Brilliant Star/Volume 50/Issue 4/Text

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A BAHA'| COMPANION FOR YOUNG EXPLORERS

. Brilliant Star ,

www.brilliantstarmagazine.org |, \ VOL. 50 NO. 4

BUILD UNITY IN YOUR FAMILY

DO YOU SEE THE BEST IN OTHERS?

Se : 5 ee rn ene eee aerials ase �[Page 0]salty DS al MEN

Amethel Parel-Sewell EDITOR/ CREATIVE DIRECTOR C. Aaron Kreader DESIGNER/ILLUSTRATOR

Amy Renshaw — SENIOR EDITOR

Heidi Parsons ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Katie Bishop ASSISTANT EDITOR

Darcy Greenwood ASSISTANT EDITOR

Foad Ghorbani PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Lisa Blecker ARTIST & WRITER Donna Price WRITER

Dr. Stephen Scotti STEM EDUCATION ADVISOR MANY THANKS TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS: Erfan Ballew + Jamie Rappaport Clark « Susan Engle Adayna Fozdar « Khaia Gordon » Wendy Lawrence Layla Love + Tristan Mejia « Kian Moainie

Kylee O'Keeffe + Coral Padfield + Cion Pakzad

Dr. Michael Penn + Layli Phillips - Mateen Pourjafar Kylie Reimers » Vanessa Rivera » Zachary Staszewski Carmel Tebyani + Emily Treiber

ART AND PHOTO CREDITS

Illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted

By Lisa Blecker: Watercolors on pp. 5, 13; photos on pp. 8-9

By Foad Ghorbani: Art on pp. 3 and 7

Historical photos courtesy National Baha'i Archives, unless noted

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS By Amy Renshaw: 11, 14, 20

By Heidi Parsons: 16, 22, 29

By Katie Bishop: 3, 4, 6, 13, 24, 25

By Darcy Greenwood: 2, 12, 19, 26, 27 By Lisa Blecker: 8, 10

By Donna Price: 5, 11, 14, 20, 28

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 Brilliant Star 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, use form at www.brilliantstarmagazine.org/permission-request or write Brilliant Star, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Teachers may photocopy pages in limited quantities for classroom use. “Brilliant Star” and volume/number or 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’i Faith is the second most widespread religion in the world, with over five million Baha'is. It was founded by the Prophet Baha’u'llah (“Glory of God” in Arabic) in 1863. Baha'u'llah taught that all people are part of one human family, and all religions come from one God. Baha’u'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 His daughter loved to serve their family.

Nur’s Nook

Make your own kite and let your spirit soar!

We Are One

Explore and care for the place we all call home.

Maya’s Mysteries What traditions does your family enjoy?

Lightning and Luna: Episode #83 The Uplifters are surprised by Prowd’s weapon.

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

Stargazer: Dr. Michael Penn He teaches about hope and resilience.

Shining Lamp: Rebequa Murphy

A world citizen who encouraged unity and service

Riley’s Rainforest Family stories can help us through challenges.

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

aMAZEing ADVENTURE

Help kids find refuge in Teamwork Tower.

ISSN 0884-3635 �[Page 1]e

NEW DESTINATIONS 5

True Paradise Find family unity in the Marshall Islands.

Quiz: Spy the Best in Your Family

Can you detect when virtues are expressed?

4 Life of the Bab: Stay in Isfahan

He was an honored guest of the governor.

i ‘5 Fin, Fur, and Feather Families

(© * Coastal animals offer clues for cooperation.

Cool Collaborations

Nur’s family has bright ideas for prayer parties.

. Magic of Family Service > Conjure unity by working together.

Hop Through Hardship

Can we learn about resilience from rabbits?

Space Ace

Scientists answer your cosmic questions.

Side by Side

_ How can teamwork sweeten your home life?

A Happy Camper Pack a positive attitude for your family trip.

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DEAR FRIENDS,

If you score a point for your team, who do you search for in the cheering crowd? If your team loses, who lifts your spirit? It's often your family, right? Parents, siblings, grandparents, and other relatives can help us handle tough times and celebrate joys.

It’s fun to take time to appreciate our family, but we can get busy with school, sports, and clubs. When we have a break, we may reach for a phone or play a video game. Constant distractions can pull families apart. To stay connected, we need to make time for each other.

In this issue of Brilliant Star, explore how you can build unity in your family. Quiz yourself to see if you spy the best in your loved ones. Try out some new family traditions. Learn about the family-focused culture of the Marshall Islands. Soar to new heights by creating a kite with Nur. And get to know Dr. Michael Penn, a psychologist and professor who travels the world to teach about hope, resilience, and equality.

When love flows in a family, it spreads to our communities and uplifts the whole world. That's a win for everyone!

LOVE, peiLANT ZIAR +t

Kids by FatCamera, Skyline by Spectrum Studio �[Page 2]

True Paradise

“They should see nothing but good in one another, hear nothing but praise of one another, and speak no word of one another save only to praise.” —‘Abdu’l-Baha

anging out with family can feel like a big hug: You can weave bonds of love in yourownfamily comforting and supportive. Family unity is when you enjoy a favorite meal, celebrate a fun a central part of life in the Marshall Islands, tradition, or play games together. Put away screens a group of over 1,200 tropical islands in the Pacific and give your loved ones your full attention. Ask _ Ocean. Marshallese culture, called manit, is based on about their day, and listen if they have challenges. family, cooperation, and hospitality. Families belong When you connect with respect and sincerity, family

to jowi, or clans, and build strong and lasting ties. time can seem like a true paradise.

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illumine an i i ual...”.. —‘Abdu'l-Baha ay

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a] Brilliant Star % voL.50 No4 “Pronounced YAG-WAY ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 �[Page 3]

re Best “Wherever you find the attributes of God " = love that person, whether he be of your TT Wo Wh a iN) Y family or of another.” —‘Abdu’l-Baha

0 you ever dream of being a daring detective? With your Your dad can’t talk right now, but he’s showing love by

powers of keen observation, you may like to spot clues preparing food for the family. Your sister’s patience is wearing

and unravel mysteries. Maybe you can’t wait to tell your _—thin, but she’s also striving for excellence in her schoolwork. family about your latest discoveries. But your dad’s distracted It can be easy to see good qualities when we're all happy with making dinner and your sister’s stressed about homework. _ and at our best. But when we get busy or make mistakes, Nobody seems to be listening. spotting strengths may take some extra inspection. Take this

You can use your skills to detect people’s virtues inaction. quiz to see if you spy the best in your family.

Circle your answers, then add up your points.

1. When family members are feeling 4. If I’m mad at a sibling, | remember low, | tell them what | admire what | love about them before about them. discussing what upset me. Often=3 + Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1 Often=3 +» Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1 2.| find things to be grateful for in 5. | forgive my family members—and my family. myself—when we make mistakes. Often=3 » Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1 Often=3 » Sometimes =2 «+ Rarely=1

3. Ifa sibling is struggling with a new skill, 6. When my feelings are hurt, | ask | tell them what they're doing well. questions instead of jumping to Often=3 » Sometimes=2 « Rarely=1 conclusions. Often=3 + Sometimes =2 « Rarely=1

7.|n a disagreement, | do my best to listen, even when |’m upset. 10. | thank family members when they Often=3 - Sometimes=2 « Rarely=1 help me out.

Often=3 + Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1 8.1 keep in mind the great qualities that

make each family member unique. 11.1 look for chances to compliment my Often=3 » Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1 parents and siblings.

Often=3 + Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1 9. When a family member isn’t at

their best, | try to understand how 12. | practice seeing the best in myself so

theyre feeling. | can see the best in others, too.

Often=3 +» Sometimes =2 + Rarely =1 Often=3 » Sometimes =2 « Rarely=1 36-28 POINTS You're a super sleuth! 27-20 POINTS You're strengthening 19-12 POINTS You're learning to detect You love solving the mystery of what your skills at spying the good in others. good qualities in others. Choose a few tips makes your family shine. Choose atip from the quiz to help. from the quiz to develop your skills.

VOL.50 No4 »% Brilliant Star 3 �[Page 4]___ Timeline

A Briet

The Life of the Bab

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

1819 October 20 Birth of the Bab in Shiraz, lran

Marries Khadijin Bagum

1843 Birth of their son, Ahmad, who soon dies

1844 May 23 Declares Divine Mission

as Prophet-Founder of the Babi Faith

1844 December __! Announces His station while on pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia

A847 duly

Imprisonment in the fortress of Mah-Ku (The Open Mountain)

1848 Aprili0 Transfer to the fortress of Chihriq (The Grievous Mountain)

1848 July

Declares His mission to leaders in Tabriz, Iran, and is punished with the bastinado

1850 July9 The Bab is martyred

in Tabriz, Iran.

n September 1846, after being banished from His home in Shiraz, Persia (now Iran), the Bab set out

for Isfahan, a city known for its wise religious leaders. Its governor was Manuchihr Khan, a trusted friend of the shah.

In Isfahan, visitors flocked to see the Bab, Who was a guest in the home of the chief priest. Even the governor met Him and was impressed by His wisdom and insight. But people's respect and admiration for the Bab led to jealousy among many of Isfahan’'s religious leaders. First, they began to spread false rumors about Him. Then they signed a letter calling for His execution.

When the governor learned of this threat to the Babs life, he created a plan to protect Him. He ordered 500 guards to escort the Bab to Tihran. He wanted religious leaders, the people of Isfahan, and almost all of the guards to believe that the Bab was being exiled. But the governor never intended to send Him away. He told his 10 most trusted guards to bring the Bab back to Isfahan in secret.

The Bab stayed in Isfahan for several months as an honored guest of the governor, who became a Babi. When he expressed concern about the Bab’s future safety, the Bab told him, “Fear not. Ihave committed Myself into the hands of God. My trust is in Him."

The governor longed to help the Bab spread His message, but he became sick and passed away. The shah learned that the Bab was still in Isfahan and asked to meet with Him.

This 19th-century engraving offers a view near Isfahan. As He neared the city, the Bab wrote to the governor, who insisted He be warmly welcomed.

But the shah's prime minister was afraid of losing his own power. He told the shah that the Bab was dangerous, and convinced him to change his plans. The shah exiled the Bab to Mah-Ku, an isolated castle in the mountains of Persia. These men thought that sending Him away would end His influence.

The long and challenging path to Mah-Ku took the Bab and His guards through the city of Tabriz. As the Bab entered, people crowded the streets in their eagerness to see Him. The city rang with their cries of “Allah-u-Akbar,” meaning “God is the Most Great.”

The Bab stayed in Tabriz for about AO days before finishing His journey to Mah-Ku. He spent the final three years of His life banished to remote regions of Persia. Though He was in prison, the power of His message continued to spread as He revealed writings that guided His followers and prepared them for the coming of Baha'u'llah.

4 Brilliant Star *% vo..s50 No.4

Engraving: duncan1890 �[Page 5]ZAIN FUR, AND FEATHER FAMILIES

acks, pods, flocks, herds—there are all kinds of animal families, just as there are diverse human families. And like us, many animals form strong family bonds, staying together for life. For instance, orcas rarely separate for more than a few hours. Animals and humans can learn how to thrive from —\ grandparents, parents, siblings, and other relatives. y, It’s great to play, eat together, look out for each other, / and develop our strengths and talents.

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WSN ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

with Mom for at leastafew , | years. We help each other, and sometimes we fo help humans. 3

Sometimes, getting along with our families can be a challenge. One big thing that helps is having empathy. When we try to understand each other’s thoughts and feelings, we build stronger bonds.

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We can have empathy for our friends with fins, y Z feathers, and fur, too. Keep your distance from animal Zs families and respect their homes, so they feel safe. oS. There’s plenty of room on Earth for us to share with all Pe

types of families.

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/ My parents ior together iy dancing. It’s Dad who carries the eggs and gives birth! There can be

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voL.50 No.4 % Brilliant Star 5

My mom wraps Hi mein _ kelp while she’s feeding, sol dott “lat aay \y

�[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, Iran

1844 Recognizes the Bab as anew Messenger of God

a cent

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.

1863 April _._|

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

0G. tee ers. | Last exile, to prison- city of ‘Akkd, Israel

1877 Finally free to live in countryside homes

of Mazra‘ih and then Bahjf, outside ‘Akka

1892 May 29 _

Baha'u'llah passes away at Bahji.

t was a joyous day when

Bahaullah and His wife,

Navvab, welcomed their only daughter, Bahtyyih Khanum, in 1846. Born into one of the wealthiest families in Tihran, Persia (now Iran), Bahiyyih Khanum's earliest memories were happy. She lived with loving parents and a kind older brother, ‘Abdu'l-Baha. She enjoyed visits to her family's home

iA. Bahiyyin Khanum wrote, “There is no greater work for one to do

upon this earth than to try and unite the hearts of the people...”

in the country, playing in the garden among flowers and fruit trees. When she was about three years old, her brother, Mirza Mihdi, was born.

Bahiyyih Khanum’ss life of ease disappeared overnight when she was six years old. Her father was unjustly arrested because of His religious beliefs. Bahd'ulllah was placed in chains in the Black Pit, one of the worst dungeons in Tihran. The family was thrown out of their home, and their possessions were

_ taken from them. They had little food.

Bahtyyih Khanum was given a handful of flour to eat instead of bread.

The family was terrified for Baha'u'llah.

While her mother and older brother went out to seek news about Him, Bahiyyih Khanum cared for her baby brother, holding him in her tired arms.

When Baha'u'llah was released from prison, He was exiled to Baghdad (now in Iraq). Bahtyyih Khanum joined her family on the terrible journey through

the mountains in the bitterly cold winter. When they arrived in Baghdad, battered and worn down, her mother's health

was poor. Eager to help, Bahiyyih Khanum learned to care for her family.

She drew heavy buckets of water from the well and served tea to guests. Baha'u'llah sometimes worked alongside her, cooking meals for

His family.

When Baha'u'llah retreated to pray in the wilderness for two years, Bahiyyih Khanum and her mother sewed Him a beautiful coat with small pieces of fine red cloth. When He returned, she said, “Our joy cannot be described as we clung to him...”

As Bahtyyih Khanum grew, she embraced every chance to be of service. Baha'u'llah recognized His daughter's tremendous capacity and entrusted her with important tasks. Calm and forgiving, her kindness transformed people's hearts and deepened their love for Baha'u'llah. She revered the “sacred influence radiating from Him."

In 1873, Bahtyyih Khanum happily joined in celebrating the marriage of her beloved brother, ‘Abdu'l-Baha, to Munirih Khanum. She was overjoyed to have a “much-loved sister” and to see her family so happy.

The trials she faced in her early years shaped Bahtyyih Khanum’ss self-sacrificing

6 Brilliant Star # vol50 No4

Photo © Baha’ International Community �[Page 7]“How sweet thy presence before Me; how sweet to qaze upon thy face, to bestow upon thee My loving-kindness, to favor thee with My tender care...” —Baha’u’llah

nature and devotion to the Baha’ Faith. She chose Leaf” and praised her unique role. In a tablet to

not to marry so she could devote her life to serving her, He wrote, “We have elevated thee to the rank

her loved ones. She nurtured her family through their of one of the most distinguished among thy sex,

exiles and searched for ways to ease their suffering. and granted thee... a station such as none other Baha'ulllah gave her the title “the Greatest Holy woman hath surpassed.”

In this illustration of the resting place of Bahiyyih Khanum, unseramble the letters to find 12 qualities she was known for.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 voL.50 No.4 x Brilliant Star 7 �[Page 8]

Uplift with Crafts: Moke & Fly Cool hites

“May this boundless love so fill your hearts and minds that sadness may find no room to enter and may you with joyful hearts soar like birds into the Divine Radiance.” —‘Abdu'l-Baha

rts and crafts are the BEST—especially when | create them with my family! From making great games to drawing cool comics, our projects give us lots of laughs and super memories. My family finds it easier to create and have fun together when we turn off our TV and other tech devices. We love to combine our talents and learn from each other’s

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1 Cut off any bendable portions of straws. Link two straws by pinching end of one straw and fitting it inside end of another. Reinforce with tape. Repeat and trim, if needed, to make a 15" (38.1 cm) straight stick.

brilliant skills. If a project takes a nosedive, we try using consultation to get it back off the ground.

One project that my whole family enjoys is making kites that really soar. On windy days, we have contests in the park to see who can fly their kite the highest or keep it in flight the longest. Ask your family to do this playful craft too. Explore how to uplift your kites and your spirits!

Youll Need

° six firm * ball of string drinking straws ° ruler e clear tape * crepe paper streamers ¢ 11" (28 cm) squaresheet . markers of wrapping paper * optional: paint pens

• scissors

2 Repeat Step 1to make second stick.

Brilliant Star *% vols50 No4 �[Page 9]

3 Center two sticks in a plus-sign shape on wrapping paper, so each stick end touches one of kite’s corners. Secure sticks with tape, about 2" (1.3 cm) from straws’ ends.

7 Pinch and tape end of a 2" x 20" (5.1x 51cm) strip of crepe paper to each side tip of kite, and a 2" x 30" (5.1 x 76.2 cm) strip to bottom tip of kite.

For bridle, knot end of a piece of 20" (51cm) string around the

ee qo 8 With markers or paint pens, ade virtues that most help you and your family soar.

Knot other end of bridle’s string around stick’s

end at top of kite, so about 12" (30.5 cm) of string hangs loose between knots. With tape, center and secure only top knot portion of bridle to stick.

HOL? STRING NEAK

FLY KITE IN 7 Aenean MAKE SURE

Vi HANES UPRIGHT. FLYING LINE aes se Beste

IN AN OPEN ON PRIVLE.

For flying line, knot end of ball of string to center of bridle string.

voL.50 N04 % Brilliant Star 9 �[Page 10]}

y firefly family loves to hold de-LIGHT-ful prayer parties in our neighborhood. | can’t

wait for friends to come over and share

Ny prayers. Spoken or sung, prayerful words help me feel

_ closer to God and fill me with peace.

Hosting these events takes patience, practice, and

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cooperation. To make it fun, everyone contributes by using their strengths. Since arts and crafts are my favorite, | get to make decorations. Mom and Dad like to cook, and my siblings enjoy sharing music.

Think of an event you'd like to create with your family. Discover how your collaborations can soar!

wins —————— COMPLETE TIPS. «= \6 ENCOURAGING FOR CREATING FUN |, “= |

‘ EVENTS AS A TEAM.

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10 Brilliant Star * voi50 No4

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about everyone's ideas and concerns.

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 �[Page 11]

EXPLoRE AND PROTECT THE € EARTH AnD ITS CREATURES

2 oN CRC emiceatl cco et are linked one to another.” —Bahaii Writings

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Worldwide, livestock (mostly cows and pigs) makes up 60% of FET tec EELS 183) 36%, and wild animals are only 4%.

These are Earth’s largest land animals, weighing ge about 220 pounds (100 kg) at birth! Very large . ears distinguish them from others of their kind. ; Herds of mothers and daughters stay together for life. Fill in the blanks to find their name:

PET A RI A L PHA T Images: Wildlife corridor by Pics-xl, pig by Byrdyak, J. Clark by Defenders of Wildlife, __

waterfall by Kai Parel-Sewell, animals by abadonian VOL.50 N04 % Brilliant Star 11 ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 �[Page 12]oP NHL Getnen inet: mune rcnms meno

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0 you have any family traditions? Each month, and happiness? That’s because they can help us feel ) my family hikes to the top of the mountain near supported and loved. I feel this way when I go our house. We bring a picnic and gaze at the stargazing with my family. We share stories and make stars. Sometimes we can even see the Milky Way! each other laugh. If something is stressing me out, my

Lots of people have traditions for holidays. But a siblings and parents give me advice and cheer me up. tradition can be anything special you regularly do with Enjoying nature as part of your family traditions is so your family or community, when you focus on being cool. You can learn new skills, like finding constellations. together. Did you know that traditions can boost unity Check out these ideas for making family memories!

MAKE MEMORIES Invite your family to try these nature activities. They could become new traditions!

LJ Create a “Jar of Wonders.” Have < > || fa _ (4 Ask an elder family member everyone write down amazing ee SNe about a tradition they enjoyed things seen in nature, and put Com é Re 2 } py! as a kid. Write it here: the notes in a jar. Once a week, | . take turns reading them aloud. © Build a birdhouse and hang it

outside. Keep track of the types

of birds that visit.

Camp out in a tent in your

backyard (or in the living room, and pretend you're outside). (4 Plant a garden and share your

. harvest with neighbors. Collect nature items, such as

leaves or pine needles, and use (J Host a park clean-up party. them as paintbrushes to create Whoever collects the most trash

a piece of art that represents wins a prize.

A : “et a 11 Add your own ideas: our family.

- (4 Celebrate the seasons by

Collect and paint dead tree taking a family photo in the branches for walking sticks. same spot on the first day of

spring, summer, fall, and winter.

Hold an outdoor prayer gathering, decorated with (J Go on a walk or bike ride and

flowers, leaves, and rocks. have a nature scavenger hunt.

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12 Brilliant Star % voi.50 No4 �[Page 13]

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Magic of Family Service 6

ometimes it’s tricky to come up with great neighbor together, that chattiness becomes enchanting. S ideas for family time, where everyone feels Mom’s fix-it ability may really sparkle when the food ) included and has fun. But doing a service project bank needs new shelves installed. Seeing the power with your family can be magical. your family has to make a difference keeps hope, Volunteering together helps us appreciate the charming compassion, and generosity brewing. qualities that make each of us unique. A talkative sibling When you uplift others, you can cast a spell of may be challenging at times, but if you visit a lonely unity in your family and your community.

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VOL.50 N04 % Brilliant Star 13

�[Page 14]

TIErTNING & LUNA

BAXTER ANP BRIDGET | EN ROUTE TO AEUROPEAN UPLIFTER BASE... | = ee Ey ey , a | MELA | PULSAR HERE. COMING WE’RE JUST HAPPY | | }//| HOW WAS YOUR NeBOE oe poe FONDS. i IN FOR A LANDING. TO BE OUT OF | RIVE, LUNA? coRVA. [il uoepe. THEY were [1 PROWD’S LAIR. = ‘ | eae | si | THOSE RESTRAINTS PON | SO MISERABLE. AREOR AN’ F WERE WICKED. | ~| CORDA, HOW. _ ee ARE YOU BS Suz _ |e FEELING? Se go ayo asin cn = = = (Uiwee Ay) oe ys, . iy oH ar G =—\ a a US Ni EACH ONE — | OPS aN Wi —] WAS MAVE WELCOME TO — EE as fp (ae) | 10 WEAR HARMONI, AF ~~ =O Le | VOWN OUR MOBILE BAGE. | U <<... A SPECIFIC | | FY Awesome! |/ ———— oe ip ee POWERS! ! ars ss iil am |

THEY GOT CAUGHT UP IN THE LURE OF

GREED CAN |, | TAKE OVER | ANYONE.

YEAH. GOOV REMINVER a) TO FOCUS ON WHAT’S REALLY \MPORTANT.

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Brilliant Star *% vol50 No4 �[Page 15]

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VOL.50 NO4 #® Brilliant Star 15 �[Page 16]Connect with kids around the world! How are they like you? How are they different? Each ofushasaunique y story to tell. What’s yours?

Age: 14,

| live in: Washington, U.S. | want to be:

An aeronautical engineer

This career interests me

— because:

I have always loved aircraft and enjoy designing things...

Virtue | admire most: Perseverance K

Favorite Baha’ activity: Junior youth group

Favorite animal:

Shiba Inu [dog]

rt

A hero or role model: ‘Abdw'l-Baha 44

My favorite family tradition: Our once a year “Yes Day.” Any question we ask (within reason) will be returned with a yes.

What helps me cope with a family difficulty:

Prayer, writing poetry, and connecting with the Holy Spirit

To work out conflicts with family members, |:

Talk through it and

... reach a solution that satisfies both parties

Something I've learned from an elder relative:

It is always important to question the accepted facts.

To show my family | love them, |:

Participate in activities with them

1

Layla Love

Age: 14.

| live in: South Carolina, U.S.

| want to be: Aerospace engineer

This career interests me because:

Of its discovery of new technology and how [it] is used in space

Virtue | admire most: Kindness

Hobbies or sports: Drawing...andI’mon my school’s volleyball and basketball teams

Favorite Baha’ activity: I really like organizing Baha'i service projects for our community.

To show my family | love them:

llove baking for my family.

Kylee O’Ke Age: 10

| live in: Pennsylvania, U.S.

| want to be: Orthodontist, like my mom.

This career interests me because: Iwantto...make people feel confident in their smiles!

Virtue | admire most: Kindness

Favorite Baha’i activities: Celebrating Naw-Ruz* and Ayyam-i-Ha*™ with my family!

My favorite family tradition: Our family reunions are the best. I love seeing all of my cousins.

{ What helps me cope with a

family difficulty: Writing fictional stories

To work out conflicts with family members, |:

Take some time alone to reflect and then talk about it with my family

Something I’ve learned

from an elder relative: aK My grandmother

taught me to always be kind by her actions...

A hero or role model: Ke <a My mom an What helps me cope with a family difficulty: Itry and talk to a parent or grandparent and listen to the advice they give. I also always like to say my “O God, guide me...” prayer.

To show my family | love them, |:

Always try to be kind and considerate to them, but I’m also always good for giving them a hug and kiss!

To work out conflicts with family members, |: Try to compromise...

Something I’ve learned from an elder relative:

I have learned a lot about the Baha’i Faith from my Mimi and Papa, and... about kindness.

16 Brilliant Star *% voi50 No4

• Naw-Ruz is the Baha'i New Year.

• • Ayyam-i-Hé is a festival of hospitality, gift giving, and preparing for the Baha’ Fast.

�[Page 17]x x

Mateen Pourjafar _ 2% “God has crowned you with honor and ‘gem fees A Heaiend in your hearts has He set a radiant star; | live in: New York, U.S. verily the light thereof shall brighten

Something special my .

Wao eS cton ag. family does for fun: the whole world!” = — ‘Abdu’l-Baha > This career interests me Going on road trips because: [or] watching movies I ee Pay in ie together Carmel Tebyani Pee er ings helps me cope with a Age: 10 * Virtue | admire most: family difficulty: § © iW coon eee ok Kindness mh. I think of a positive thing ee oe ve ae Hobbies or sports: that could happen. I ee Tenis cuamiming replace the bad thoughts An ophthalmologist Favorite Paha activity: with good ones. This career interests me Goinel to children’s To work out conflicts with because: eeu glto my friends family members, |: Twant to help people Wait until things cool with their sight so they What helps me cope with a A hero or role model: down, then apologize canseeandbehappy. _family difficulty: ‘Abdu’l-Baha And my mom is an To go to my room and and say I love them ymom1i : * | like to help people by: pho joe i paee Being generous...I Favorite Baha'i activities: joe F enjoyed a junior youth Feast* and children’s To show my family | love community service that classes them, |: we did by collecting Just give them a hug %

clothes and food... and Favorite animal or pet: A and a kiss...

delivering them toa Whale ane eae —— homeless shelter. A favorite food: ne : * Persian RICHI! Coe ae or realize A hero or role model: how silly the topic of a Zachary Staszewski Myon the arguments Something special my Something I've learned Age: 10 A hero or role model: family does for fun: from ane Hletive | live in: Michigan, U.S. [Actor] Rainn Wilson We gooutformommy/ Be kind to who raieaese-es ec eee What helps me cope with daughter time or ever crosses your path. a family difficulty: daddy/son time. We Treat everyone with %& This career interests me Praying then meet up... and the utmost respect, because: <a strowmny family [love share our experiences. especially your elders. Ibelievelcanusethe = Ow mY Temly arts to help empower hen : aes humanity. y mom is Brazilian, and they love hugs and Virtue | admire most: kisses. So this is how we Truthfulness a. show ... our love. 1. If you're age 7-14, go to www. brilliantstarmagazine.org. . BF oe adie cs ; From the top menu, choose “Discover.” Then click “Become ie a , aa a le ae si a Radiant Star or Trailblazer,” and fill out the form. Or y is e-mail us at brilliant@usbnc.org. Include your name, age, + Place I'd love to visit: Goaway and take birth date, mailing address, and phone number Holy Land [Israel] deep breath, try to calm down, and...talk... 2. When it’s your turn to shine, we'll send you questions

| like to help people by: When I [see] someone alone, I like to help them feel included.

Something special my family does for fun: ae We love road trips.

We love to organize for Ayyam-i-Ha.

and a form for you and your parents to sign. aS

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- y protected images (like school portraits). a )

• Feast is a Baha'i community gathering with prayers, consultation, and fellowship. VOL.50 NO4 & Brilliant Star 17

�[Page 18]Adayna Fozdar

Age: 9 | live in: Western Australia

| want to be:

% Computer scientist This career interests me because:

I love the story about

[software engineer]

Margaret Hamilton and how she programmed

... Apollo 11... to get to the moon safely. I

want to be like her and program the rocket to

go to Mars.

Favorite Baha'i activity: Ridvan* celebrations

Something special my family does for fun: Going on family

bushwalks [nature hikes] What helps me cope with a

family difficulty:

Say prayers ortalk...

/ \— ¢oxal Padfield Age: 9

| want to be: An artist

This career interests me because: I love creativity.

Virtue | admire most: i

Flexibility

Favorite Baha’i activity: Helping teach children’s classes

Place I'd love to visit: Paris

| like to help people by: Volunteering at

homeless shelters and food banks

| live in: Washington, U.S.

| like to help people by: Using my creativity. I like to help my mum with her Baha'i class preparation.

To work out conflicts with family members, |:

Have a consultation, call a family meeting

Something I've learned from an elder relative: From one of my grandmothers, I have learned a cool Persian rock game. My other grandma...helps me with my piano practice.

>

My favorite family tradition:

A hero or role model: My mom

We eat a special breakfast together every Sunday.

What helps me cope with a family difficulty:

Listening to their opinions and sharing my own. I also take some time on my own to read a book or do something else quiet.

To work out conflicts with

family members, |:

Think about why y they did what they

did and how I reacted, and... howI could act differently the next time

Something I’ve learned from an elder relative:

To have good manners and be peaceful with my siblings

Cion Pakzad Age: 8

| live in:

Pennsylvania, U.S.

| want to be: Ascientist or an artist

This career interests me because:

I love science, and drawing/painting is my thing.

Virtue | admire most: Caring

Hobbies or sports: Drawing and soccer

Favorite Baha'i activity: Feast

M

Place l’d love to visit: Africa

Favorite foods: Pizza and tacos

| like to help people by:

Telling them how to do something

Khaia Gordon <o Age: 7

| live in: Washington, D.C.

| want to be: Ascientist, doctor, ae astronomer, dancer

This career interests me because:

Science is my favorite subject, and it is fun to try new things... I want to study the stars.

Hobbies or sports: Swimming, camping,

and riding bikes Favorite Baha'i activity: Reading stories - Favorite animal or pet: Husky and chameleon Place I’d love to visit: Hawaii

My favorite family tradition: Going to our Passover seder and Thanksgiving and Christmas

Something special my family does for fun: Going on trips >

What helps me cope with a family difficulty:

I try to relax and/or meditate.

To show my family | love them, |: Hug them

To work out conflicts with family members, |:

Say, “Okay, let’s stop now.”

Something I’ve learned from an elder relative:

How to play backgammon

A hero or role mode!: Mom, Dad, and my cousin, Lily a

What helps me cope with a family difficulty:

I write them songs and poems.

To work out conflicts with family members, |:

Tell them what I don’t like, and they tell me what they don’t like, and we work it out and see what we can do

Something I’ve learned from an elder relative: If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything.

18 Brilliant Star * voi50 No4

• The Ridvan Festival honors Bahd’u'llah’s declaration of His mission.

�[Page 19]

» abbits may seem cute and fluffy. But did you know they're also smart and good at coping with a crisis? Wild rabbits watch out for each

other in groups called colonies. If a rabbit senses

danger, it thumps its back feet to warn others. When chased by a predator, it cleverly flees in a zigzag pattern to avoid getting caught. And it can run up

to 45 miles (72 km) an hour!

We can learn from rabbits and how they handle challenges. If a family member loses a job, gets sick, or i) faces any problem, you can support each other. In tough )

times, talk honestly about your feelings. | Meditate on what you’re grateful for. Focus on your family’s strengths, and think about how you've persevered in the past. Try to find things to laugh about, ; too! With love and unity, you can hop through hardship.

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D ie se) ren Saas =e »\ > isi \ = f Re on Sea TAN ir es Le Ze ¥ | ) . a

voL.50 NOo4 % Brilliant Star �[Page 20]

ASH A SPACE SCIENTIST

Our universe is full of mysteries, and some of the most mind-boggling are in space. Curious kids asked questions, and we sent them to two space scientists. Have questions about space?

Send them to brilliant@usbnc.org (with your name and age).

How are your feelings about beingin space? —Peter, age 10

Hi, Peter,

| always looked forward to being

in space. It’s hard to accurately describe what it feels like to be weightless, but itis an incredible sensation and also a lot of fun.

All you have to dois to relax your body, and you can float in the middle of the air without any effort at all. Plus, we have the opportunity to look out of our spacecratt's windows and see our planet Earth. We live on a very beautiful planet, and being able to see so much of

it from our spacecraft is an amazing experience.

—Wendy

Born in Germany in 1879, Albert Einstein made discoveries about light, gravity, space, and time.

wy s y He won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921. In § §

addition to science, he enjoyed these two things:

A) Surfing C) Soccer B) Violin D) Chess

20 Brilliant Star * voi50 No.4

Left: Wendy Lawrence (right) and James Kelly installed new equipment in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station (ISS) in 2005. Above: Wendy and her colleagues reached the ISS on the Space Shuttle Discovery.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 �[Page 21]

Whatis the closest Earth-like planet to Earth, and can we get there? —Zara, age 11

Hi, Zara,

Scientists once thought

that Mars and Venus were Earth-like. However, we

were surprised when we sent spacecraft to study them. The first close-up pictures showed Mars as a barren world. Recent missions found water, so we

STEVE SCOTTI is Brilliant Star's STEM Education Advisor and a research engineer at NASA Langley Research Center in Virginia, U.S. He works to develop lighter, stronger materials and structures for aircraft and spacecraft. Watching the first

may still find life there. Venus is An artist’s conception of planet astronaut launched into space inspired covered with clouds, and space Ross 128 b, with its parent star in his interest in space exploration, and he probes sent revealed that it has the distance. enjoys sharing his enthusiasm about

a surface temperature of 880°F science and space with kids.

(471°C)! These planets are close enough to reach with robot spacecraft. We hope to land people on Mars, and it could be in your lifetime. But it may be centuries before it’s possible to visit planets outside of our solar system. To find Earth-like planets beyond our solar system, we use Earth and space observatories. If a planet is in the habitable zone around a star—also called the “Goldilocks zone”—it could have liquid water and support life. One of the closest that may be Earth-like is Ross 128 b. It is 11 light-years away. More sophisticated telescopes (such as the soon to be launched James Webb Space Telescope) are needed to learn about this planet’s ability to support life. WENDY LAWRENCE is a retired Navy —Steve helicopter pilot and former NASA astronaut. She has over 1,500 hours of flight time and has made over 800 shipboard landings. She flew on the space shuttle four times and has spent over 50 days in space. Currently, she works part- time at Space Camp and the Kennedy

N The International Space

Station was built by 16

§ countries. Two of the large

modules are named:

C) Unity and Harmony D) Saturn and Apollo

¥ A) Peace and Long Life a B) Action and Adventure

Space Center Visitor Complex, informing the public about NASA's spaceflight programs and participating in STEM education programs. .

Images: NASA, ESO/M. Kornmesser, F. Schmutzer

vo..50 No.4 % Brilliant Star al �[Page 22]STARGAZER

Q: What's your favorite childhood memory?

A: Going to the Coney Island & amusement park... we had hot dogs, we had the great ocean, we had the sea breeze, we had sand to play in, and we had rides of all kinds...

Q: What was the most challenging experience for you as a kid?

A: [It] was the embarrassment, the shame that | felt at being poor ... To get food from the city, | had to wait ona line that sometimes went many blocks. And because we had to help carry the food home, | would have to wait on line while my classmates passed, going to school... | was humiliated by that... | sort of ... hid from myself and others.

Dr. Michael Penn

hen you're feeling worried, what gives you hope? As a kid, when Michael Penn faced tough times, his mother encouraged him to trust in God and to keep praying. For a while, his family lived in an old school bus that was made into a house. Then they moved from North Carolina to New York in the U.S., where they faced poverty and violence, but were able to cope with help from a close-knit community.

In his early twenties, Michael got very sick and almost died. Afterward, he was inspired to explore many religions. He soon realized, “| am a Baha’i." Michael says that the Baha'i Faith has taught him the beauty of helping others.

He put that virtue into practice, earning a doctorate in clinical psychology from Temple University. He now teaches at Franklin & Marshall College in Pennsylvania and has traveled to about 50 countries, speaking on topics like hope, resilience, and equality. He and his wife, Kathy, live in Pennsylvania.

At about age 10, Michael enjoyed all the activity in his neighborhood in New York, including games of stickball.

Q: What got you interested in psychology?

A: In college... | went to a lecture... by a psychologist... That lecture was so electrifying, was so profound that when he finished ... in a hall of about 300 people, no one breathed a word, no one moved ... | said to myself, this is astounding. Whatever this person does, that's what | want to do...1| didn't even know what a clinical psychologist was, but | said ... that's what | would like to become, because | liked the kinds of things he was talking about. | liked the ways that he was saying them. | loved the breadth of his knowledge.

22

Brilliant Star * vols50 NoO4

Portrait by UN Leaders Programme photographer, city photo by cmart7327, art by C. Aaron Kreader �[Page 23]

Q:

A

What are some important things for a happy family life?

Families [should] talk to one

another with kindness... use their words carefully... The human heart is very delicate, very sensitive—it's strong, but it's also delicate... | have learned in my own family, it's really, really valuable if the family has quiet time together ... It might start with saying a few words of prayer together and then... sitting quietly and talking in a calm way about how everyone is doing... We're not on our electronic devices... We're really paying attention to one another...

If you had one wish for

Brilliant Star's readers, what would it be?

My wish would be that all the

Brilliant Star readers develop

a true love for people of every race and every religion and every culture and every class and every city and every nation on the Earth.

| |—hORRY \ G22) Pes wd

=

Above: In 2017, the United Nations invited Michael to speak to UN program directors about how to be more effective leaders.

Left: Michael and his wife, Kathy, were married in 1985, a few months after meeting at a Baha’i gathering.

What should a kid do if they or someone they know is dealing with

conflict or violence in their family?

Lots of families experience periods where there is conflict. So just because

there is conflict doesn't mean that children should be too worried... But if the conflict becomes violent . . . so intense that it's frightening or it's dangerous or that it's all the time, then the child should share that with someone, should let someone know that in my house, | am a little bit worried about people hurting one another .. . They could share that with an adult who they trust ... Because when there's violence in a family, the effects of that violence can last a long time and hurt the mind and... the body ... So we should not be quiet about that kind of problem.

This issue of Brilliant Star is about family unity. What are three

things kids can do to help build unity in their families?

Kids can... be as courteous as they can be to their parents. It's really

difficult being a parent... When they speak to their parents with respect ... their parents feel encouraged .. . [Kids] can... try to be helpful in the house ... And the third thing is not to pout or be angry for too long. There are lots of things that can make us upset in a family. But we should not hold on to those things too tightly ... We should be forgiving, both to ourselves and to others.

Top photo by UN Leaders Programme photographer, Kathy and Michael by Vanessa Rivera

vol.50 NO4 % Brilliant Star

�[Page 24]f you argued with your parents, would you storm off to tell a world leader about it? That's what Rebequa Murphy tried to do. When she

was six, her family visited the Soviet Union (now Russia) and met its leader, Nikita Khrushchev. Immediately charmed, Mr. Khrushchev told Rebequa to come to him if she had any problems. Later, when she disagreed with her mother, she ran to tell Mr. Khrushchev! But he couldn't meet with her, so she and her mother worked it out. Rebequa’s bold and fearless nature shone through in everything she did.

Rebequa was born in Ethiopia in 1953. Her father was an ambassador for the Ethiopian emperor, so she grew up traveling between Ethiopia, India, and the Soviet Union. She met leaders around the globe. Though he wasn't a Bahda’t, her father was a friend of Hand of the Cause of God* Abu'l-Qasim Faizi and Universal House of Justice** member Ali Nakhjavant. Her father sometimes mentioned Shoghi Effendi, but she thought he was speaking of a fellow diplomat.

Throughout Rebequa’s travels, her empathy

grew as she saw severe hardships that people

d. She wanted to help. As a teenager, she

and friends formed « an ae anage iy re te

a4 ‘Brilliant Star we VOL.50 NO.4

whose name she had heard as a kid, was actually the Guardian and head of the Bahai Faith. She explored the Faith, and within a week, at age 18, she became a Bahai.

She was devoted to the Bahai Faith, traveling all over the world to share its teachings. She said, “We must never forget the purpose for which we live— to bring about the oneness of the human family.”

Rebequa earned her master’s degree in International Development. From Brazil to South Africa to Japan, she consulted with governments to help them build peace and leadership.

Kids’ spiritual education was vitally important to Rebequa. She and her husband, Robin, raised three sons, and she consistently supported other families and kids. She often met with youth, encouraging them to find paths of service. She said, “You live ina world that divides you... intentionally associate with people who are fundamentally different than you are

.. stand up for your convictions."

Rebequa served the Bahat community in many ways, including as a representative to the United Nations. Later she was a Continental Counselor, helping to guide Bahat communities with her blend

of wisdom, devotion, and joyful laughter.

In 2008, Rebequa passed away at age 55. The Universal House of Justice praised her “fervor for teaching, her close and caring relationship with

youth, her capacity for showing genuine love and

affection... and her ability to enkindle in the hearts

of the friends the desire to serve.”

• A Hand of the Cause of God served the Baha'i community in significant ways,

including encouraging others in teaching and protecting the Faith.

• • The Baha’ Faith’s international governing body

�[Page 25]

by Side

Yous arguing with your sibling over whose turn builds bonds and helps everyone feel included.

it is to clean up after dinner. Your sibling stomps Instead of arguing over the dishes, turn the job

off, you're mad, and the kitchen is still a mess. into a game. Set a timer and see how fast you can Disunity is like a storm cloud that puts everyone finish together. When we all cooperate and do our

in a gloomy mood. But when we work together, we part, we nurture our family with joy and positivity.

help the light of unity break through. Teamwork That makes home a truly sweet home.

One family is beaming

with unity, but the other needs help. Find 12 differences between the scenes.

Tf / ie Less | dA)

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

voL.50 No.4 % Brilliant Star 25 �[Page 26]

LLOVE HEARING Yu FAMILY STORIES!

OL

Powerful Stories

San:

bs : 1 o you know any stories about

IL D your family? I know some

crazy ones about mine,

like the time my dad got lost in Papua New Guinea during a storm and had to camp in a cave of fruit bats. They were super nice and even taught him to hang upside down!

My family has fun sharing stories as we fly around the forest. It’s good for us, too. When you know about your family history, you tend to have more self-confidence, less anxiety, and a more unified family. This may be because family stories can help us feel connected to a support system, which is helpful for health and happiness.

I love hearing how my family overcomes tough situations, don’t you?

Curiosity Canopy

These stories teach us that we can learn a lot from facing challenges, which may give us courage and resilience at stressful times. It’s cool to think about

your family doing | heroic things. When

I was nervous on my first day of school, I thought of my dad’s story.

I remembered how good things can come from hard moments. | stayed positive, and pretty soon I made new friends.

Family dinners, holiday events, vacations, or even just a flight to school are great opportunities for storytime. So ask your family members about their memories. Share some of your stories, too. My dad’s story taught me to see the sunny side during stormy times. What can you learn from your family stories?

D: you know? One of the best places to share stories is at the dinner table. One study found that during dinner, families share one story every five

minutes. Kids who eat dinner with their family are also more likely to get better grades, eat healthier foods, and even have a bigger vocabulary.

Brilliant Star *% voL50 NoO4

26

“Send down... from the clouds of Thy

mercy the rains of Thy healing...” —Baha’u'llah

Explore & Soar: What’s Your Story?

AAY asking your elders these

questions to learn about

cool family stories.

co What did you like to do when you were my age?

cr What do you like best about our cultural heritage?

a What was it like on the day | was born?

cr What was your favorite birthday?

co What's an important lesson you've learned?

o What was school like for you as a kid?

a How did your parents meet?

a What's the craziest thing that's ever happened to you?

co What job did you dream of when you were a kid?

a Do we have any special family heirlooms?

o What technology did you use as a kid?

co What's the coolest place you've traveled to?

Images: Pizza by imaginasty, campfire by Solovyova �[Page 27]

“Baha'u'llah came to bring unity to the world, and a fundamental unity is that of the family.” —Baha’i Writings

t's time for your family Camping trip! You're excited didn’t forget the tents or meet a hungry bear. Your sunny

to pack up and hit the road. attitude lifts your family’s spirits. When the rain stops, But when you get to the campsite, it starts to you set up camp, then all huddle around the campfire, rain, and you forgot your umbrella. To make matters roasting marshmallows and telling jokes. worse, the tent has a hole in it and NTU MCRNIeLaC=X0 BONY Sometimes things don’t work out Like you expect. mosquitoes. Not cool! Optimism and flexibility help everyone swat FEA VAL eiSS

Instead of getting bugged, you take a deep breath of and disappointment. When you pitch in to kindle your fresh air. You stay positive and Teo} aeYO ea ea Vom (ore Kt on (0\ VT TINA joy and unity, you all can be happy campers.

On this family camping trip, match each UTED ACM ALCL TP ARAL Mn ANTM Yee Ean =Cy TW a Fey ao | replace it.

11) IT STINKS THAT THERE’S NO WI-FI. I’M SO BORED. ay I'LL TALK TO CODY ABOUT TAKING TURNS WITH THE GEAR. ( )

Y)) T HATE SETTING UP CAMP. WHY COULDN’T WE RENT A CABIN? 3) T LOVE SINGING TOGETHER, EVEN THE SILLY SONGS. @

“), THE FOOD WE BROUGHT IS WEIRP. I MISS PIZZA. (@) ITLL BE FUN TO TELL MY FRIENDS ABOUT THIS TRIP ( ) HIKING CAN BE LONG AN? HAR

“) UGH-I THOUGHT THERE WOULD BE ALAKE FOR SWIMMING. ET Ie We coerce .

S j=) UNPLUGGING HELPS ME CONNECT WITH My FAMILY. CD

9 i NC SO CHEST, WSIHO HY PHONE B same wom csr on

a C ) LWANTED TO SWIM, BUT I'LL FIND OTHER THINGS TO 70. WANTED TO SWIM, BUT I’LL FIND OTHER THINGS T0 70. (

Emam y \s mM gy IT’S EASY TO GET LOST IN ANEW PLACE.

COPY NEVER SHARES THE ee ,

WE SHOULD STICK TOGETHER.

S BINOCULARS. I’LL JUST GRAB THEM. _ ee ”

S\

Fi al VW

vOL.50 No4 ¥ Brilliant Star

�[Page 28]SMO'S CORNER

Look for Cosmo the Chameleon’s clues throughout the magazine.

CO

1. It’s cool to think about your family doing things. (p. 26)

4. Dr. Michael Penn says that the Baha’ Faith has taught him the beauty of others. (p. 22)

.(p. 27) .(p. 17)

12. Sometimes things don't work out like you expect. Optimism and help. (p. 27)

14. Unplug from and give your loved ones your full attention. (p. 2)

8. A sunny attitude can lift your family's

9. Zachary and Mateen want to be

15. Family unity is a central part of life in the Islands. (p. 2)

16. Volunteering together helps us appreciate the charming

qualities that make each of us .(p. 13)

FROM OUR MAILBOX

Brilliant Star makes me feel happy and closer to other Baha'is. [From reading it, I've learned] how many other Baha'i kids there are throughout the world. | would choose the theme unity in diversity, because | believe that everyone should be united together.

— Emily Treiber, age 12 California, U.S.

28 Brilliant Star # vo.50 No4

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2. To work out conflicts with family, Adayna has a in a family meeting. (p. 18)

3. If a rabbit senses danger, it its back feet to

warn others. (p. 19)

5. Like a , a strong family can protect us and help us develop virtues. (p. 29)

6. You can use your skills to detect people's in action. (p. 3)

7. Wildlife

10. Family can help us feel connected to a strong support system. (p. 26)

offer safe pathways for animals. (p. 11)

11. Rebequa Murphy said, "We must never forget the purpose for which we live—to bring about the oneness of the human ."(p. 24)

13. Layla, Kylee, and Carmel learned to be elder relatives. (pp. 16-17)

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

Page 2: C at C, Dat far TL, F at TC, G at TR, Pat BC, Rat TL, S at BR, T at CL, Y at TR;

“If love and agreement are manifest in a single family, that family will advance, become illumined and spiritual . . .”

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

Page 7: Heroic, kind, noble, patient, loving, cheerful, dignified, thankful, optimistic, distinguished, generous, forgiving

Page 10: 1) unity, 2) invite, 3) checklist,

4) strengths, 5) Consult, 6) Share,

7) encouraging, 8) creativity, 9) welcome

from

e

Page 11: California, African elephants Page 19: Bezzy at BL, Evie at BC, Grela at BR,

Hubie at CR, Harpo at BL, Luka at CR, Opal at TR, Parley at BC, Risa at CL

Pages 20-21: B) Violin and D) Chess; C) Unity and Harmony

Page 25: Positive: Neat bookshelf; “sweet” on sign; folding clothes; healthy plant; sharing cookie; refrigerator closed; purse on hook; full dog dish; upright vase; happy game of catch; using trash can; toys in box

Page 27: A)9, B)6, C)5, D)8, E)1, F)2, G)4, H)3, 1)7 �[Page 29]@QMAQYZEGIiG

FAMULY FORTRESS WW

MOD ATMU Net movment eme-lua Manley m ec msle sy e-llal-re mm DTM ay LU Re) MeL RSIAEI M8] considered the injury of all; the comfort of each, the comfort of all...” —Abdu’l-Baha

Ww e all have tough days. Maybe you had a hard test at Any structure, even a fortress, needs maintenance to keep school or got into a fight with a friend. It’s great to itin good shape. So do the relationships in a family. When you come home and find refuge and comfort with your family. Like — lend a hand with chores, help a sibling with homework, hug a

a fortress, a strong family can protect us and help us develop family member, or listen to their problems, you may strengthen

' virtues. Those virtues, such as unity, respect, and compassion, __ the fortress. What are some ways you show your family that are like bricks that make the fortress sturdy. you love and respect them?

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vo..so No4 »% Brilliant Star 29

�[Page 30]“Recome a5 waves of one sea, trees of one forest, growing in the

As Brilliant Star

Waves of Love - VOL.50 NO.4

‘ AN AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL 9 _ SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES

www. brilliantstarmagazine.org �