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[Page i]A BAHÁ’Í 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?

Waves of Love

[Page ii]Brilliant Star BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER 1233 Central Street, Evanston, Illinois 60201 U.S. brilliant@usbnc.org 847.853.2354 Subscriptions: 1.800.999.9019 www.brilliantstarmagazine.org Published by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States

FAVORITE FEATURES

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: photos on By Foad Ghorbani: Art on Historical photos courtesy National Bahá’í Archives, unless noted

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS

By Amy Renshaw: By Heidi Parsons: By Katie Bishop: By Darcy Greenwood: By Lisa Blecker: By Donna Price:

Bahá’u’lláh’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.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES AND RENEWALS

To order or renew a subscription, contact Bahá’í Subscriber Service: Toll-free: 1.800.999.9019/E-mail: subscription@usbnc.org Standard U.S. rates: $18 (One year); $32 (Two years) International airmail: $38 (One year); $68 (Two years) Canada and Mexico: $28 (One year): $48 (Two years)

RIGHTS, PERMISSIONS, AND CLASS USE

All content in Brilliant Star is copyrighted by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís 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 Bahá’í Faith, we encourage readers to use their virtues to make the world a better place.

The Bahá’í Faith is the second most widespread religion in the world, with over five million Bahá’ís. It was founded by the Prophet Bahá’u’lláh ("Glory of God" in Arabic) in 1863. Bahá’u’lláh taught that all people are part of one human family, and all religions come from one God. Bahá’u’lláh’s eldest son, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, interpreted His teachings and led the Bahá’í community after Bahá’u’lláh’s passing. Today, Bahá’ís work to bring love and justice to the world, and end prejudice and discrimination of all kinds.

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]

NEW DESTINATIONS

2	True Paradise Find family unity in the Marshall Islands.
3	Quiz: Spy the Best in Your Family Can you detect when virtues are expressed?
4	Life of the Báb: Stay in Isfahán He was an honored guest of the governor.
5	Fin, Fur, and Feather Families Coastal animals offer clues for cooperation.
10	Cool Collaborations Nur’s family has bright ideas for prayer parties.
13	Magic of Family Service Conjure unity by working together.
19	Hop Through Hardship Can we learn about resilience from rabbits?
20	Space Ace Scientists answer your cosmic questions.
25	Side by Side How can teamwork sweeten your home life?
27	A Happy Camper Pack a positive attitude for your family trip.

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, BRILLIANT STAR ☆ [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-Bahá

Hanging out with family can feel like a big hug: comforting and supportive. Family unity is a central part of life in the Marshall Islands, a group of over 1,200 tropical islands in the Pacific Ocean. Marshallese culture, called manit, is based on family, cooperation, and hospitality. Families belong to jowi, or clans, and build strong and lasting ties.

You can weave bonds of love in your own family when you enjoy a favorite meal, celebrate a fun tradition, or play games together. Put away screens and give your loved ones your full attention. Ask about their day, and listen if they have challenges. When you connect with respect and sincerity, family time can seem like a true paradise.

Find nine hidden letters, and use them to complete the quote.

A MARSHALLESE GREETING IS IAKWE.* NI IT MEANS, "YOU ARE A RAINBOW."

Letters found:

"I love an a eemen a in le amil ha illumine an a e mani e in amil will a van e, be i i ual..." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

• Pronounced YAG-WAY

[Page 3]

Spy the Best in Your Family

Do you ever dream of being a daring detective? With your powers of keen observation, you may like to spot clues and unravel mysteries. Maybe you can't wait to tell your family about your latest discoveries. But your dad's distracted with making dinner and your sister's stressed about homework. Nobody seems to be listening.

You can use your skills to detect people's virtues in action. Your dad can't talk right now, but he's showing love by preparing food for the family. Your sister's patience is wearing thin, but she's also striving for excellence in her schoolwork.

It can be easy to see good qualities when we're all happy and at our best. But when we get busy or make mistakes, spotting strengths may take some extra inspection. Take this quiz to see if you spy the best in your family.

Circle your answers, then add up your points.

"Wherever you find the attributes of God love that person, whether he be of your family or of another." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

1. When family members are feeling low, I tell them what I admire about them. Often 3 Sometimes = 2. Rarely=1

2. I find things to be grateful for in my family. Often 3 Sometimes 2 Rarely = 1

3. If a sibling is struggling with a new skill, I tell them what they're doing well. Often 3 Sometimes =2. Rarely=1

4. If I'm mad at a sibling, I remember what I love about them before discussing what upset me. Often 3 Sometimes 2. Rarely=1

5. I forgive my family members—and myself—when we make mistakes. Often 3 Sometimes 2 Rarely=1

6. When my feelings are hurt, I ask questions instead of jumping to conclusions. Often 3 Sometimes = 2 Rarely=1

7. In a disagreement, I do my best to listen, even when I'm upset. Often 3 Sometimes = 2 Rarely = 1

8. I keep in mind the great qualities that make each family member unique. Often 3 Sometimes 2 Rarely=1

9. When a family member isn't at their best, I try to understand how they're feeling. Often 3 Sometimes 2 Rarely=1

10. I thank family members when they help me out. Often 3 Sometimes 2 Rarely=1

11. I look for chances to compliment my parents and siblings. Often 3 Sometimes = 2. Rarely=1

12. I practice seeing the best in myself so I can see the best in others, too. Often 3 Sometimes 2 Rarely = 1

MY SCORE

36-28 POINTS You're a super sleuth! You love solving the mystery of what makes your family shine.

27-20 POINTS You're strengthening your skills at spying the good in others. Choose a tip from the quiz to help.

19-12 POINTS You're learning to detect good qualities in others. Choose a few tips from the quiz to develop your skills. [Page 4]

A Brief Timeline: The Life of the Báb

1819 October 20 Birth of the Báb in Shíráz, Iran

1842 August Marries Khadijih Bagum

1843 Birth of their son, Ahmad, who soon dies

1844 May 23 Declares Divine Mission as Prophet-Founder of the Bábí Faith

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

1847 July Imprisonment in the fortress of Máh-Kú (The Open Mountain)

1848 April 10 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 July 9 The Báb is martyred in Tabriz, Iran.

Life of the Báb: Stay in Isfahán

In September 1846, after being banished from His home in Shíráz, Persia (now Iran), the Báb set out for Isfahán, a city known for its wise religious leaders. Its governor was Manúchihr Khán, a trusted friend of the shah.

In Isfahán, visitors flocked to see the Báb, 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 Báb 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 Báb’s life, he created a plan to protect Him. He ordered 500 guards to escort the Báb to Tihrán. He wanted religious leaders, the people of Isfahan, and almost all of the guards to believe that the Báb was being exiled. But the governor never intended to send Him away. He told his 10 most trusted guards to bring the Báb back to Isfahán in secret.

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

The governor longed to help the Báb spread His message, but he became sick and passed away. The sháh learned that the Báb 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 Báb wrote to the governor, who insisted He be warmly welcomed.

But the sháh’s prime minister was afraid of losing his own power. He told the sháh that the Báb was dangerous, and convinced him to change his plans. The sháh exiled the Báb to Máh-Kú, 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 Máh-Kú took the Báb and His guards through the city of Tabriz. As the Báb entered, people crowded the streets in their eagerness to see Him. The city rang with their cries of “Alláh-u-Akbar,” meaning “God is the Most Great.”

The Báb stayed in Tabriz for about 40 days before finishing His journey to Máh-Kú. 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 Bahá’u’lláh. [Page 5]

FIN, FUR, AND FEATHER FAMILIES

Packs, 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. It's great to play, eat together, look out for each other, and develop our strengths and talents.

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.

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

Along this California coast, match each animal to its statement.

SEA OTTER GULL DOLPHIN FRIGATEBIRD ORCA SEAHORSE PLOVER SEA LION

I was over 8 ft (2.5 m) at birth. Some of us live in a family, or pod, with four generations.

My camouflaged egg hatched on the beach. Now, some of my feathers are sand-colored. Dad was my main caregiver.

I was born at the rookery, where Dad guards about 15 moms and their young. Mom and I find each other with loud, unique calls.

Mom cared for me for almost a year. Like Dad and all males, I have a red throat pouch.

I'm one of the most well-known birds, found on every continent. Both of my parents take turns caring for their eggs.

We're very social, and I'll stay with Mom for at least a few years. We help each other, and sometimes we help humans.

My mom wraps me in kelp while she's feeding, so I don't float away.

My parents got together by dancing. It's Dad who carries the eggs and gives birth! There can be hundreds of newborns, called fry. [Page 6]

A Brief Timeline: The Life of Bahá’u’lláh

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

1817 November 12 Birth of Bahá’u’lláh in Tihrán, Iran

1844 Recognizes the Báb as a new Messenger of God

1852 Imprisonment in the "Black Pit" of Tihrán

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 Bahá’í Faith

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

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

1877 Finally free to live in countryside homes of Mazra'ih and then Bahjí, outside ‘Akká

1892 May 29 Bahá’u’lláh passes away at Bahjí.

The Greatest Holy Leaf

It was a joyous day when Bahá’u’lláh and His wife, Navváb, welcomed their only daughter, Bahiyyih Khánum, in 1846. Born into one of the wealthiest families in Tihrán, Persia (now Iran), Bahiyyih Khánum's earliest memories were happy. She lived with loving parents and a kind older brother, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. She enjoyed visits to her family's home in the country, playing in the garden among flowers and fruit trees. When she was about three years old, her brother, Mírzá Mihdí, was born.

Bahiyyih Khánum wrote, "There is no greater work for one to do upon this earth than to try and unite the hearts of the people..."

Bahiyyih Khánum's life of ease disappeared overnight when she was six years old. Her father was unjustly arrested because of His religious beliefs. Bahá’u’lláh was placed in chains in the Black Pit, one of the worst dungeons in Tihrán. The family was thrown out of their home, and their possessions were taken from them. They had little food. Bahiyyih Khánum was given a handful of flour to eat instead of bread.

The family was terrified for Bahá’u’lláh. While her mother and older brother went out to seek news about Him, Bahiyyih Khánum cared for her baby brother, holding him in her tired arms.

When Bahá’u’lláh was released from prison, He was exiled to Baghdad (now in Iraq). Bahiyyih Khánum 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 Khánum learned to care for her family. She drew heavy buckets of water from the well and served tea to guests. Bahá’u’lláh sometimes worked alongside her, cooking meals for His family.

When Bahá’u’lláh retreated to pray in the wilderness for two years, Bahiyyih Khánum 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 Bahiyyih Khánum grew, she embraced every chance to be of service. Bahá’u’lláh 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 Bahá’u’lláh. She revered the "sacred influence radiating from Him."

In 1873, Bahiyyih Khánum happily joined in celebrating the marriage of her beloved brother, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Munirih Khánum. 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 Bahiyyih Khánum's self-sacrificing [Page 7]"How sweet thy presence before Me; how sweet to gaze upon thy face, to bestow upon thee My loving-kindness, to favor thee with My tender care.." -Bahá’u’lláh

nature and devotion to the Bahá’í Faith. She chose not to marry so she could devote her life to serving her loved ones. She nurtured her family through their exiles and searched for ways to ease their suffering.

Bahá’u’lláh gave her the title "the Greatest Holy Leaf" and praised her unique role. In a tablet to her, He wrote, "We have elevated thee to the rank of one of the most distinguished among thy sex, and granted thee... a station such as none other woman hath surpassed."

In this illustration of the resting place of Bahíyyih Khánum, unscramble the letters to find 12 qualities she was known for.

BENLO DIKN HCEOIR HREFELCU DGIINDEFI VINLOG TTAIPEN KFUTHNAL OPIMTTISCI GVIFRNCOI DTGINSIDEHSUL ENSGUERO [Page 8]

Uplift with Crafts: Make & Fly Cool Kites

"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-Bahá

rts and crafts are the BEST-especially when I 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 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!

I'M SOARING WITH FAMILY AND CREATIVITY!

You'll Need

• ball of string
• six firm drinking straws
• clear tape
• 11" (28 cm) square sheet of wrapping paper
• scissors
• ruler
• crepe paper streamers
• markers
• optional: paint pens

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.

2 Repeat Step 1 to make second stick. [Page 9]

Nur's Nook

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 1/2" (1.3 cm) from straws' ends.

4 For bridle, knot end of a piece of 20" (51 cm) string around the center of both sticks.

5 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.

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

7 Pinch and tape end of a 2" x 20" (5.1 x 51 cm) 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.

8 With markers or paint pens, add virtues that most help you and your family soar. Love.

Kite Flying Tips

FLY KITE IN MEDIUM WIND ON DRY DAYS IN AN OPEN AREA.

HOLD STRING NEAR BRIDLE SO KITE HANGS UPRIGHT.

MAKE SURE FLYING LINE IS CENTERED ON BRIDLE. [Page 10]

Cool Collaborations

"...eye how easily, where unity existeth in a given family, the affairs of that family are conducted..." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

y firefly family loves to hold de-LIGHT-ful prayer parties in our neighborhood. I can't wait for friends to come over and share prayers. Spoken or sung, prayerful words help me feel closer to God and fill me with peace.

Hosting these events takes patience, practice, and cooperation. To make it fun, everyone contributes by using their strengths. Since arts and crafts are my favorite, I 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!

CHECKLIST

FIND WORDS TO COMPLETE TIPS FOR CREATING FUN ENCOURAGING EVENTS AS A TEAM.

CREATIVITY | CONSULT | INVITE | THINK | TGIVING | FAVORITE | LOVING | WELCOME | SHARE | STRENGTHS

1 As you plan, say prayers together for ________.

2 Create a guest list and decide how to ________ friends.

3 Make a ________ of tasks to be done before, during, and after the event.

4 Ask everyone to use their best ________ and talents.

5 ________ about everyone's ideas and concerns.

6 ________ updates on your progress and speak up when you need help.

7 Keep your comments ________ and positive.

8 Use ________ to decorate the space and add a joyful glow.

9 Warmly ________ and help guests as they arrive. [Page 11]

WE ARE ONE: EXPLORE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AND ITS CREATURES

"All the members of this endless universe are linked one to another." —Bahá’í Writings

OUR CONNECTIONS

What if you headed home from school and found your path completely blocked? That's what it's like for animals who once roamed vast open land. Buildings and highways break up their habitat and isolate them from food, water, shelter, and their breeding grounds. They also prevent animals from moving to adapt to climate change. To help, wildlife corridors are being built-strips of protected nature, underground tunnels, or land bridges that offer safe pathways for animals.

EARTH-SAVING TIP

No snack attacks Human food isn't healthy for wildlife. Animals that get used to our food may be aggressive toward humans, endangering them and us. Don't feed wild animals or leave pet food outdoors.

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

Jamie Rappaport Clark, a wildlife biologist in Washington D.C., is an expert on endangered species. She heads Defenders of Wildlife, a conservation organization that helps at-risk species in North America. She says, "Our kids and our grandkids deserve a healthy planet with healthy natural resources-that's the legacy each generation leaves to the next."

WOW, REALLY?

Worldwide, livestock (mostly cows and pigs) makes up 60% of all mammals. Humans are 36%, and wild animals are only 4%.

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

There are over 50 national parks in the U.S., with more than 330 million visitors a year. Yosemite National Park, established in 1890, was once full of glaciers. It now has over 15 waterfalls, including Bridalveil Fall with its 620-foot (189 m) drop.

Unscramble the letters to find its location: NICAORALIF

AMAZING ANIMALS

These are Earth's largest land animals, weighing 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:

A _ RI _ _ A _ _ _ _ PHA _ _ [Page 12]

Maya's Mysteries

"Ye must shine as stars radiating the light of love toward all mankind." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Terrific Traditions

Do you have any family traditions? Each month, my family hikes to the top of the mountain near our house. We bring a picnic and gaze at the stars. Sometimes we can even see the Milky Way! Lots of people have traditions for holidays. But a tradition can be anything special you regularly do with your family or community, when you focus on being together. Did you know that traditions can boost unity and happiness? That's because they can help us feel supported and loved. I feel this way when I go stargazing with my family. We share stories and make each other laugh. If something is stressing me out, my siblings and parents give me advice and cheer me up. Enjoying nature as part of your family traditions is so cool. You can learn new skills, like finding constellations. Check out these ideas for making family memories!

Make Memories

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

Create a "Jar of Wonders." Have everyone write down amazing things seen in nature, and put the notes in a jar. Once a week, take turns reading them aloud.

Camp out in a tent in your backyard (or in the living room, and pretend you're outside).

Collect nature items, such as leaves or pine needles, and use them as paintbrushes to create a piece of art that represents your family.

Collect and paint dead tree branches for walking sticks.

Hold an outdoor prayer gathering, decorated with flowers, leaves, and rocks.

Build a birdhouse and hang it outside. Keep track of the types of birds that visit.

Plant a garden and share your harvest with neighbors.

Host a park clean-up party. Whoever collects the most trash wins a prize.

Celebrate the seasons by taking a family photo in the same spot on the first day of spring, summer, fall, and winter.

Go on a walk or bike ride and have a nature scavenger hunt.

Ask an elder family member about a tradition they enjoyed as a kid. Write it here:

Add your own ideas: [Page 13]

Magic of Family Service

Sometimes it's tricky to come up with great ideas for family time, where everyone feels included and has fun. But doing a service project your family can be magical.

Volunteering together helps us appreciate the charming qualities that make each of us unique. A talkative sibling may be challenging at times, but if you visit a lonely neighbor together, that chattiness becomes enchanting. Mom's fix-it ability may really sparkle when the food bank needs new shelves installed. Seeing the power your family has to make a difference keeps hope, compassion, and generosity brewing.

When you uplift others, you can cast a spell of unity in your family and your community.

This wizard family is volunteering at their community center. Find 18 words that make their service magical. Search up, down, forward, backward, and diagonally.

V LUF PLEH SPEPYK Z EL BISNOPSERITR J PT QE OLAY TCMH I OZ YGA UMT LABY XS NW F XIMI I PRIVJLDUME OVE CEAG KWENHAM QDNE PEPT CSA EYEP WC POML ROH WRI VTO EO OZGIA PSYNRLOW HCOZ FUO UPFI FBX E GENEROUS GAN LYXR HTGNERTS NHGQ S T U NGYBCONNECTEAPK OBGKT W WOOV BEKLN KF JRK CJ BF V ZXRW N

Appreciate Connect Empathy Generous Laughter Patience Strength Empower Cooperate Friendship Helpful Hope Learning Responsible Teamwork Love Skills Unity [Page 14]

LIGHTNING & LUNA

DISTRACTING DRONES

BAXTER AND BRIDGET

1. 83

EN ROUTE TO A EUROPEAN UPLIFTER BASE . . .

PULSAR HERE. COMING IN FOR A LANDING.

ARBOR AND CORDA, HOW ARE YOU FEELING?

WE’RE JUST HAPPY TO BE OUT OF PROWD’S LAIR. THOSE RESTRAINTS WERE WICKED.

EACH ONE WAS MADE TO WEAR DOWN OUR SPECIFIC POWERS!

HOW WAS YOUR RIDE, LUNA?

IT WAS GREAT. THIS PLACE IS AWESOME!

WELCOME TO HARMONI, A MOBILE BASE.

I’M GLAD ARBOR AND CORDA ARE OKAY.

BUT I FEEL SORRY FOR PROWD’S HORDE. THEY WERE SO MISERABLE.

ME TOO.

THEY GOT CAUGHT UP IN THE LURE OF THE GOLD.

GREED CAN TAKE OVER ANYONE.

YEAH. GOOD REMINDER TO FOCUS ON WHAT’S REALLY IMPORTANT.

LIKE FRIENDS, FAMILY, HELPING NEIGHBORS—

AND FOOD! DON’T FORGET FOOD!

YOU HAVE A GREAT POWER, FLAME. IT’S SO HARD TO KNOW WHAT’S TRUE.

YEAH, IT’S COOL!

I WISH YOU AND ARBOR LIVED CLOSER, SO WE COULD HANG OUT.

THAT WOULD BE AMAZING!

IN ZAPPO’S LAB . . .

I’VE FIGURED OUT THE TECH IN PROWD’S WEAPONS, EXCEPT FOR THIS CUBE.

WOW!

WHAT IS IT?

MAYBE SOME KIND OF AMPLIFIER?

FLAP! FLAP! FLAP!

VOOOSHHH!

WHOA!

FLAP! FLAP! FLAP! FLAP! [Page 15]FLASHH!

ACK!

VOOOSHHH!

IT MUST HAVE A HOMING DEVICE. LET’S TRACK IT!

MY CUPCAKES! CAN YOU TRACK DOWN NEW CUPCAKES?

WOW, THAT WAS BRIGHT!

THIS IS A GOOD TIME TO TEST MY CREATION.

SUPER MINI DRONES.

WWWWMMMMMMMMMMZZZZZZZZ!

I’VE SET IT TO CHASE MODE.

SO COOL!

ARE WE GOING TO GET DRONES?

ACTUALLY, I HAVE THESE FOR YOU TO PRACTICE WITH.

HEYYYY . . . CAN THEY REACH THE KITCHEN?

CUPCAKE DRONE!

NOT SO FAST!

CUPCAKE SWIPE DRONE!

SWOOOOOOOP!

SNIP!

NOOOOOOOOO!

THESE DRONES ARE A PIECE OF CAKE! [Page 16]

RADIANT STARS

Getting to know kids who shine Connect with kids around the world! How are they like you? How are they different? Each of us has a unique story to tell. What's yours?

Layla Love Age: 14 I live in: South Carolina, U.S. I want to be: Aerospace engineer This career interests me because: Of its discovery of new technology and how [it] is used in space Virtue I admire most: Kindness Hobbies or sports: Drawing... and I'm on my school's volleyball and basketball teams Favorite Bahá’í activity: I really like organizing Bahá’í service projects for our community. To show my family I love them: I love baking for 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, I: Take some time alone to reflect and then talk about it with my family Something I've learned from an elder relative: My grandmother taught me to always be kind by her actions...

Tristan Mejia Age: 14 I live in: Washington, U.S. I want to be: An aeronautical engineer This career interests me because: I have always loved aircraft and enjoy designing things... Virtue I admire most: Perseverance Favorite Bahá’í activity: Junior youth group Favorite animal: Shiba Inu [dog] A hero or role model: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 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, I: 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 I love them, I: Participate in activities with them

Kylee O'Keeffe Age: 10 I live in: Pennsylvania, U.S. I want to be: Orthodontist, like my mom This career interests me because: I want to... make people feel confident in their smiles! Virtue I admire most: Kindness Favorite Bahá’í activities: Celebrating Naw-Rúz* and Ayyam-i-Há** with my family!

• Naw-Rúz is the Bahá’í New Year.

A hero or role model: My mom What helps me cope with a family difficulty: I try 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 I love them, I: 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, I: Try to compromise... Something I've learned from an elder relative: I have learned a lot about the Bahá’í Faith from my Mimi and Papa, and... about kindness.

• • Ayyam-i-Ha is a festival of hospitality, gift giving, and preparing for the Bahá’í Fast.

[Page 17]

Mateen Pourjafar

Age: 11 I live in: New York, U.S. I want to be: Actor This career interests me because: I like to play in other people's roles and lives. Virtue I admire most: Kindness Hobbies or sports: Tennis, swimming Favorite Bahá’í activity: [Going] to children's class with my friends A hero or role model: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá I like to help people by: Being generous... I enjoyed a junior youth community service that we did by collecting clothes and food... and delivering them to a homeless shelter.

We love to organize for Ayyám-i-Há. Place I'd love to visit: London, England Something special my family does for fun: Going on road trips [or] watching movies together What helps me cope with a family difficulty: I think of a positive thing that could happen. I replace the bad thoughts with good ones. To work out conflicts with family members, I: Wait until things cool down, then apologize and say I love them

Zachary Staszewski

Age: 10 I live in: Michigan, U.S. I want to be: Actor This career interests me because: I believe I can use the arts to help empower humanity. Virtue I admire most: Truthfulness Favorite Bahá’í activity: Children's class Place I'd love to visit: Holy Land [Israel] I like to help people by: When I [see] someone alone, I like to help them feel included. Something special my family does for fun: We love road trips.

A hero or role model: [Actor] Rainn Wilson What helps me cope with a family difficulty: Praying To show my family I love them: My mom is Brazilian, and they love hugs and kisses. So this is how we show... our love. To work out conflicts with family members, I: Go away and take a deep breath, try to calm down, and... talk...

• Feast is a Bahá’í community gathering with prayers, consultation, and fellowship.

"God has crowned you with honor and in your hearts has He set a radiant star; verily the light thereof shall brighten the whole world!"

- ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Carmel Tebyani

Age: 10 I live in: California, U.S. I want to be: An ophthalmologist This career interests me because: I want to help people with their sight so they can see and be happy. And my mom is an ophthalmologist. Favorite Bahá’í activities: Feast and children's classes Favorite animal or pet: Whale and cat A favorite food: Persian RICE!!! A hero or role model: My mom... Something special my family does for fun: We go out for mommy/ daughter time or daddy/son time. We then meet up... and share our experiences.

What helps me cope with a family difficulty: To go to my room and lose myself in a good book... To show my family I love them, I: Just give them a hug and a kiss... To work out conflicts with family members, I: Compromise or realize how silly the topic of the argument is Something I've learned from an elder relative: Be kind to anyone who ever crosses your path. Treat everyone with the utmost respect, especially your elders.

How to be a Radiant Star

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, 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). [Page 18]

Adayna Fozdar

Age: 9 I live in: Western Australia I 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 Bahá’í activity: Ridván* celebrations Something special my family does for fun: Going on family bushwalks [nature hikes] What helps me cope with a family difficulty: Say prayers or talk... To work out conflicts with family members, I: 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.

Coral Padfield

Age: 9 I live in: Washington, U.S. I want to be: An artist This career interests me because: I love creativity. Virtue I admire most: Flexibility Favorite Bahá’í activity: Helping teach children's classes Place I’d love to visit: Paris I like to help people by: Volunteering at homeless shelters and food banks I like to help people by: Using my creativity. I like to help my mum with her Bahá’í class preparation. My favorite family tradition: We eat a special breakfast together every Sunday. A hero or role model: My mom 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, I: Think about why they did what they did and how I reacted, and... how I 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 I live in: Pennsylvania, U.S. I want to be: A scientist or an artist This career interests me because: I love science, and drawing/painting is my thing. Virtue I admire most: Caring Hobbies or sports: Drawing and soccer Favorite Bahá’í activity: Feast Place I’d love to visit: Africa Favorite foods: Pizza and tacos I like to help people by: Telling them how to do something What helps me cope with a family difficulty: I try to relax and/or meditate. To show my family I love them, I: Hug them To work out conflicts with family members, I: Say, "Okay, let's stop now." Something I’ve learned from an elder relative: How to play backgammon A hero or role model: Mom, Dad, and my cousin, Lily

Khaia Gordon

Age: 7 I live in: Washington, D.C. I want to be: A scientist, doctor, 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 Bahá’í 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 write them songs and poems. To work out conflicts with family members, I: 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.

Note

The Ridván Festival honors Bahá’u’lláh’s declaration of His mission. [Page 19]

Hop Through Hardship

Rabbits may seem cute and fluffy. But did you know they're also smart and good at coping 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 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.

BRAVE BEZZY EMPATHETIC EVIE GRATEFUL GRELA HELPFUL HUBIE HUMOROUS HARPO LISTENING LUKA OPTIMISTIC PATIENT RESOURCEFUL OPAL PARLEY RISA

FIND NINE RESILIENT RABBITS WORKING TOGETHER AFTER A STORM. [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 being in space? -Peter, age 10

Hi, Peter,

I always looked forward to being in space. It's hard to accurately describe what it feels like to be weightless, but it is an incredible sensation and also a lot of fun. All you have to do is 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 spacecraft'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

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.

BACK IN TIME

Born in Germany in 1879, Albert Einstein made discoveries about light, gravity, space, and time. He won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921. In addition to science, he enjoyed these two things:

A) Surfing B) Violin C) Soccer D) Chess [Page 21]

What is 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 may still find life there. Venus is covered with clouds, and space probes sent revealed that it has a surface temperature of 880°F (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.

-Steve

An artist’s conception of planet Ross 128 b, with its parent star in the distance.

COSMIC QUIZ

The International Space Station was built by 16 countries. Two of the large modules are named:

A) Peace and Long Life B) Action and Adventure C) Unity and Harmony D) Saturn and Apollo

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

STEVE SCOTTI

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 astronaut launched into space inspired his interest in space exploration, and he enjoys sharing his enthusiasm about science and space with kids.

WENDY LAWRENCE

WENDY LAWRENCE is a retired Navy 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 s space shuttle four times and has spent over 50 days in space. Currently, she works part-time at Space Camp and the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, informing the public about NASA’s spaceflight programs and participating in STEM education programs. [Page 22]

Dr. Michael Penn

When 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, "I am a Bahá’í." Michael says that the Bahá’í 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.

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

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... I 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... I said to myself, this is astounding. Whatever this person does, that's what I want to do... I didn't even know what a clinical psychologist was, but I said that's what I would like to become, because I liked the kinds of things he was talking about. I liked the ways that he was saying them. I loved the breadth of his knowledge.

...

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

Questions and Answers with an Inspirational Bahá’í

HOTEL METROPOLE UN Linders Progtientie - Geneve UNITED NATIONS

Q: What are some important things for a happy family life? A: 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... I 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...

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

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 Bahá’í gathering.

Q: What should a kid do if they or someone they know is dealing with conflict or violence in their family? A: 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, I 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.

Q: This issue of Brilliant Star is about family unity. What are three things kids can do to help build unity in their families? A: 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 [Page 24]

SHINING LAMP

A Bahá’í who served humanity with radiance Rebequa Murphy (1953-2008)

I

If you argued with your parents, would you storm off to tell a world leader about it? That’s 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.

A World Citizen

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 Bahá’í, her father was a friend of Hand of the Cause of God* Abu’l-Qasim Faizi and Universal House of Justice** member ‘Alí Nakhjavání. 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 faced. She wanted to help. As a teenager, she and friends formed an orphanage for about 12 homeless kids in Ethiopia. She continued to focus on service all of her life.

Rebequa attended college in Alaska, where she befriended some Bahá’ís. She began attending their meetings. One night she learned that Shoghi Effendi, whose name she had heard as a kid, was actually the Guardian and head of the Bahá’í Faith. She explored the Faith, and within a week, at age 18, she became a Bahá’í.

She was devoted to the Bahá’í 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.”

Global Service

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 in a world that divides you... intentionally associate with people who are fundamentally different than you are ... stand up for your convictions.”

Rebequa served the Bahá’í community in many ways, including as a representative to the United Nations. Later she was a Continental Counselor, helping to guide Bahá’í 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 Bahá’í community in significant ways, including encouraging others in teaching and protecting the Faith.
  • The Bahá’í Faith’s international governing body

[Page 25]

Side by Side

You’re arguing with your sibling over whose turn it is to clean up after dinner. Your sibling stomps off, you’re mad, and the kitchen is still a mess. Disunity is like a storm cloud that puts everyone in a gloomy mood. But when we work together, we help the light of unity break through. Teamwork builds bonds and helps everyone feel included. Instead of arguing over the dishes, turn the job into a game. Set a timer and see how fast you can finish together. When we all cooperate and do our part, we nurture our family with joy and positivity. That makes home a truly sweet home.

One family is beaming with unity, but the other needs help. Find 12 differences between the scenes. [Page 26]

Powerful Stories

Do you know any stories about 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?

I LOVE HEARING FAMILY STORIES!

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. I 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?

Did you know? One of the best places to share stories is at the dinner table. Research shows 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.

"Send down... from the clouds of Thy mercy the rains of Thy healing..." —Bahá’u’lláh

Explore & Soar: What's Your Story?

Try asking your elders these questions to find out some cool family stories.

• What did you like to do when you were my age?
• What do you like best about our cultural heritage?
• What was it like on the day I was born?
• What was your favorite birthday?
• What's an important lesson you've learned?
• What was school like for you as a kid?
• How did your parents meet?
• What's the craziest thing that's ever happened to you?
• What job did you dream of when you were a kid?
• Do we have any special family heirlooms?
• What technology did you use as a kid?
• What's the coolest place you've traveled to?

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

A Happy Camper

"Bahá’u’lláh came to bring unity to the world, and a fundamental unity is that of the family." —Bahá’í Writings

It's time for your family camping trip! You're excited to pack up and hit the road.

But when you get to the campsite, it starts to rain, and you forgot your umbrella. To make matters worse, the tent has a hole in it and you're swarmed by mosquitoes. Not cool!

Instead of getting bugged, you take a deep breath of fresh air. You stay positive and point out that at least you didn't forget the tents or meet a hungry bear. Your sunny attitude lifts your family's spirits. When the rain stops, you set up camp, then all huddle around the campfire, roasting marshmallows and telling jokes.

Sometimes things don't work out like you expect. Optimism and flexibility help everyone swat away stress and disappointment. When you pitch in to kindle your family's joy and unity, you all can be happy campers.

On this family camping trip, match each negative thought with the positive one that can replace it.

1 IT STINKS THAT THERE'S NO WI-FI. I'M SO BORED. 2 I HATE SETTING UP CAMP. WHY COULDN'T WE RENT A CABIN? 3 THE FOOD WE BROUGHT IS WEIRD. I MISS PIZZA. 4 UGH—I THOUGHT THERE WOULD BE A LAKE FOR SWIMMING. 5 THIS IS ANNOYING. MY FRIENDS ARE PROBABLY HAVING FUN WITHOUT ME. 6 THIS MUSIC IS SO CHEESY. WISH I HAD MY PHONE. 7 I CAN’T BELIEVE I’M NOT ALLOWED TO RUN AROUND BY MYSELF. 8 HIKING IS SUCH A PAIN. WE NEVER DO ANYTHING COOL. 9 CODY NEVER SHARES THE BINOCULARS. I'LL JUST GRAB THEM.

A I’LL TALK TO CODY ABOUT TAKING TURNS WITH THE GEAR. B I LOVE SINGING TOGETHER, EVEN THE SILLY SONGS. C IT’LL BE FUN TO TELL MY FRIENDS ABOUT THIS TRIP. D HIKING CAN BE LONG AND HARD BUT I’LL GIVE IT ANOTHER SHOT. E UNPLUGGING HELPS ME CONNECT WITH MY FAMILY. F SETTING UP CAMP TAKES WORK, BUT I LEARNED TO DO SOME COOL STUFF. G I WANTED TO SWIM, BUT I’LL FIND OTHER THINGS TO DO. H CAMP FOOD ISN’T MY FAVORITE, BUT THE CAMPFIRE IS FUN. I IT’S EASY TO GET LOST IN A NEW PLACE. WE SHOULD STICK TOGETHER. [Page 28]

COSMO’S CORNER

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

HOW DO YOU GET AROUND ON FAMILY VACATIONS? BY HARE-PLANE!

ACROSS

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

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

8. A sunny attitude can lift your family’s __________. (p. 27)

9. Zachary and Mateen want to be __________. (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)

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)

DOWN

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 __________ offer safe pathways for animals. (p. 11)

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

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 __________ from elder relatives. (pp. 16–17)

FROM OUR MAILBOX

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

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

ANSWERS

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

Page 2: C at C, D at far TL, F at TC, G at TR, P at BC, R at 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

Page 11: California, African elephants

Page 19: Bezzy at BL, Evie at BC, Greta 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, I) 7 [Page 29]

FAMILY FORTRESS

"The unity of the family must be sustained. The injury of one shall be considered the injury of all; the comfort of each, the comfort of all..." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

e all have tough days. Maybe you had a hard test at school or got into a fight with a friend. It's great to come home and find refuge and comfort with your family. Like a fortress, a strong family can protect us and help us develop virtues. Those virtues, such as unity, respect, and compassion, are like bricks that make the fortress sturdy.

aMAZEing ADVENTURE

Any structure, even a fortress, needs maintenance to keep it in good shape. So do the relationships in a family. When you lend a hand with chores, help a sibling with homework, hug a family member, or listen to their problems, you may strengthen the fortress. What are some ways you show your family that you love and respect them?

Help these kids through the Fortress of Family, past troubling traps, and into the Teamwork Tower.

SCREEN SPIDER

START

MONSTER OF MATERIALISM

TEAMWORK TOWER

SELFISH SERPENT [Page 30]“Become as waves of one sea, trees of one forest, growing in the utmost love, agreement and unity.” — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Brilliant Star Waves of Love • VOL. 50 NO. 4

AN AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE UNITED STATES

www.brilliantstarmagazine.org