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[Page i]A BAHÁ’Í COMPANION FOR YOUNG EXPLORERS

Brilliant Star

www.brilliantstarmagazine.org VOL. 50 NO. 5

Bound Together

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF BRILLIANT STAR

TIPS FOR COOPERATING AND CONSULTING [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

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

FAVORITE FEATURES

6 Bahá’u’lláh’s Life: Mission of Peace Friends and family joined Him in exile.

8 Nur’s Nook Make your own mini zine with friends.

MANY THANKS TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS: Kabir Ahmadi Sophia Berger Elsa Bishop George Hatcher Eldon Holland Atisha Karimi William Khavari Bambi King Dr. Brian Lepard Nick Lockhart Dr. Barbara Loeding. Fazal Mato

11 We Are One Explore and care for the place we all call home.

Kian Moainie Jian Morano Layli Phillips Athena Sanghavi lulia Schneeweis . Dr. Mark Serreze

12 Maya’s Mysteries Take the creativity challenge!

Neusha Shirmohammadi Arian Soleymani Lewis Walker

ART AND PHOTO CREDITS

Illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted By Lisa Blecker: Watercolor on p. 5, photos for pp. 8-9 By Foad Ghorbani: Art on p. 10

14 Lightning and Luna: Episode #84 What happens at the Uplifters’ mobile base?

Historical photos courtesy National Bahá’í Archives, unless noted

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS

By Amy Renshaw: 11, 14, 20 By Heidi Parsons: 5, 16, 22, 24 By Katie Bishop: 4, 6, 26 By Darcy Greenwood: 12, 19, 25, 27, 29 By Lisa Blecker: 8

16 Radiant Stars Get to know kids who shine, like you. By Donna Price: 2, 10, 11, 13, 14, 20, 28

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)

22 Stargazer: Dr. Brian Lepard 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.

ISSN 0884-3635

He teaches about human rights and justice.

26 Shining Lamp: "Auntie" Victoria Bedikian She empowered kids around the world.

27 Riley’s Rainforest Soar to success with a growth mindset.

28 Cosmo’s Corner

29 aMAZEing ADVENTURE Join Brilliant Star’s 50th birthday party! A crossword and more from our favorite chameleon [Page 1]BOUND TOGETHER VOL. 50 NO. 5

NEW DESTINATIONS

2	Creating Brilliant Star Explore the steps for making a magazine.
4	Life of the Báb: Transforming Máh-Kú His spirit touched people’s hearts.
5	Consultation Rocks! How can we discover treasures of truth?
10	Quiz: Are You Cooperative? Test your teamwork skills.
13	Be As Waves of One Sea Prayer can help consultation flow.
19	Creative Magic Seek virtues that bring your art to life.
20	Space Ace Scientists answer your cosmic questions.
24	Future Stargazer Draw your vision of your future self.
25	Elfland Harmony Cooperation is always in tune.

DEAR FRIENDS,

Put on a party hat and grab a balloon, because it’s Brilliant Star’s 50th birthday!

For the past five decades, diverse artists, writers, photographers, editors, and friends have worked together to bring Brilliant Star to life for kids around the world. Like any big project, it takes a lot of teamwork, unity, and consultation.

In this special issue, join us in celebrating 50 years of joyful collaboration. Dive behind the scenes to see how a magazine is created. Then fly by Nur’s Nook and make a mini zine of your own. Explore how your interests can be keys to unlocking creative magic. Discover how a growth mindset can help you soar. Quiz yourself on your cooperation skills. And get to know Brian Lepard, a law professor who helped with the earliest version of Brilliant Star when he was a kid.

It’s awesome to be a part of the lives of our readers. Thank you for being shining lights in the global Brilliant Star community!

LOVE, BRILLIANT STAR

Cake by trigubova, Skyline by Spectrum Studio [Page 2]

CREATING Brilliant Star

Yay! It’s time to celebrate Brilliant Star’s 50th birthday! My family has enjoyed the magazine’s stories, interviews, and activities for generations, and I really love doing the crafts.

Just like a firefly goes through stages as it grows, making Brilliant Star has stages, too. Each stage takes cooperation and consultation. Amazing collaborators like you, from around the world, help make each issue shine. The team loves each other and their work. And they really love to hear from readers.

As you check out the stages, fill in the MISSING LETTERS below to discover how the magazine comes to life for you!

1 ANNUAL MEETING

The team gathers to consult about themes for future issues. They also learn together and build on their unity and TEA _ _ O _ K.

2 BRAINSTORMING & RESEARCH

The team finds I _ SPIR _ TIO _ everywhere, from nature, people, sacred writings, libraries, and their travels. Creating content involves diverse contributors across the globe. Assignments for writing, activities, interviews, illustration, and photography are given out.

3 WRITING & EDITING

Writers _ XP _ OR _ their topics and write drafts of manuscripts. They work with editors to bounce drafts back and forth like tennis balls. Final versions are approved and flowed into page designs.

4 ART & PAGE DESIGN

Artists design the pages with colors, graphics, and fonts that make them pop. They draw SKE _ C _ ES, make photos, and create puzzles, mazes, and other magic.

5 REFINE & FINISH PAGES

The AC _ IVI _ IES are tested and refined. Then artists ink and color the sketches by hand or digitally. Finished art and photos are reviewed, revised, and flowed into the final pages. [Page 3]

6 PROOFING

The team reviews pages closely, like DE__ EC__IVES hunting for clues. If they spot mistakes, the pages get fixed and proofed again.

7 PREPRESS & PRODUCTION

Design files, images, fonts, and proofs are finalized and sent to the printing company. Final proofs are made for editors to A__ __ROVE.

8 PRINTING

The magazines are printed on a giant printing press. The editor-in-chief works with the company to make sure the __UALI__Y and color look great.

9 WEBSITE PUBLISHING

Brilliant Star Online is updated with content from the new issue, and with content just for the website. In the Luminous Library, a TRE__S__RY of past issues can be found. Explore Brilliant Star’s world at: www.brilliantstarmagazine.org

10 MAILING AROUND THE WORLD

The mail house puts the magazines in envelopes and addresses them. The next stop is the post office, where they start their journey to you, our __EA__E__S around the globe.

11 FUN ARRIVES!

Brilliant Star is delivered to your M__ILBO__! [Page 4]

A Brief Timeline: The Life of the Báb

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

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 Chihríq (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: Transforming Máh-Kú

In the rugged, remote mountains of northwestern Persia (now Iran), the Báb was imprisoned in the castle of Máh-Kú with two companions. His cell had mud walls, and He had no lamp at night. He wasn't allowed to have visitors.

The shah's prime minister had convinced him to send the Báb to this isolated spot, hoping to stop the spread of His faith. But the castle guards were immediately touched by the Báb's extraordinary character. They told nearby villagers about His loving and gentle manner. People began to gather beneath the castle every day to catch a glimpse of Him and ask for His blessings.

‘Alí Khán, the officer in charge of the castle, tried to follow the prime minister's orders to keep everyone away from the Báb. Then he had a profound experience that changed everything.

One morning, ‘Alí Khán was riding toward town when he saw the Báb praying by the river. He decided to scold Him for leaving His prison, but was suddenly seized with fear of interrupting His prayers. Instead, ‘Alí Khán rode to the castle to yell at the guards for letting Him out. But when he arrived, the castle gates were locked and the Báb was in His cell!

‘Alí Khán was bewildered and trembling as he approached the Báb. The Báb explained that ‘Alí Khán's vision was a divine gift. "What you have witnessed is true and undeniable..." He said. "God... has willed to reveal to your eyes the Truth."

From that moment on, ‘Alí Khán was devoted to the Báb. He allowed visitors to meet with Him, and brought Him the best fruits he could find. In His nine months at Máh-Kú, the Báb revealed about 8,000 holy verses. As He dictated His writings, His voice rang out, echoing through the mountains and touching the hearts of the townspeople.

In the summer and fall of 1847, a steady stream of the Báb's followers, known as Bábís, came to Máh-Kú to see Him. But the winter brought such cold that when He washed His face, water droplets turned to ice on His skin.

The prime minister had spies in the area. They reported the Báb's many visitors and ‘Alí Khán's devotion to Him. In response, the prime minister ordered the Báb to be sent to an even more remote prison called Chihriq.

By the time the Báb left in April 1848, the people of Máh-Kú had been transformed. Though the Báb was in prison for the rest of His life, nothing could stop the irresistible power of His spirit and His Bábí Faith. [Page 5]

CONSULTATION ROCKS!

“If ye be aware of a certain truth, if ye possess a jewel, of which others are deprived, share it with them in a language of utmost kindliness and goodwill.” —Bahá’u’lláh

A dusty rock may seem dull and boring when it’s on the ground or buried below. But if you dig up a stone that’s rare and super durable, a bit of polishing can reveal a beautiful gem. Ideas can be like that, too. You might think an idea is ordinary, but when people consult about it and buff it up, the result can be brilliant! Consulting is like mining for treasures of truth.

Everyone joins together in a spirit of love and friendship to solve a problem or make a decision. You share your thoughts with humility and treat others with respect.

When you consult, offer your idea, and then let it go. If the group doesn’t agree, try to keep an open mind, instead of arguing that you know best. By focusing on what works for everyone, you can discover jewels of unity.

My friends are sharing tips for sparkling consultation. Unscramble a word in each one.

1. I SPEAK AND ACT WITH (OCNFINDEEC) __________ , AS WELL AS RESPECT. (Assertive Amethyst)
2. I KEEP MY (LOCO) ____ , EVEN IF WE DISAGREE. (Calm Carnelian)
3. I (FFREO) _____ MY IDEA, BUT DON’T PUSH FOR IT. (Detached Diamond)
4. I LIKE TO EXPLORE NEW IDEAS AND (SOONTIP) _______ . (Open-Minded Opal)
5. I PAY CLOSE (TANTOTIEN) _________ TO WHAT THE SPEAKER SAYS. (Listening Lapis)
6. I GIVE PEOPLE TIME TO (SPEXERS) _______ THEMSELVES. (Patient Peridot)
7. I USE (COYUREST) ________ AND TREAT OTHERS THE WAY I LIKE TO BE TREATED. (Respectful Ruby)
8. I SPEAK WITH (THYSEON) _______ AND ACCURACY. (Truthful Topaz)
9. I LOOK FOR (STOSLUNIO) _________ THAT CAN HELP EVERYONE. (Just Jade)

[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.

Companions in Exile

At noon on May 3, 1863, Bahá’u’lláh mounted His red roan stallion and set out from Baghdad for Constantinople (now Istanbul, Turkey). He was being banished once again because of His faith. The people of Baghdad who had grown to love Him crowded His path, eager to see Him one last time. With tears streaming down their cheeks, many raced forward to touch His stirrups and bow their heads to Him.

Bahá’u’lláh was joined by 54 family members and friends. They were overjoyed to stay close to Him, even in exile. They traveled with mules and horses and were escorted by a mounted guard of 10 soldiers. Officials and villagers from nearby towns rushed to greet Him along the way.

It was a long and exhausting journey that lasted over three months. But the exiles worked together to ease the hardships and lift each other’s spirits. Some people sang songs and chanted prayers. Others served coffee, water, and tea. Some pitched the tents at night or cared for the animals.

At 19 years old, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the eldest son of Bahá’u’lláh, was generous and eager to be helpful. He often rode ahead to prepare the campsite. When supplies ran low, he traveled to nearby towns at night to find food. Each day, he rode by his father’s side.

Two friends, Áqá Ridá and Mírzá Mahmud, were especially devoted. They prepared and served all the meals and looked out for everyone’s comfort. The group traveled long distances every day, sometimes up to 30 miles (48 km).

Bahá’u’lláh’s eldest son, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, was a young man during the journey to Constantinople. He offered valuable service to his father and their companions.

If the heat became too intense, they would stop to rest, then hike through the night. When they reached camp, many would fall asleep from exhaustion. Yet Áqá Ridá and Mírzá Mahmud would still make food. After everyone ate and went to sleep, these two men stayed awake, cleaning up from the meal.

Áqá Ridá and Mírzá Mahmud made the entire journey on foot, often chanting prayers as they went. Sometimes they were so tired that they slept while walking! But they were devoted to Bahá’u’lláh and His mission of peace.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, "They served with rare faithfulness. Indeed no human being had the fortitude to bear cheerfully all this heavy labor. But... they performed all these services with greatest happiness." [Page 7]“We love to see you at all times consorting in amity and concord within the paradise of My good-pleasure, and to inhale from your acts the fragrance of friendliness and unity . . .” —Bahá’u’lláh

These friends stayed with Bahá’u’lláh for the rest of their lives, serving with radiance and love.

After 110 days, Bahá’u’lláh and His companions finally reached the Black Sea and boarded a ship to Constantinople (now Istanbul). From that city, Bahá’u’lláh wrote to Sultán ‘Abdu’l-Azíz, the ruler of the Ottoman Empire, proclaiming His divine mission. The text of that communication is unknown.

In the years to come, He would write to leaders around the world, announcing His station as a Messenger of God and urging them to establish global peace. Bahá’u’lláh inspired people from many walks of life to embrace His message of love and justice.

Constantinople (now Istanbul), shown in this 19th century photograph, was Bahá’u’lláh’s home for just four months before He was exiled yet again.

Find 18 words related to the cooperation among Bahá’u’lláh’s followers on their long journey.

Search up, down, forward, backward, and diagonally.

Cheerful Detached Dedicated Devoted Eager Faithful Fortitude Friendship Generous

Helping Joyful Love Loyal Prayer Radiant Sacrifice Service Unity

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[Page 8]

Make Your Own Mini Zine

“Let us cooperate in love and through spiritual reciprocity enjoy eternal happiness and peace.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

I’m so excited about Brilliant Star’s 50th birthday! Over the last 50 years, friends around the world have worked together to create about 300 issues of this fun magazine.

For a cool way to celebrate, let’s make homemade mini magazines (zines). Like the Brilliant Star team, we can consult and brainstorm about a theme for each zine, such as friendship or helping the environment. Mine is about arts and crafts! We can create covers and put activities, stories, or puzzles on the pages.

Follow the steps below to make mini zines with your friends. Work together on one, or ask everyone to make their own. Have fun trading or sharing them. I’d love to see your amazing zines, too!

MAKE A MINI ZINE TO SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS!

You’ll Need

• one piece of 8 ½" x 11" (21.6 x 27.9 cm) paper
• scissors
• 8 pieces of 2 ¾" x 4 ¼" (7 x 10.8 cm) paper
• markers
• glue stick
• optional: decorative paper, printouts, photos and photocopies

1 Fold larger paper in half so long edges meet.

2 Fold paper in half so short edges meet.

3 Fold it in half again so short edges meet. [Page 9]

Nur’s Nook

4 Open paper and fold so short edges meet. From folded edge, cut along center crease and stop at intersecting crease.

5 (a) Open paper and refold as in Step 1. Push short ends of paper toward each other so opening forms a diamond shape in paper’s center. (b) Continue pushing paper ends toward each other until diamond closes to form a plus sign shape.

6 Fold each section of plus sign together, so zine is closed along left edge for its spine, and on bottom edge of back cover. Press zine flat to reinforce creases.

7 On smaller papers, create cover and zine pages about your topic. Draw pictures and write text, or glue on pieces of decorative paper, printouts, photocopies, or photos.*

8 Glue a finished page to each folded zine page.

9 Unfold zine. With marker, add lines along outer edges to help you when duplicating your zine.

• Ask permission before sharing other people’s words, images, or art.

Nur’s craft tips

MAKE PHOTO-COPIES OF ZINE AT 95% OF ITS SIZE. OR SCAN IT INTO A COMPUTER, OR PHOTOGRAPH IT TAPED FLAT.

PRINT OUT COPIES. CUT ZINES OUT USING LINES AS GUIDES. PUT ZINE’S COVER RIGHT-SIDE UP ON EACH COPY.

FOLLOW STEPS 1–6. NOW THEY’RE READY TO TRADE OR SHARE! [Page 10]

Are YOU Cooperative?

"The supreme need of humanity is cooperation and reciprocity." — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Competition can be fun in sports, friendly games, or science fairs. But sometimes it's a good idea to balance your competitive drive with cooperation.

School projects or service activities are often more rewarding when a group works together. It's a great feeling to be part of a team that gets along. We can use our strengths, learn new things, and get a lot more done.

When you're working with others, encourage everyone instead of trying to outshine them. Listen carefully and tell people when you like their ideas. Build unity and enthusiasm in your group by being cheerful and positive. When we cooperate with joy, everyone feels like a winner.

How are your cooperation skills?

Circle your answers, then add up your points.

1. In a service project, I try to help everyone find a way to pitch in. Often = 3, Sometimes = 2, Rarely = 1

2. I take turns sharing ideas, so others have a chance to talk. Often = 3, Sometimes = 2, Rarely = 1

3. I'm curious and willing to learn new things from others. Often = 3, Sometimes = 2, Rarely = 1

4. When solving a problem, I look for solutions that help everyone. Often = 3, Sometimes = 2, Rarely = 1

5. I'm a good sport when a game or event doesn't go the way I want it to. Often = 3, Sometimes = 2, Rarely = 1

6. If I have chores I don't like, I still do my best to help my family. Often = 3, Sometimes = 2, Rarely = 1

7. I encourage others if they're having a tough time. Often = 3, Sometimes = 2, Rarely = 1

8. I try to be humble and compliment people when they do well. Often = 3, Sometimes = 2, Rarely = 1

9. In a discussion, I listen with respect and give the speaker my full attention. Often = 3, Sometimes = 2, Rarely = 1

10. I try to imagine other people's points of view. Often = 3, Sometimes = 2, Rarely = 1

11. If my team disagrees, I stay calm and help find a solution. Often = 3, Sometimes = 2, Rarely = 1

12. When our group is successful, I share the credit with my teammates. Often = 3, Sometimes = 2, Rarely = 1

MY SCORE

36-28 POINTS: You're a champion of cooperation. Your teamwork skills can inspire others. Keep it up!

27-20 POINTS: You're on the path to cooperation. Pick a new skill from the quiz to practice with others.

19-12 POINTS: You can build your cooperation skills. Start by trying some ideas from the quiz. [Page 11]

EXPLORE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AND ITS CREATURES

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

WE ARE ONE

EARTH-SAVING TIP

Moderate at Meals

When you eat out, only take the number of plates, utensils, and napkins that you really need. Those extras waste resources and add trash to landfills.

WOW, REALLY?

Aomori, in northern Japan, is the world’s snowiest big city. It gets about 26 feet (7.9 m) of snow a year—enough to bury a two-story house.

OUR CONNECTIONS

Did you know that there’s no land at the North Pole? It’s sea ice—a giant mass of ice that floats on the Arctic Ocean, even in summer. Arctic ice influences ocean currents and how heat is distributed in the world. But sea ice is decreasing due to warming in the Arctic—and that impacts our global climate. Sea ice is critical for indigenous people and wildlife, such as polar bears and seals. Many countries cooperate to study the Arctic.

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

Dr. Mark Serreze, an Arctic climate scientist, is director of the National Snow and Ice Data Center in Colorado. He studies rising temperatures and the rapidly melting Arctic ice and says, “What the Arctic is telling us is that climate change is not some vague threat somewhere out in the future . . . but is rather already here, and here in a big way.”

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

Once home to the Vikings, this chain of 18 remote islands sits between Iceland and Norway. Sheep roam the rugged land and cliffs. Over half of the electricity comes from renewable sources—water, wind, and tides. Unscramble the letters to find the name:

RAFEO LASSDIN

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

AMAZING ANIMALS

These white animals blend in with their snowy surroundings. Two layers of fur help them stay warm. Like all of their kind, they live in packs, form strong bonds, and cooperate to raise pups. Fill in the blanks to find their name:

_ R _ T I _ _ O L _ E _

Arctic Ocean by SeppFriedhuber, Japanese castle by PixHound, Dr. Serreze by University of Colorado Boulder, islands by Amethel Parel-Sewell, animals by 4FR ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 [Page 12]

Maya’s MYSTERIES

"The acquisition of sciences and the perfection of arts are considered acts of worship." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

NATURE HELPS MY IMAGINATION GROW!

EXPLORE YOUR CREATIVITY

Have you ever tried to think of creative ideas, but felt stuck? This happened the other day when I was trying to write a poem about a red-tailed hawk. So I put down my pencil and went for a hike.

Lots of times, being in nature fills me with a sense of awe. The outdoors inspires me to be curious and try new things. Nature also helps me focus on the present moment. I love looking up at giant cedar trees. They really help me imagine things from a different perspective!

Teaming up with others can spark creativity, too. I like to brainstorm with my family. They help me come up with lots of cool ideas, and it’s fun to see what we can discover together!

What ways do you like to be creative? Check out these activities and let your imagination run wild.

SPARK IMAGINATION

Invite friends and family to see how many of these creative activities you can do in two weeks. Add your own ideas, too.

START DATE: ____________________ END DATE: ____________________

• Find inspiration at a museum or in books at the library.
• Invent three games you could play with sidewalk chalk.
• Keep a notebook by your bed to write or draw your dreams.
• Write a story or a play about what our world will be like in 20 years.
• Find an everyday item and try to list 50 different uses for it.
• Listen to music, and sketch or write ideas that pop up.
• Draw something without looking at your hand for five minutes.
• Pick a song you love and sing it with new lyrics.
• Create nature art with leaves, stones, twigs, and flowers you find on the ground.
• Experiment with a new type of art—sculpting, weaving, game design—there are tons of options.
• Draw three cool inventions you’d love to see in the future.
• Mix soap solutions and see which one makes the best bubbles.
• Gather five objects that aren’t instruments and create music.
• Ask each family member to pretend to be a fictional character while you talk at dinner.
• Create a backyard obstacle course and race through it with friends.
• Write a letter to yourself from a favorite pet or animal.
• Invent your own holiday with decorations and activities, and celebrate it with your family.
• Write a joyful word for each letter of the alphabet.
• Add your own ideas:

_________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ [Page 13]

Be as Waves of One Sea

When a group has a problem to solve, consulting in a spirit of friendship is a great place to start. Just as waves in the sea move together in a single direction, people can move in unity with consultation.

But waves can get rough. If you face stormy seas during consultation, stay calm. Turn to your faith and pray for help.

The advice below from the Bahá’í writings can inspire harmony. It was written for Local Spiritual Assemblies—groups of nine people elected to guide a Bahá’í community—but it can work for anyone.

Do you have a group project at school? First, reach out to your team with kindness. Next, talk and listen with courtesy and an open mind. With practice and prayer, solutions can flow smoothly.

READ THIS QUOTE, THEN CHECK OUT THE HIGHLIGHTED WORDS BELOW.

The first condition is absolute love and harmony . . . They must be wholly free from estrangement and must manifest in themselves the Unity of God, for they are the waves of one sea, the drops of one river, the stars of one heaven, the rays of one sun, the trees of one orchard, the flowers of one garden. Should harmony of thought and absolute unity be non-existent, that gathering shall be dispersed and that assembly be brought to naught . . . They must, when coming together, turn their faces to the Kingdom on high and ask aid from the Realm of Glory. They must then proceed with the utmost devotion, courtesy, dignity, care and moderation to express their views. —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

DRAW A LINE FROM EACH WORD TO ITS DEFINITION.

1. Harmony	A. Show plainly, prove
2. Estrangement	B. Agreement or calm
3. Manifest	C. Holy Kingdom
4. Realm of Glory	D. Respect, nobility
5. Devotion	E. Lack of friendliness
6. Dignity	F. Balance, avoiding extremes
7. Moderation	G. Love and dedication

THEN WRITE YOUR ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS.

What are two things that help with consultation? ______________________

__________________________________________________________________

What can you do to bring love and unity to a group? __________________

__________________________________________________________________ [Page 14]

LIGHTNING & LUNA

DEEP DOWN

1. 84

BAXTER AND BRIDGET

ON THE HARMONI...

GOOD SHOT!

NICE WIN, SIS!

THANKS, BAX. THAT WAS FUN. NICE TO HAVE A BREAK AFTER THAT MISSION.

THE UPLIFTERS BEING IMPRISONED WAS INTENSE.

I HATE SEEING MY FRIENDS IN DANGER AND FEELING POWERLESS.

I FELT SO HELPLESS FOR A WHILE.

BUT YOU GOT THEM OUT! YOU’RE A TRUE SUPERHERO.

WANNA TEST YOUR STRENGTH IN A REMATCH?

GAME ON, AFTER OUR TOUR OF THE SHIP.

LATER...

I’M MANTA, HARMONI’S CHIEF RESEARCHER.

WE STUDY CLIMATE CHANGE AND ITS IMPACT ON EARTH.

COOL!

THIS LEATHERBACK WAS INJURED BY PLASTIC GARBAGE.

WE FIXED HER UP AND PUT ON A TRACKING DEVICE.

LEARNING MIGRATION ROUTES HELPS US PROTECT NESTING BEACHES.

OK, NOW SHE’S READY TO GO HOME.

LIGHTNING, CAN YOU HIT THE RELEASE ON MY MARK?

OH WOW, YES!

SHE’S SO AMAZING!

SHE MAY BE NESTING IN A FEW YEARS.

MOST SEA TURTLES ARE ENDANGERED, SO THIS COULD HELP...

READY, SET... GO!

WHY ARE THEY IN SO MUCH TROUBLE?

TWO REASONS ARE POLLUTION AND LOSS OF NESTING BEACHES WITH THE RISING SEA LEVELS.

SPLAAASHH! [Page 15]THIS IS A ZERO WASTE, ECO-FRIENDLY VESSEL.

WE STUDY SEAWATER AND TRACK OCEAN TEMPERATURES AND CURRENTS.

WE’VE ALSO DISCOVERED NEW SPECIES. BUT MANY MORE ARE GOING EXTINCT FROM WARMING OCEANS.

CLIMATE CHANGE IS HUGE. HOW CAN WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

IN MANY PLACES, EACH PERSON PRODUCES TONS OF GREENHOUSE GASES A YEAR. CHANGING OUR HABITS CAN MAKE A BIG IMPACT.

LIKE RECYCLING OR RIDING BIKES TO GET AROUND.

WE CAN ALL LEARN THE FACTS AND TAKE ACTION!

YOU SOUND UPBEAT.

I HAVE FAITH PEOPLE CAN WORK TOGETHER TO FIND SOLUTIONS THAT ARE FAIR TO ALL CREATURES.

HERE’S THE SONAR ROOM, WHERE WE MAKE MAPS OF THE SEAFLOOR.

POSSIBLE SHIPWRECK, CAPTAIN.

FULL STOP.

IS IT REGISTERED?

NO, MA’AM.

SHIPWRECKS CAN LEAK TOXINS. WE HAVE TO CHECK IT.

WAIT. I FEEL A STRONG ELECTRICAL CURRENT.

YOU MEAN FROM THAT OLD SHIPWRECK?

WHATEVER IT IS, IT’S ACTIVE, NOT OLD.

MANTA, TAKE THEM IN THE MINISUB AND CHECK IT OUT.

IT’S OK, BAX. TAKE YOUR TIME.

IT’S... JUST... SUCH A SMALL SPACE.

HARMONI, WE ARE REACHING A HUNDRED METERS, OVER—

FEELS SO TIGHT IN HERE.

WHAT IN THE WORLD IS THAT? [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?

Nick L.

Age: 13 I live in: Georgia, U.S. I want to be: A genetic engineer

This career interests me because: It . . . will leave a positive impact on not only the environment, but also humanity.

Favorite Bahá’í activities: I like to do activities with my junior youth group and celebrate Ayyám-i-Há* . . .

Favorite animal: Owls. My dad and I like to observe them . . .

Place I’d love to visit: The Bahá’í holy lands in Israel

I like to help people by: Encouraging them to not give up

A hero or role model: My dad

Cooperation is important because: If the world could unite, . . . then many troubles . . . would be solved.

When team members disagree, it helps to: Give everybody [a] turn to share their idea . . .

My wish for other Brilliant Star readers: To encourage their . . . friends to learn more about the Bahá’í Faith

Atisha K.

Age: 11 I live in: California, U.S. I want to be: A photographer and a traveler

This career interests me because: My mom is a photographer, and I like taking pictures with her and helping her. I like to travel a lot, so that is why I want to travel to many places.

Virtues I admire most: Kindness, caring, friendliness

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Junior youth classes, going to Bosch Bahá’í School [in California]

Place I’d love to visit: Moscow, Russia

A hero or role model: My parents . . .

I like to help people by: Volunteering in service

How Brilliant Star has inspired me: By their different cultures and virtues they [write about] . . .

My wish for other Brilliant Star readers: Try and enjoy Brilliant Star just like how much I like it.

In 50 years, I hope: The world will be a happy place for all people and living things and so pretty . . .

Fazal M.

Age: 12 I live in: Illinois, U.S. I want to be: Author/illustrator

This career interests me because: I like to write and draw.

Virtue I admire most: Truthfulness

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Service projects

Place I’d love to visit: Hawaii

In 50 years, I hope: At least 20% of Earth is Bahá’í

A favorite food: Apples and pears

A hero or role model: Mírzá Abu’l-Fadl (I am named after this Bahá’í scholar and teacher.)

I like to help people by: Making people laugh

Cooperation is important because: Humankind needs to cooperate to move forward.

What helps me work well with others: When we can all come to an agreement, even through debate

When team members disagree, it helps to: Come up with a compromise

How Brilliant Star has inspired me: The artwork and the creativity

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

[Page 17]Elsa B.

Age: 12 I live in: Kansas, U.S. I want to be: A chef This career interests me because: I love making food for people to enjoy. Virtue I admire most: Courage Favorite Bahá’í activities: Bahá’í seasonal schools and service projects A favorite food: Char kway teow with shrimp (a Malaysian noodle dish) A hero or role model: Malala Yousafzai Cooperation is important because: People need to cooperate if we’re going to get this world out of the mess that we’ve created. What helps me work well with others: Finding common ground with them When team members disagree, it helps to: Be a mediator. Listen to both sides and find where the problem is. How Brilliant Star has inspired me: To draw a lot more In 50 years, I hope: That the world will have achieved peace . . . [and] found solutions to climate change

“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

Jian M.

Age: 12 I live in: Beijing, China I want to be: A designer This career interests me because: I like exploring different designs, sketching, and designing logos. Virtue I admire most: Truthfulness Hobbies or sports: Soccer, tennis, and making Chinese tea (there are many steps . . . I feel it is close to meditation . . .) Favorite Bahá’í activities: Junior youth group and junior youth camps A hero or role model: Piero Mazzacane, the first Bahá’í in Bari, Italy Favorite animal or pet: My dog, Aria Place I’d love to visit: Antarctica Cooperation is important because: We can accomplish so much more if everyone . . . is unified. For example, we would be able to work faster to fix global warming because no one would keep others from achieving the goal. How Brilliant Star has inspired me: I enjoy reading the different biographies of people . . . They inspire [me] to strengthen my character. My wish for other Brilliant Star readers: That all continue to grow spiritually

Iulia S.

Age: 9 I live in: Michigan, U.S. I want to be: I want to do search-and-rescue for animals, and be a veterinarian . . . a singer, and a dancer. This career interests me because: I love animals and I love to do ropes courses. My talents are to sing and dance. Favorite Bahá’í activities: I like going to Bahá’í summer schools . . . Cooperation is important because: So many things are so hard for just one person to accomplish . . . When you have more than one brain, or more than two hands . . . it’s easier . . . A hero or role model: My grandma and grandpa, and my parents How Brilliant Star has inspired me: I really like looking at the comics and the stories about other kids. Reading their stories makes me see what it looks like to stand for what is right. My wish for other Brilliant Star readers: Get involved with Brilliant Star, and use it to help other people.

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]

Kabir A.

Age: 9

I live in: Massachusetts, U.S.

I want to be: Information technologist

This career interests me because: I’m good at it and there is something new to learn every day.

Virtue I admire most: Kindness

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Children’s classes and holy day celebrations

Place I’d love to visit: Google headquarters in Mountain View, California

A hero or role model: My dad

I like to help people by: Including others

When team members disagree, it helps to: Give everyone a chance to explain why they feel that way.

How Brilliant Star has inspired me: The stories of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh inspired me to stand up for what I believe.

My wish for other Brilliant Star readers: To share the stories and facts they have learned from Brilliant Star with others

Athena S.

Age: 8

I live in: Washington, U.S.

I want to be: Teacher

This career interests me because: I want to help educate students in the best possible way.

Virtue I admire most: Kindness

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Children’s classes and Bahá’í celebrations

Favorite animal: Kitten

Place I’d love to visit: Japan, to see the cherry blossoms

A hero or role model: My sister

I like to help people by: Being respectful and kind

Cooperation is important because: It helps people to get along with one another.

How Brilliant Star has inspired me: To learn more about Bahá’í history

My wish for other Brilliant Star readers: To do a service project inspired by this issue . . .

In 50 years, I hope: That the “unity” ice cream flavors* will be available to help bring about more unity . . .

Neusha S.

Age: 8

I live in: Pennsylvania, U.S.

I want to be: An engineer

This career interests me because: I like building and taking things apart.

Hobbies or sports: Reading, writing, making friendship bracelets

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Children’s class in our local library

A hero or role model: My parents

I like to help people by: Visiting senior centers and also serving at animal shelters

When team members disagree, it helps to: Try to include others’ opinions, consult with each other, and maybe combine . . . ideas . . .

How Brilliant Star has inspired me: I enjoy reading about other children . . .

My wish for other Brilliant Star readers: To spread the word about this wonderful magazine and share it with others, too!

In 50 years, I hope: People [will] stop polluting and care more for the environment so our home, Planet Earth, can last longer.

Arian S.

Age: 8

I live in: British Columbia, Canada

I want to be: An architect

This career interests me because: I like to build and design unique structures with my LEGO [sets].

Virtue I admire most: Helpfulness

Hobbies or sports: Soccer

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Children’s classes

Place I’d love to visit: Islands in Hawaii that I haven’t been to yet

A hero or role model: My dad

I like to help people by: Helping them with school subjects

What helps me work well with others: To be cooperative by listening to others and sharing [my] ideas as well. Also, respecting . . . differences.

How Brilliant Star has inspired me: To learn more about Bahá’í role models and heroes

In 50 years, I hope: We will have [a] clean environment full of thriving rainforests. Also that all people live in peace and harmony. [Page 19]

Creative Magic

“Arts, crafts and sciences uplift the world of being, and are conducive to its exaltation.” —Bahá’u’lláh

Let’s make art to celebrate Brilliant Star’s 50th birthday this year! Our team of artists and writers loves working together to create the magazine and the website. We all started exploring the arts when we were kids—from writing stories to drawing amazing worlds. Being creative is so fun and fulfilling, we decided to do it for Brilliant Star. When we consult and cooperate with each other, ideas really come alive.

If you enjoy art, you may want to use it in your service projects or future career, too! Pay attention to the things you love to do and the ideas that spark your imagination. Those are clues that can help you choose a career that inspires you. When you unleash your creative talents, you can truly make magic!

FIND NINE ITEMS NAMED FOR VIRTUES THAT BRING CREATIVITY TO LIFE.

BRUSHES OF BEAUTY	CURIOUS CAMERA	GLITTER OF GRATITUDE
IMAGINATIVE INK	JOYFUL JAR	LAPTOP OF LOVE
PERSEVERING PENCILS	TAPE OF TEAMWORK	WATERCOLORS OF WONDER

[Page 20]

ASK 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 Bahá’í space scientists. Have questions about space? Send them to brilliant@usbnc.org (with your name and age).

How does being a Bahá’í make you see your work differently? — Kian, age 10

Hi, Kian,

For me personally, I think that as you grow spiritually, the way you work and the satisfaction you receive from work changes. You go from wanting to be the one who comes up with the answer to a problem, to wanting to encourage others and to contribute to the answer as part of a team.

Using principles of Bahá’í consultation at work is a big help. The Bahá’í writings say consultation gives us “insight into things” and enables us “to delve into questions which are unknown.” Through consultation, “the right solution will certainly be revealed.”

By cooperating and consulting, your work goals are less about satisfying your own ego—seeking recognition or impressing others with your position or education. Instead, you’re more focused on having your work make a positive contribution to the world. When you look at your work this way, you are not only getting self-satisfaction, but you are helping others, and you are worshipping God. — Steve

Global cooperation is seen on the International Space Station, which has had 239 visitors from 19 countries. The crew for Expedition 61 (above) was from the U.S., Russia, and Italy.

BACK IN TIME

During the 1969 Apollo 11 mission, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin used the lunar module, called Eagle, to land on the moon for the first time. Michael Collins stayed in space, becoming the first person to orbit the moon alone. He piloted the command module, called:

A) Eagle’s Nest B) Enterprise C) Millennium Falcon D) Columbia

Astronauts Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins, and Buzz Aldrin [Page 21]

How was the moon formed? — Sophia, age 13

Hi, Sophia,

Our best hypothesis for the origin of the Moon is a giant impact. Earth formed about 4.5 billion years ago from dust, ice, and gas around the newborn Sun. Less than 100 million years later, an object the size of Mars hit Earth head-on. The impact was so huge that it destroyed the impacting object, ejected a large amount of material into an orbiting ring of molten rock, and temporarily enveloped the Earth in an atmosphere of vaporized rock.

Over the next century, the orbiting rock cooled. Eventually, its gravity pulled together the various pieces and assembled the Moon into a molten body. Over time, the Moon cooled. After countless asteroid and comet impacts, it became the dry, airless, cratered body we know today. Through tidal interactions with the Earth, its spin slowed until it became tidally locked after about 100 million years, with one side always facing Earth and the other side always facing away. It also increased its orbital distance to appear 15 times smaller in our sky. And it slowed Earth’s rotation from an initial five-hour day to the 24-hour day we currently enjoy. — George

The far side of the moon (never seen from Earth) has many more craters than the near side. In this highlighted image, areas above 17,000 ft (5,182 m) are red, and those below -4,000 ft (-1,219 m) are blue.

STEVE SCOTTI is Brilliant Star’s STEM Education Advisor and a Distinguished Research Associate at NASA Langley Research Center in Virginia, U.S. His background is in developing 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.

GEORGE HATCHER was an avionics engineer at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, U.S., from 2004–2017. He worked on electrical systems of the space shuttle and uncrewed rockets. He also studied planetary science at the University of Central Florida. Working in avionics was a dream come true for George. He’s aspired to be an astronaut since he was three. He’s one of 100 finalists in the Mars One Project, which aims to create a human settlement on Mars.

COSMIC QUIZ

Due to its changing position, the moon goes through phases where we see different amounts of sunlight reflected from the surface. If it’s just a sliver, we call it a crescent moon. When it’s a half circle, astronomers call it a quarter moon. Between the quarter moon and full moon, it’s called:

A) Balloon	C) Gibbous
B) Three-quarter	D) Football

[Page 22]

Dr. Brian Lepard

Fire! Imagine waking up in the middle of the night to find a big wooden cross on fire in your yard! Brian Lepard was about five years old when that happened. People in his all-white neighborhood wanted Brian’s family to stop hosting race unity gatherings with African American friends, so they threatened them by burning the cross. But his parents weren’t intimidated. They just kept going.

This experience fueled Brian’s passion to work for social justice. Inspired by Bahá’í principles of peace, he got a bachelor’s degree in international affairs at Princeton University. Later, he did human rights work for the Bahá’í International Community in New York, often focusing on supporting Bahá’ís in Iran who are persecuted for their faith. In 1989, he earned a degree from Yale Law School. Today, Brian teaches law at the University of Nebraska. He’s written three books and travels the world speaking about the Bahá’í Faith and human rights. Brian and his wife, Jenina, live in Nebraska.

Q: What’s your favorite childhood memory?

A: Playing in the fields near my apartment building in Amherst, Massachusetts . . . There were these wild raspberries that we would pick, and there was a swamp there too, with lots of frogs and little animals . . .

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

A: I got good grades in school, so [other kids] would taunt me . . . I really tried to reflect on how to respond as a Bahá’í, and I talked to my parents about it . . . I tried really hard to not let it bother me and to understand that this was their problem . . . Fortunately . . . I had a small circle of really good friends . . .

Left: At about age 10, Brian enjoyed helping his parents assemble Child’s Way magazine. Right: Brian (about age 13) formed a friendship with Stanwood Cobb, an educator, author, and frequent speaker at Bahá’í conferences.

Q: Your parents, David and Mildred, launched Child’s Way magazine, which became Brilliant Star. What inspired them?

A: They were very, very involved with Bahá’í children’s education . . . They taught children’s classes at Bahá’í summer schools . . . They created what I believe was the first album of Bahá’í children’s songs . . . I think it all grew out of an effort to really develop engaging educational materials for Bahá’í children . . . that were also hands-on and involved lots of activities and projects . . . [Page 23]

Questions and Answers with an Inspirational Bahá’í

Brian and his family wore t-shirts with messages about social justice to a community picnic (left to right: son Brandon, wife Jenina, son Justin, and Justin’s wife, Alexis).

Brian achieved his dream to teach both international law and tax law. In a contest (left), Brian’s students voted for him to teach in a Luke Skywalker costume.

Q: How did your parents produce Child’s Way?

A: It was a very low-budget operation . . . My parents on an IBM Selectric typewriter would type up the text and . . . I would help cut out pieces of paper with the typewritten text, and we would glue it onto the bigger form paper to create the pages of the magazine.

Q: This issue of Brilliant Star addresses Bahá’í consultation. What’s important to know?

A: What’s unique about Bahá’í consultation is that . . . we approach the whole process with the goal of finding a better understanding of the truth or the best thing to do . . . [not] as an opportunity to convince others that what we already think is the right way . . . Our goal is to . . . learn from others in a spirit and attitude of humility . . . It’s so important that once a decision is reached, everybody try to implement it in a unified way . . .

Q: What are some things kids can do to increase cooperation?

A: One thing . . . we can all do is reach out to people . . . of a different race or religion or nationality or ethnicity, and find some projects we can work on with them . . . Not only does that build cooperation, but it also helps break down prejudices and helps promote true unity . . . Those projects . . . might be helping a child with special needs . . . or if you see someone being bullied, you and some friends get together and say we’re going to befriend that person . . . Bahá’í consultation relates directly to that, because one of the ways that cooperation breaks down is when we feel like we’re not being heard or appreciated . . .

Q: We’re celebrating Brilliant Star’s 50th birthday. Why do kids need a magazine that encourages them to be world citizens?

A: There are so many forces in our society that are trying to pull people apart . . . I think a magazine like this reminds us of what our goals are as Bahá’ís—to try to achieve unity and heal all wounds based on prejudice. And promote consultation and cooperation . . . For me, working on all those projects, all the arts, all the crafts that are in the magazine and reading those inspiring stories . . . really made the Faith come alive for me as a child and really helped me internalize these Bahá’í values . . .

Family photo by Eldon Holland, teaching photos by Bambi King [Page 24]

Future Stargazer: ____________ (Your Name)

What do you dream of doing someday? Are you amazed by space, animals, or computers? Maybe you love drawing, music, or inventing. What skills will you use to help the world?

In each issue, Brilliant Star interviews a Stargazer—someone with a cool career and a spirit of service to humanity.

We all have qualities and talents that we can let shine. When we develop them and use them in uplifting ways, we’re like shining stars.

Draw your portrait or attach your photo.

Draw who or what makes you happy.

What are your favorite things to do for fun? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

What career are you excited about, and why? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

What’s a challenge you’ve learned from? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

What’s one of your favorite memories? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

What’s something cool you’ve accomplished? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

What can you do now to prepare yourself for your future career? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

What’s one thing you can do to make the world better today? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

What places in the world would you love to visit? __________________________________________________________________

Draw yourself working in your dream career. [Page 25]

Elfland Harmony

Listening to an orchestra can feel magical. Musicians play different instruments while working together to create enchanting music. But what if they all played their own tune, without listening to the others? It would cause clamor and chaos!

Working in unity with a group can be tricky at times. Different opinions can make it hard to agree. But when shared with kindness, ideas can blend harmoniously. It helps to remember that each person has unique talents to contribute. Listen with an open mind and attentive ears to people’s suggestions. If you don’t agree, that’s okay. Try to find a compromise that’s fair for everyone. When we practice respect and cooperation, teamwork can lead to magnificent harmony.

Use the Musical Mini Code to replace each note in the quote with the correct letter. You’ll find a truth that helps us consult in harmony.

“Th_ shinin_ sp_rk o_ truth _om_th _orth only __t_r th_ _l_sh o_ _i___rin_ opinions.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá [Page 26]

SHINING LAMP

A Bahá’í who served humanity with radiance "Auntie" Victoria Bedikian (1879-1955)

Imagine training to be a musician, but suddenly becoming deaf. How would you handle it?

I didn't let it slow her down.

Born in 1879, Victoria grew up in Idaho with six sisters. They traveled between the U.S. and Germany, studying art and music. But Victoria's life changed when she lost her hearing as a kid, possibly due to illness. Leaving music behind, she devoted herself to drawing and painting instead.

When she was 22, Victoria married Dikran Bedikian. They owned an art store in New Jersey. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá visited their store during his travels to North America in 1912. Victoria became a Bahá’í seven years later, in 1919. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá wrote to her and encouraged her to devote her art to the Faith.

"Auntie" Victoria

Victoria had a special place in her heart for kids and their noble spirits. She said, "No work is greater, or more important, than the work with the children they are simply His Very Own, and need all the attention we can give to them..."

The Bedikians opened their home to kids in need and also adopted a son. They purchased 19 acres and built an orphanage and a school. At one point, over 40 kids lived there. They called her "Auntie" Victoria, a nickname she cherished. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá praised her loving care of children. He said, "Helping the poor and the orphan is service to the Kingdom of God. No benevolent deed has, or will, ever surpass it in merit."

In 1922, Victoria started a magazine for kids that was soon called The Magazine of the Children of the Kingdom. She wrote to over 100 groups of kids in countries such as the U.S., Egypt, India, Australia, and Japan. She called them "gardens," and each had a special name, such as "Rose Garden" or "Song Birds." She included letters and photos from them in her magazine. Over the years, she created other publications, too.

Building Together

Through her magazines, Victoria encouraged Bahá’ís to contribute to the first Bahá’í House of Worship in North America. She wrote letters to readers and included drawings of what the Temple would look like. She wrote, "Giving is an art! Selfless giving proves our faith and love and hope in Bahá’u’lláh!"

Victoria went on pilgrimage to Haifa, Israel, in 1927. It was a highlight of her life. She spent three months as a guest of Shoghi Effendi, the leader and Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith. He prepared her to raise funds for the Temple and communicate messages of love and unity to Bahá’ís around the world.

After her husband passed away, Victoria shared Bahá’í teachings throughout the U.S. She continued to create art and write to Bahá’ís until her passing in Georgia in 1955 at the age of 76.

Her loving letters had reached so many people that memorial programs were held for her in many countries. Shoghi Effendi called her an "indefatigable, wholly consecrated promoter of the Faith" and praised her "unforgettable" services. [Page 27]

Grow a Healthy Mindset

I had a tough time learning a new flying technique in class today. I tried again and again, but I just kept flapping all over the place. It was so embarrassing! I wanted to fold my wings and give up.

But guess what? My teacher told me I was making a great effort. She said mistakes help us learn. The key is to have a growth mindset. Your mindset is the way you look at the world. If you have a fixed mindset, you might give up easily, because you feel like you can't learn new skills. If you have a growth mindset, you see challenges as opportunities to grow. Even if things get tough, you don't give up. You know you can improve by working hard and staying positive.

I WON'T GIVE UP!

Like flying, having a growth mindset takes practice. It's like exercise for your mind. It can help your brain grow stronger, almost like a muscle! Crazy, right?

A growth mindset also helps you listen to advice with an open mind, which is important when you're learning something new. My teacher's feedback helped me. She gave me a lot of pointers, like being positive with yourself. Telling yourself encouraging things like "I'm learning so much from these mistakes" or "I'm going to get a lot better if I keep trying" can help you stay optimistic.

Learning this new technique is challenging. But I know that if I keep practicing, my wings and my brain will soar faster and stronger!

Did you know? You can learn a lot about a growth mindset from raccoons. They're so resilient that they can adapt to almost any environment. They're also smart problem-solvers. One famous raccoon learned over 100 behaviors, like how to ride a bike and sweep the floor!

Images: Photographer by Pollyana Ventura, raccoon by Betty4240

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

Explore & Soar: Practice Positivity

Try these cool ideas to boost your growth mindset.

Each day, write down three things you learned, two things you'd like to learn, and one question you want to ask someone you respect or admire.

Read about someone who overcame a major challenge in their life.

Draw a picture of yourself using your strengths as a reminder that you can fulfill your dreams.

Think about the things you're grateful for and write them in a journal, draw them, or take photos that bring them to mind.

Meditate on your goal, then visualize possible obstacles. How will you handle them?

Think of a problem you face, then ask yourself how a role model might solve it.

Create a vision board of your goals and hang it up to stay positive and motivated. [Page 28]

COSMO’S CORNER

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

WHY ARE BIRTHDAY PARTIES SO MUCH FUN?

BECAUSE IT’S TIME TO SHELL-ABRATE!

ACROSS

3. Teaming up with others can spark ___________. (p. 12)

4. Laughter and ___________ are like superpowers that can help us work together. (p. 29)

5. By focusing on what works for everyone, you can discover jewels of ___________. (p. 5)

11. When you’re working with others, ___________ everyone instead of trying to outshine them. (p. 10)

12. Dr. Scotti says, “Using principles of Bahá’í ___________ at work is a big help.” (p. 20)

13. Fazal and Jian both admire this virtue. (pp. 16-17)

14. Listen with an ___________ mind and attentive ears to people’s suggestions. (p. 25)

15. It’s Brilliant Star’s 50th ___________ this year! (p. 19)

DOWN

1. Being in nature fills Maya with a sense of ___________. (p. 12)

2. Auntie Victoria Bedikian wrote that “___________ is an art!” (p. 26)

3. Making each stage of Brilliant Star takes lots of ___________ and consultation. (p. 2)

6. When a group has a problem to solve, consulting in a spirit of ___________ is a great place to start. (p. 13)

7. Consulting is like mining for ___________ of truth. (p. 5)

8. If you have a ___________ mindset, you see challenges as opportunities to grow. (p. 27)

9. All wolves live in packs and form strong ___________. (p. 11)

10. In 50 years, there have been about 300 ___________ of Brilliant Star magazine. (p. 8)

FROM OUR MAILBOX

Brilliant Star makes me feel good. [From reading it] I have learned that you should have perseverance. The comics on the website are fun to read. [For an issue theme] I’d choose unity of all religions, because the nations are still fighting.

— William K., age 10 California, U.S.

ANSWERS

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

Pages 2–3: teamwork, inspiration, explore, sketches, activities, detectives, approve, quality, treasury, readers, mailbox

Page 5: 1) confidence, 2) cool, 3) offer, 4) options, 5) attention, 6) express, 7) courtesy, 8) honesty, 9) solutions

Page 11: Faroe Islands, Arctic wolves

Page 13: 1) B, 2) E, 3) A, 4) C, 5) G, 6) D, 7) F

Page 19: Brushes at TC, camera at CR, glitter at CL, ink at CR, jar at CL, laptop at TL, pencils at C, tape at BR, watercolors at BL

Pages 20–21: D) Columbia, C) Gibbous

Page 25: “The shining spark of truth cometh forth only after the clash of differing opinions.” [Page 29]

SUPER SWEET TEAMWORK

Teamwork can be like baking a delicious cake. Each person tosses in talents and skills to whip up something wonderful. But did you know there’s a secret ingredient? It’s having fun!

Laughter and humor are like superpowers that can help us work together with joy, friendship, and creativity. Laughing also releases stress, which makes any adventure more fun—even when you’re trying to save the planet!

Like a carefully crafted recipe, a team needs balance, too. If one person swoops in to do all the work or make all the decisions, it’s like using salt instead of sugar—yuck! It’s more heroic to work as a team and allow each other to soar.

When we all mix our powers and strengths with enthusiasm and cooperation, teamwork can be a piece of cake. And that’s a reason to celebrate!

Lightning and Luna are decorating a cake for Brilliant Star’s 50th birthday! Find your way to the top and get the party started!

IS THIS CAKE GONNA TASTE GOOD?

YOU BUTTER BELIEVE IT!

START

PARTY TIME! [Page 30]“Loving fellowship, mutual encouragement, and willingness to learn together are natural properties of any group . . . sincerely striving for the same ends, and should also characterize those essential relationships that bind together . . . society.” —Bahá’í Writings

Brilliant Star

Bound Together • VOL. 50 NO. 5

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

www.brilliantstarmagazine.org