — WEAKLINGS. NEVER 1 GREED AND & I) ™ LMS (IN) > STOP ME! ] POWER. WE’RE i Wey I | Yh , \\ : /f4 FIGHTING FOR iL ANAS {LEN ;

JUSTICE!

MM) My APP IS pee | FLAWLESS. |

NS) TCONTEOL Ye AILLIONS Og A THE UPLIFTERS ARE

, i MORE FOWEKFUL 1 a THAN YOU THINK. a SSS ee

vo..48 N06 »® Brilliant Star 13 �[Page 14]Celebrating the

200" Anniversary of Baha’u'llah’s Birth

hy are we here? How should we live our lives? What happens when we die? Throughout history, God has sent Teachers to help us answer these kinds of questions. Like Jesus, Buddha, Muhammad, and other Messengers of God before Him, Baha'u'llah brought divine teachings for our age. The religion He founded, the Baha'i Faith, offers a message of peace, unity, and hope. Baha'u'llah was called Mirza Husayn-‘Ali when He was born in Tihran, Persia (now lran), in 1817. As a child of a wealthy nobleman, He didn't attend school, yet He was remarkably wise and could talk about difficult religious teachings with Muslim leaders. “Baha’u'llah,” the title He would later take, means "Glory of God" in Arabic. Baha'u'llah was always kind and generous. As a young man, He was offered an important job in the government, but He didn't accept it.

November 12,1817,_1

1844 Birth of Baha’u'llah in Tihran, Iran. His home in Tihran is shown here.

Recognizes the Bab as a new Messenger of God

Instead, He chose to share His time and money with those in need. People called Him "Father of the Poor."

Vision in a Dungeon

When He was 27, Baha'u'llah became a follower of a new Messenger of God known as the Bab, which means “the Gate." The Bab taught that another Messenger would soon come to lead the world to unity.

Islamic authorities wanted to stop the Bab and His teachings. They executed Him in 1850. His followers, called Babis, were persecuted terribly. More than 20,000 were killed.

In 1852, Baha'u'llah was put

in heavy chains and thrown into a dungeon called the “Black Pit" with other Babis. Each day, a Babi was pulled from the dungeon, tortured, and executed. Baha'u'llah's family feared He would be killed. Their home was ransacked, and they were

forced to flee.

“Black Pit” of Tihran. The “X” marks the site of the prison.

1853-1863 Imprisonment in the Exile in Baghdad, lrag. From

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

Baha'u'llah spent four months in the filthy, vermin-infested Black Pit. Even in these miserable conditions, Baha'u'llah's spirit soared. It was during this time that He had a mystical experience that would change His life. He saw a vision of a radiant maiden, who called Baha'u'llah the “Best- Beloved of the worlds." He later wrote that "the breezes of the All-Glorious were wafted over Me, and taught Me the knowledge of all that hath been." After this vision, Baha'u'llah began to reveal holy writings.

Unstoppable Mission When He was released from prison, Baha'u'llah was banished from His homeland. He went to Baghdad, Iraq. Still, He continued to share His

message of unity. He taught that the human race is one family and religion should bring peace, not war. He called on all people to work for the betterment of the world.

April 22, 1863 Declares Divine Mission

as Prophet-Founder of the Baha’ Faith

14

Brilliant Star *% vol48 NO6

Photo of the Black Pit courtesy of Baha'i Publishing Trust U.S. �[Page 15]“So powerful is the light of unity that it ean illuminate the whole earth” —Baha’u'llah

“All men have been created to carry forward an ever-advancing civili- zation," He wrote. In time, He announced that He was the Messenger of God Whom the Bab had foretold.

For the rest of His life, Baha'u'llah lived in exile or imprisonment in what are now Iraq, Turkey, and Israel. His family shared in His sufferings. At times, they endured strenuous journeys, had very little food, lived in cramped quarters, and faced prejudice and hostility from those around them. The government thought that by sending Baha'u'llah away, they could stop His teachings from spreading.

But Baha'u'llah’s divine mission for a peaceful world was unstoppable.

His exiles only carried the seeds of His Faith even farther. Baha'u'llah wrote more than 100 volumes of letters, tablets, and books. When He passed away in 1892, He left a written will naming His eldest son, ‘Abdu'l-Baha, as leader of the Baha'i Faith.

1863-1868 — Exile in Constantinople (Istanbul), then Adrianople (Edirne), Turkey, where He lives

in this home for one year. He begins writing to kings and rulers in 1867, urging unity.

At right is Arabic calligraphy meaning “Ya Baha’w'l-Abha” or “O Thou Glory of the Most Glorious!” It refers to Baha'u'llah.

Making a Vision Real Baha'u'llah's writings, along with those of the Bab and ‘Abdu'l-Baha, make up the sacred Baha'i scriptures. The Baha'i writings also include the words of Shoghi Effendi, ‘Abdu'l-Baha's grandson who led the Faith after his passing, and the Universal House of Justice, the elected council that guides the Faith today.

More than five million Baha'is around the world strive to make Baha'u'llah's vision of one unified world a reality. They will celebrate the 200th anniversary of Baha'u'llah's birth in 2017, and of the Bab's birth in 2019. These twin holy days will, in the words of the House of Justice, honor “those divine Figures Who set in motion an irresistible process of individual and social change."

Baha’'llah’s Message of Peace

Baha'u'llah shared these teachings about building peace. Imagine what the world will be like when these principles are widely practiced.

¢ We are one human family ¢ World religions are

from one God ¢ Prejudice must end ¢ Women and men are equal « Education for all

Economic justice

¢ Harmony of science and religion

1868 _ |

Last exile to prison-city of ‘Akka, Israel. After nine years, He was able to live in the countryside homes of Mazra’ih and then Bahji, outside ‘Akka.

May 29, 1892 ,_1

Baha'u'llah passes away and is laid to rest in this shrine at Bahjf, in Israel.

October 22,2017

Global community honors 200th anniversary of Baha'u'llah’s birth

vo..48 Noé6 # Brilliant Star 15 �[Page 16]

Connect with kids around the world! How are they like you? How are they bbacoqseleaet To some eee meds L haps story to tell. What’s yours?

| live in: Massachusetts, U.S.

| want to be:

Maybe a pediatric >

orthodontist...

This career interests me

because: I like helping people. ¥

When I was younger I had to get some things done to my teeth and my dentist was very kind...

Virtue | admire most: Kindness wif

Favorite pet: ya

Suri, my dog

Favorite food:

Ilove the Persian stews

my Mom makes. Hobbies or sports:

Reading, acting, playing

[the] flute, hiking

A hero or role model:

I see all my relatives as role models. They’ve gone through really hard times to get to the life they have now...

Favorite Baha’i activities: Ilove my Sunday School!

What gives me hope:

My family and friends ... Also my social studies class—so many things went wrong in history, and we were able to learn lessons from those events... If people then could get past these large barriers, so can we!

Age: 12

| live in: South Carolina, U.S.

| want to be: Businessman a

This career interests me because:

Iam good with money and always had an interest in different types of businesses...

Virtue|admire most: Dewy

Patience Vv

Favorite Baha’! activities: Helping teach children’s classes and participating in junior youth [groups]

A hero or role mode!: My dad

|am grateful for: Going to school...

Hobbies or sports: eh Soccer

Age: 12

| live in: Texas, U.S.

| want to be:

Something most likely having to do with the outdoors.

This career interests me because:

Ilove camping and hiking.

Virtue | admire most: Forgiveness, because we can never accept the past and work towards a better future if we do not learn how to forgive.

Place |’d love to visit: Netherlands

To be a world citizen means:

Everyone is equal, and no matter who they are, they are a person just like yourself.

What gives me hope: Later on in the world, there will be peace and world unity.

If | could volunteer anywhere: I would goto... the [Baha’i World Centre] in Israel...solcan help create the beautiful gardens there...

Favorite Baha’i activities: Junior youth group

A hero or role mode!: Malala Yousafzai

A favorite animal: *

I like okapis and capybaras.

lam grateful for:

A free education, because not everyone in the world has that chance.

To be a world citizen means:

Having an open mind about all cultures and religions ... also

... helping the world in any Way you can.

What gives me hope: Iremind myself that God has a plan...also ... that the world may seem bad, but happiness can still be found within it.

16

Brilliant Star »% vol48 NoO6 �[Page 17]Gh —

Ella Zamani i.

Age: 11

Favorite animal or pet:

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

ae Aes My dogs eign ° ‘ ay

eS s ies a verily the light thereof shall brighten could time-travel, |’ 5 ] WRAL | Dah | want to be: A doctor Nc ome ‘a the whole world!” — ‘Abdu’l-Baha = This career interests me Howtechnology )ag@ Ye because: has changed ™ I would like to help heal people. Ifl could volunteer anywhere: a ¢y Iwould goto Haifa Age: 12

Virtueladmire most: ”* [Israel] and serve at nee pele Kindness theBahalvehrines | live in: Washington, U.S.

Hobbies or sports: Gymnastics, DIY’s

Favorite Baha’i activities: Fundraisers

A hero or role model: Malala Yousafzai

pare

| like to help people by: Donating to nonprofits When a friend feels down: [I] try talking to her and ... help her focus on the good things in her life.

Place I'd love to visit: London

Theo Norris Age: 10 | live in: Virginia, U.S.

| want to be: LEGO [model] designer

This career interests me because:

I love LEGO [bricks] Virtue | admire most: bs Kindness a cg

Hobbies or sports: Reading, LEGO [bricks], and soccer

Favorite Baha’ activities: Ayyam-i-Ha*

Favorite animal or pet: Cats and my guinea pig

Place I'd love to visit: Africa

| like to help people by: Making them laugh

A hero or role model: A ‘Abdu’l-Baha x

What helps me feel close to God:

Saying prayers and reading [Baha’i] * writings

A favorite food: A - Ketchup ;

lam grateful for: Walking

When a friend feels down: [I] make them laugh.

What givesme hope: Praying |

AY

If | could time-travel, |’d want to see:

How many Baha'is there are

If | could volunteer anywhere: I would go to Africa and teach the [Baha’i] Faith.

“Ayyam-i-Ha is a festival of hospitality, charity, gift giving, and preparing for the Baha'i Fast. “Definition of a Baha'i from ‘Abdu'l-Baha

| want to be:

Author, chef, actress, * game developer, LEGO Master [Model] Builder

This career interests

me because:

I have many interests and want to try them all! Favorite Baha'i activities: [Junior youth] groups and singing and playing guitar at holy days and Feasts

A favorite food: Tofu Banh Mi

What gives me hope: The knowledge that things can change, there are people helping make that change, and that I can be one [of] them.

Favorite animal or pet: I love foxes and raccoons.

Virtue | admire most: Flexibility and kindness

To be a world citizen means: I think it is best said in the following quote: “to love all the [world]; to love humanity and try to serve it; to work for universal peace and uni- versal brotherhood.”**

What helps me feel close

to God:

I witness everyday miracles around me in nature, and when I pray I feel that my prayers are answered even [if] it’s not answered in the way I thought it would turn out.

+ FA

wi . a

w

1. If you're age 7-14, go to www. brilliantstarmagazine.org. From the top menu, choose “Discover.” Then click “Become a Radiant Star or Trailblazer,” and fill out the form. Or e-mail us at brilliant@usbnc.org. Include your name,age, 4 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 copies, low-resolution digital images, or copyright- protected images (like school portraits). x »

voL.48 No6 » Brilliant Star

we

17

�[Page 18]Hannah Miller-Thom

Age: 11

| live in: ) ‘

North Carolina, U.S. | want to be: A singer

This career interests me because:

Iam always singing or humming.

Virtue | admire most: Integrity

Hobbies or sports: Playing basketball and read[ing]

| like to help people by: When I see someone is sad, I tell them life will get better soon, so put this day aside...

A hero or role model:

My great-grandmother Bahi—she is the best, she loves everybody.

She has experienced life

challenges in Iran and

knows so much about it.

Joshua Vare

Age: 9 ap

| live in: California, U.S.

| want to be: Jail commander or engineer

This career interests me because:

My papa works as a jail command[er] and it seems fun. I would like to be an engineer because I love to build.

Virtue | admire most: Generosity «l

Favorite Baha’i activities: Feast** and children’s classes

%

|am grateful for: % My family, because they love me andI love them so much.

To be a world citizen means:

To be responsible to make the world a better place each day

What gives me hope:

I think someday we all [will] become better people...

If | could time-travel, |’d want to see:

[That] all the world is beautiful and people are happy and love each other

A hero or role model: My sister

Favorite animal or pet: The wolf and... my dog, Pearl

| like to help people by: Doing community service such as Earth clean-up

If | could time-travel, |’d

want to see:

What happens... when anew Messenger of God comes...

If could volunteer anywhere: I would go to Somalia and... give out food and water.

What helps me

feel close to God:

Talking to Him through prayer. I know God exists because Baha’u'llah... talked to us about God.

Ivan Plocher

-

| want to be: Egyptologist

Age: 10 | live in: Texas, U.S.

This career interests me because:

Ancient Egypt is cool, and I might as well have my year of service at a dig site while I’m at it.

Virtue | admire most: Empathy x

Hobbies or sports: * Karate, X-Wing (game), LEGO [bricks]

Favorite Baha’i activities: Planning holy days. I was on the Naw-Ruz* planning committee in my community, which I really enjoyed.

What gives me hope:

The fact that I

have friends

Soraya Moritz

Age: 10 ye

| live in: Washington, D.C.

| want to be: Genetic biologist -*

This career interests me because:

Iam interested in finding a new species.

Virtues | admire most: Creativity and humor

Hobbies or sports: Soccer, art, dancing, reading, climbing

Favorite animal or pet: My favorite animal is a polar bear, and I love my dog, Trixy!

lam grateful for: a Being able to live in

a clean house with running water and food. Also getting to go to school and... having a loving family that

can keep me healthy.

A hero or role model: i My teacher, Ms. Jorgenson

To be a world citizen means: Believing that prejudice of any sort is an affront to humanity.

lf | could time-travel,

I'd want to see: » Whether or not they had discovered any

cryptids (Bigfoot, Loch Ness Monster, etc).

What helps me feel close to God:

For me, the spiritual ingredient to life that makes me feel close to God is laughter.

| like to help people by: Doing service projects like trash pick-ups and soup kitchens.

To be a world citizen means: You need to help the world in some way, because why would God put you on Earth if you did not have a purpose?

What gives me hope: Knowing that Iam with my family and that e they will protect me.

If | could time-travel, |’d want to see:

What [life] choices Imade

18

Brilliant Star *® vol48 No6

“Naw-Ruz is the Baha’i New Year and a holy day.

“Feast is a Baha'i community gathering with prayers, consultation, and fellowship. �[Page 19]

A A.

Perse that could instantly fix negativity in our world? Focusing mainly on negative | things squashes the joy out of life.

| When people share their ideas and feelings online,

cyberbullying Internet “trolls” may attack with hurtful

| insults or even threats. Writing comments anonymously, ii, some people sound like frightening monsters.

“In your ee conversations with your friends... to contribute to the material and spiritual welfare of others . . .

hat if we had magical spells, charms, and

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

you explore together how better " —Baha'i Writings

It’s challenging to be in difficult situations in person or online, but it does help us develop strengths. For example, dealing with bullying can foster empathy for others who are oppressed. Being treated unfairly can push us to be assertive. Cruel behavior is never okay, but while we're working on solutions, we can focus on the blessings in our lives. That attitude of gratitude can truly work magic for ourselves and others.

In this Frightening Forest, match each troll peal the magical mixture that eae ie

voL.48 No6 % Brilliant Star 19 �[Page 20]pe tt & HHOMBUS:

SPACE FOR COOPERATION

“What wondrous technical advances have been made... and what stupendous inventions have appeared.” —‘Abdu'l-Bahd

(0: Earth friends! It’s Zeke and Rhombus, from from 18 countries have been here.

planet Zilizag, on board the International Space As we travel the universe in search of peaceful planets,

Station (ISS). We're orbiting 249 miles (400 km) Rhombus and | love to visit the ISS and see how space above Earth. This is one of our favorite spots in the universe. scientists work together. The astronauts speak different Why? Because it’s a great example of cosmic cooperation. — languages and come from diverse cultures, but they're all Parts of the ISS were built on different continents and put — doing research to help humanity. If peace works in space, together for the first time in space! More than 225 humans _it can work anywhere! Do svidaniya!

Find these nine items that help astronauts work together in space. Watch out for decoys.

xs &£ewe

c og D a te ws 4 - TING XS ’ T > = ri’, 7S . \ , ) = ; ( = x SLX @|| G@ »\) >) C as SF © 9 _ 1 // // »* @ o \ Ko py : So 7 fe 2 ‘\_ Gras ee M0 /¥ i . 4 P 5 9 A Be y 20 Brilliant Star % vo1.48 No6é

Italian: Ciao = Hello; Russian: Do svidaniya = Goodbye ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 �[Page 21]eg a. Q OKNlo AL Niro OOD S I) ne) is 00 - VY Sy ANN iff O, 1fe) Ht A XH BE | sa RN R\ | Hy ff O1 ey fj 4 NY Ne, "AP - sl} SRERKO f Y I

Of OS YS

Yay

- >

Li Ae N

Imagine our world at peace Tell a friend what you admire about them Take a walk in nature Change a negative thought to a positive Write 10 things you’re thankful for

Smile and wave at the neighbors

ey, 2. Make up a new dance mm! M Op yo ye KP Aska friend about hopes for their future sss Se 1 A.

1

| AAD Rasy o£ 1H O Hey

ie QA

Call an elderly relative to say hello Watch the sunrise or sunset Plant a tree

Learn “Hello” in six languages Give your teacher a homemade card Look at your favorite photos List five things you want to learn Say a prayer for peace

Stop and feel the warm sun on your skin

diug a parent or sibling

Investigate a job you'd enjoy

“Create in me a pure heart, O my God, and renew a dy tranquil conscience within me, O my Hope!” —Bahd’u'llah

wane

i VY me

CG oO

AXES UX ni XY NX d _ o J a8 +5 3

©

Gi See S co

i

DQ OA CS

(raw your favorite place Play a game with friends Volunteer at a soup kitchen [ist three life goal Take a long look at the stars Sing a song with your siblings Cook or invent a new recipe List three of your accomplishments Collect food for a food bank Loan a favorite book to a friend Memorize an uplifting quote See how many birds you can spot Ask your parents how you can help Gaze at the moon Write a poem about your hopes Find a hopeful story in the news

Learn a new joke

Art by jsabirova

voL.48 No.6 % Brilliant Star al �[Page 22]a EL) N << O a ~ — Y

Roya Akhavan

j

Q: How did growing up ina

Baha'i family affect you?

Growing up in a Baha'i family

allowed me to always feel empowered that | could do anything that | wanted to do... The Baha'i teachings of nobility of human beings and equality of women and men and excellence in all things and service to humanity... grounded me ina really positive perspective.

With so many conflicts in the

world, what gives you hope for the future of humanity?

What gives me hope is... there

is a very strong, constructive, hopeful process that [is] moving forward. More and more young people ... consider themselves as world citizens. They are concerned about others. They are searching for a noble purpose. They care about the planet.

oes speaking in front of a big audience make you nervous? When Roya Akhavan was a six-year-old living in Tihran, lran, she memorized a long poem and recited it at a charity event attended

by 400 people. She says that experience helped her realize that God had given her gifts she could use to serve humanity. Even at a young age, her public speaking ability helped raise money for the poor.

With a passion for learning, Roya earned a doctorate degree in mass communications. As a professor at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota, U.S., Roya inspires students to be responsible, truthful media professionals. She also gives talks on topics like eliminating the root causes of war. Her recent book, Peace for Our Planet: A New Approach, explores how positive ideas like world unity are replacing old ways of relating to others.

Left: Roya, at about age 4, with her parents and older brother, Aramesh, in Iran. Right: By age 8, Roya already had experience with public speaking.

What was your most challenging experience as a kid, and what

did you do about it?

Persecution at school for being a Baha'i in Iran. | was sometimes made

fun of or bullied by other students, or even some of the teachers ... | tried to remain kind and resilient and teach by example... These experiences taught me that when we have a clear and positive vision of what we are working toward, we can withstand any obstacle...and not get discouraged.

How can we promote peace?

[To] learn and really internalize the teachings of the Faith and actually put

them into action in [our] relationships with everyone... Always try to be helpful, always try to set a good example, be resilient and not lash back at people who may ... not be kind .. . | think we are very, very fortunate to have the example of ‘Abdu'l-Baha and all the stories about him...

22

Brilliant Star *% voi48 No6

Portrait by Jasmin Kemp �[Page 23]

Answers with an

Q: What is mass communications, and why is it an important field to study?

It covers all of the mass media

which, you know, before the age of the Internet, included newspapers, radio, television, movies .. . public relations, advertising ... social media... It affects every aspect of our lives... Consumers of media... need to know about it so

that they can really become independent investigators of the truth ... Media professionals [need to know] how to be responsible communicators. . .

What do you love about your job?

It's very rewarding to be able to help students . . . advance in their careers and realize their gifts and fulfill their potential ...[ try... to encourage them to really thoroughly investigate the truth for themselves and to also realize that the goal is not just to get a job, but to be of service to their community or to other people...

Q:

A:

>

For all of the kids to know that we have been created noble and our

In the lounge at St. Cloud State University’s campus radio station, Roya

meets with mass communications graduate students.

Your book talks about the process humanity is going through to achieve peace. Tell us about it.

History has been moving in two separate and parallel processes:

one is positive and constructive, and the other is negative and destructive ... Positive things in the world are gaining momentum, and... negative things are gradually falling away... The destructive process can be frightening, but if we focus on the constructive process, then we can feel empowered to help build communities . . . that reflect racial and gender equality, religious harmony, a sense of oneness with all of humanity...

In this issue of Brilliant Star, we're honoring the 200th anniversary

of the birth of Baha'u'llah. What impact do you think this event will have on the world?

There [are] always mysterious spiritual forces that are operating, and there are certain occasions at which they seem to be intensified . . . | expect that this year will have that kind of potency... The whole Baha'i world is planning all of these wonderful activities and .. . people have all these questions, and they are searching . . . So | think the international Baha'i community is trying to... plan... many occasions for... these elevated and meaningful conversations to take place.

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

purpose is to realize that nobility by serving others... Our talents and gifts come from God, not from us, and... they are given to us so that we cultivate and develop them to do good things and to make the world a better place. So if we can really understand that, then we will feel empowered, and we will have self-esteem, but be very humble at the same time.

23

voL.48 No6 % Brilliant Star �[Page 24]

Climbing with Confidence

\ “Lift up your hearts above the present and look with eyes of faith into the future!” —‘Abdu'l-Bahd y

ou’re pumped as you set out to climb Majestic determination to succeed—even if it takes a few tries. When Mountain. But on the way up, you reach some obstacles arise, instead of wishing things were easier, let Z tricky, treacherous rocks. What do you do? your positive attitude help you find an alternate route.

Similar to scaling up a mountain, trying to achieve your Below, draw yourself achieving your goal. Will it be dreams can be a difficult climb. Along with skills, you'll need winning a sports trophy, doing a musical performance, hope. Hope can inspire you to do your best and give you the or something else?

[4 Write one of your goals on the mountain peak’s flag. On the smaller flags, write fie the names of the people, virtues, or actions that help guide you toward your dreams. eee

�[Page 25]WHAT po YOU say?

hen you're asked about the Baha’ Faith, what Sometimes it’s scary to talk about your religion or do you say? How do you talk about Baha'u'llah __ beliefs. If you feel nervous, you can say a quick, silent and His message of peace? prayer for help. Think about a simple response, and When a religion is new like the Baha’ Faith, it can be speak from your heart. If you don’t know the answer, hard for people to understand or accept it. It’s only 174 be honest. Tell the person you'll find out and let them years old. Christianity is about 2,000 years old, and know later. Share what you do know and love, without Buddhism is over 2,500 years old. any attachment to how tt is received. WHO WAS BAHA’U/LLAH? I’VE NEVER HEARD OF HIM. IN THE 1800’S, HIS NAME MEANS ena a BAHA’U'LLAH “GLORY OF GOP.” \ BROUGHT GOP’S | oR | HE TAUGHT THAT ALL MESSAGE OF PEOPLE ARE FART OF PEACE AND UNITY. ONE HUMAN FAMILY.

WRITE WHAT YOU WOULD Say:

THERE ARE MORE THAN WE BELIEVE THAT FIVE MILLION BAHA‘'S, ALL ALL RELIGIONS OVER THE WORLD. WE WORK [OK | ARE PART OF ONE FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE. | | FAITH FROM GOP.

WRITE WHAT YOU WOULD Say:

, WE’RE ALL PART OF ONE | | BAHA’(S BELIEVE SIE REBICT ORIEN FAMILY AND FAITH. ALL [ oR | HEAVEN \S WHEN

SOULS GET CLOSER TO YOUR SPIRIT \S

GOP AFTER WE DIE. CLOSE TO GOP.

WRITE WHAT YOU WOULD SAY:

voL.48 No6 ¥ Brilliant Star 25 �[Page 26]uch of what we know about early Baha'i Meen we owe to the poet and historian Nabil-i-A‘zam.

Nabil was born in Zarand, Persia (now Iran) in 1831. He received a simple education and worked as a shepherd in his youth. But he was keenly interested in religion. He meditated at night under the stars, and while herding his sheep, he prayed for God to lead him to truth.

When Nabil was about 16, he learned about the Bab, a Messenger of God Who taught that a new Messenger would soon appear. Nabil embraced the Babi Faith.

Spreading the Word

Nabil transcribed the Bab’s writings and traveled to share His peaceful message. But religious and government leaders felt threatened by the growing Babi Faith. Like thousands of Babts, Nabil was soon imprisoned for his beliefs.

The Bab Himself was imprisoned for about two years, and then His execution was ordered. The Bab was martyred on July 9, 1850.

The Babis were distraught and confused. For a time, Nabil thought he was the Bab’s successor and claimed leadership of the community. But when Nabil encountered Baha'u'llah in Baghdad,

he realized that Baha'u'llah was the Promised One.

Nabil withdrew his claim and became a devoted follower. In 1863, Baha'u'llah announced that He was the Messenger that the Bab had foretold. Nabil traveled far and wide, sharing the Baha’t Faith. In 1868, he tried to negotiate the release of Baha’ prisoners in Egypt, but he was imprisoned

himself. After his release, he traveled to ‘Akka (in what is now Israel) to be near Baha’u'llah. Nabil was a gifted poet, and he wrote many poems for Baha'u'llah. He described the divine love between the Bab and Bahda'ullah, though the Messengers never met in person: “If the branches of every tree were turned into pens, and all the seas into ink, and earth and heaven rolled into one parchment, the immensity of that love would still remain unexplored, and the depths of that devotion unfathomed."

Chronicler of Baha'i History

Nabil is best known for his moving accounts of Babi and Bahai history. Writing in ‘Akka in 1887-88, he recorded stories of the Bab, Baha’ullah, and their followers, including many who suffered persecution and martyrdom. Some of these heroic tales were translated as The Dawn-Breakers: Nabil's Narrative of the Early History of the Bahai Revelation. Nabil's full account has not yet been published in English. When Baha'u'llah passed away in 1892, Nabil became terribly sad. His anguish and grief overtook him, and he drowned himself in the sea. In the Bahai Faith, like other religions, suicide is forbidden. It is up to God to determine the length of a person's life. Still, Baha'ullah’s son, ‘Abdu'l-Baha, praised Nabil's life, saying, “This distinguished man was erudite, wise, and eloquent of speech. His native genius was pure inspiration, his poetic gift like a crystal stream... Upon him be abundant blessings; upon him be tender mercies.”

Brilliant Star *% \voL.48 No6

26 �[Page 27]

G Z ZA Uys} YHA Zy GZ Z YW an the way we think help the environment? is a key to caring for our global home. Yes! Our thoughts influence our actions, and our The changing climate creates serious problems for actions lead to change. If you sincerely believe that Earth’s people, animals, and habitats. It can be easy caring for our planet is crucial, your actions will shine. to let negativity get you down. But we have to take But if you don’t really believe that helping Earth is positive steps and inspire others to do the same. An

important, and your actions are half-hearted, what will optimistic attitude motivates all of us to work for a be the results? Keeping a truly positive, hopeful outlook healthier world.

One of these kids has a hopeful view about caring for the environment, but the other

isn't sure. Match each negative thought to the positive thought that can overcome it. rey Se: er ( CLIMATE CHANGE WON’T AFFECT ME, SO IT’S NOT | aa aie

J IMPORTANT. 6 LLOVE SEEING PEOPLE CARE FOR OUR EARTH! (|

MOST PEOPLE DON’T CARE AB t= e ae Bon USE MY SKILLS AND TALENTS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. ( IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT WE 70. EARTH Bes eh SVOONED. | +> @ IF I USE REUSABLE THINGS, MY FRIENDS INGHT TRY TO ALSO. (— x AOD RECICLING 1S APAIN. 15 IT WORTH IT? ( AA ote

mute o T LOVE ANIMALS! I WANT TO PROTECT THEIR HOMES. ( }

lit

C& “ES 1 VON’T WANT 10 BE THE ONLY KID WITH _— ho AREUSABLE LUNCH Bee @ [PAVE HOPE THAT IF We WORK TOGETHER. Z WP -a— > WE CAN MAKE EARTH HEALTHIER. C) Fy SCIENTISTS AGREE CLIMATE CHANCE IS REAL Cy

AIK ~* SO MANY ANIMALS ARE ENDANGERED.‘ ~ THERE’S NO WAY WE CAN SAVE THEM ALL. J) VA xt 1 DON’T EVEN KNOW FOR SURE

5 IF CLIMATE CHANGE IS AREAL PROBLEM—WHY BOTHER TRYING TO FIX IT? wai. SSG © THIS IS A WASTE OF TIME. THE PARK WILL jy, ,

7 JUST BE FULL OF TRASH NEXT WEEK. \ Ps et

MY

GD ONE PERSON CAN’T MAKE A DIFFERENCE. WHY TRY? = anes _ AND WE HAVE TO 70 SOMETHING ABOUT IT!

ECYCLING IS EASY, AND THE MATERIALS IMAKE AMAZING THINGS. (|

THIS PROJECT TAKES TIME, BUT PEOPLE MAY CHANGE THEIR HABITS AND KEEP THE PARK CLEAN.

. WE HAVE TO SLOW DOWN CLIMATE _CHANGE—IT IMPACTS EVERYONE!

A

ba

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 voL.48 No.6 w# Brilliant Star a7 �[Page 28]

OSMO'S CORNER

s

Look for clues throughout the magazine.

C

4. When talking about your beliefs, speak from your ae. (p25)

<4 _ 6.No matter what, choose positive paths on your of life. (p. 29)

10. Luna tells Elka Ego that the justice. (p. 13)

are fighting for

13. During a solar , the moon passes exactly in

front of the sun. (p. 11)

14. Baha'i teachings say that women and men are (p. 15)

15. Our thoughts influence our .(p. 27) 16. Both Hannah and Soraya list as a hobby. (p. 18) 17. Nabil-i-A‘zam meditated under the .(p. 26)

ah Les Leb

Brilliant Star is a great magazine for kids. | love all of the different activities... When | read Brilliant Star, | feel anchored and rooted to the Baha'i world. [One challenge | have is] fitting in at school. | am one of the only Baha'is at my school, and | don't celebrate the same holidays as most of the other kids at school. —Elsa Bishop, age 9, Georgia, U.S.

HOW DOES AN ASTRONAUT GET AHNRCUT?

cD

1. Tiernan’s service project is called “Hartford Bags of

.” (p. 2)

2. Roya says there are “always are operating” in the world. (p. 23)

3. The ISS is the International Station. (p. 20) 5. Famous for their nighttime songs (p. 9)

7. The attitude of others. (p. 19)

8. People can

spiritual forces that

can work magic for ourselves and

what seems impossible. (p. 6)

9. The virtue that Samantha, Ella, and Theo admire most is

pees ==, (Op lOn 17) 11. Maya plans to .(p. 10)

12. There are many beautiful ways to express our for peace. (p. 3)

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

Page 3: 1) harmony, 2) hope, 3) respect, Page 19: 1) Fearful Fingan, 2) Negative

4) blessings, 5) compassion, 6) gratitude, Nogga, 3) Rude Rupin, 4) Stubborn Stubzo, 7) patience, 8) community, 9) encouragement, 5) Bored Brutus, 6) Sorrowful Sagrid,

10) prayer, 11) reflection 7) Hateful Hezla, 8) Lying Lizurno

Page 9: 1 at far TR, 2 at TL, 1 at TC, 3 at Page 20: Camera at BL, bike at CL, flags at TR, 1 at CL, 4 at C, 3 at CR, 1 at BL, 2 at C, gloves at CR, headset at C, laptop at BR, BC, 1 at BR experiment at CR, satellite at TR, tether at CL Page 11: Israel, Nightingale Page 27: 1) |, 2) A, 3) E, 4) G, 5) C, 6) B, 7)D,8)F,9)H

23 Brilliant Star % voi48 NO6 �[Page 29]GQMAYZEIIG

ADVENTURE FuRM AS a MoUNTaUn

rom snowy mountains to barren deserts, Baha'u'llah built. Today, that world-famous shrine and its magnificent

made many harsh journeys throughout His life. He gardens stand as a symbol of hope and perseverance. faced treacherous challenges, including persecution, We all face difficulties that can seem as daunting as steep, imprisonment, exile, and poverty. Yet He never wavered in rocky trails. Spiritual teachings are like a map to keep us from His determination to share His message of peace. losing our way. We can find strength to handle life’s problems

Near the end of His life, Baha'u'llah stayed in a tent on by praying and getting support from family and friends. We

Mount Carmel in Haifa, now in Israel. He showed His son, can also practice virtues such as kindness and patience. No

‘Abdu'l-Baha, where the Shrine of the Bab should one day be matter what, choose positive paths on your journey of life.

Help these explorers find their way up dé

the mountain paths to the Peaceful Peak.

�[Page 30]

7.

Brilliant Star

Hope for Humanity - VOL. 48 No.6

“i AN AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL 2 SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES,

ite www. brilliantstarmagazine.org

�

Brilliant Star/Volume 48/Issue 6/Text

| yd cotus[edit]