Brilliant Star/Volume 50/Issue 5/Text

[Page -1]

A BAWA'| COMPANION FOR YOUNG EXPLORERS

Star

VOL. 50 NO.5

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF BRILLIANT STAR

[Page 0]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

Baha’u’llah’s Life: Mission of Peace Friends and family joined Him in exile.

Nur’s Nook Make your own mini

ine 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

ick Lockhart - Dr. Barbara Loeding « Fazal Mato

Kian Moainie - Jian Morano - Layli Phillips

Athena Sanghavi lulia Schneeweis «Dr. Mark Serreze 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

Historical photos courtesy National Bahi'i Archives, unless noted STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS

Renshaw: 1, 14, 20

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

Maya’s Mysteries Take the creativity challenge!

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

Radiant Stars

Get to know kids who shine, like you. By Darcy Greenwood: 12, 19, 25, 27, 29

By Lisa Blecker: 8

By Donna Price: 2, 10, 1, 13,14, 20, 28

‘SUBSCRIPTION RATES AND RENEWALS Stargazer: Dr. Brian Lepard To order or renew a subscription, contact Baha'i Subscriber Service:

Tole: 1.800,999,9019 / E-mail: subscription@usbne.org He teaches about human rights and justice.

Standard U.S. rates: $18 (One year); $32 (Two years) International airmail: $38 (One year); $68 (Two years)

TE Nd zg 2 6 Shining Lamp: “Auntie” Victoria Bediki

RIGHTS, PERMISSIONS, AND CLASS USE 5 ‘Alcontentin Brilliant Star is copyrighted by the National Spirtual Assembly She empowered kids around the world.

of the Baha'is ofthe US. or by individual contributors. For permission to copy ortranslat, use form at wnmwbriliantstarmagazie.org/permission-request or write Brilliant Star, 1233 Central St, Evanston, IL 60201. Teachers may photocopy page

es in limited quantities for classroom use. “Brilliant Star” H . 7 ‘and volume/number or issue date must be present on all copies, and proper ty *¢@ Riley’s Rainforest eCHipe Bieri Las Soar to success with a growth mindset.

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

Cosmo’s Corner

and uri A crossword and more from our favorite chameleon

aMAZEing ADVENTURE Join Brilliant Star’s 50th birthday party!

ISSN 0884-3695 [Page 1]nA St Si SOS MS iS OMe mw * BOUND TOGETHER vo 50No.5

at

NEW DESTINATIONS

Creating Brilliant Star Explore the steps for making a magazine.

Life of the Bab: Transforming Mah-Ku His spirit touched people's hearts.

Consultation Rocks!

~ How can we discover treasures of truth?

Quiz: Are You Cooperative? Test your teamwork skills.

Be As Waves of One Sea Prayer can help consultation flow.

Creative Magic

~ Seek virtues that bring your art to life.

Space Ace

Scientists answer your cosmic questions.

Future Stargazer Draw your vision of your future self.

Elfland Harmony

- Cooperation is always in tune.

& ~~

DEAR FRIENDS,

Put ona 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 howa 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

Bae macnn . ‘(At te Aarne

q Brilliant SU

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, pei ANT ZAR *

Cake by trigubova, Skyline by Spectrum Studio [Page 2]CREATING Brilliant Star

ay! It’s time to celebrate Brilliant and consultation. Amazing collaborators Ye 50th birthday! My family has like you, from around the world, help enjoyed the magazine's stories, make each issue shine. The team loves interviews, and activities for generations, each other and their work. And they and | really love doing the crafts. really love to hear from readers.

Just like a firefly goes through stages As you check out the stages, fill in as it grows, making Brilliant Star has the MISSING LETTERS below to discover

stages, too. Each stage takes cooperation how the magazine comes to life for you!

@ ANNUAL MEETING @ BRIINSTORMING & RESEARCH

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

The team finds |__SPIR__TIO__ everywhere, from nature, people, sacred writings, libraries, and their travels. Creating content involves diverse contributors across , tits globe. Assignments for writing, activities, interviews, illustration, and photography are given ane

ART & PAGE DESIGN e © REFINE & FINISH Paces

Writers _XP. —_OR__ their topics and write drafts of manuscripts.

i . Artists desi i They work with editors to bounce a IBCER TN the pages with The AC_IVI_IES are ested drafts back and forth like tennis lors, graphics, and fonts and refined. Then artists ink and balls. Final versions are approved fe ei eng Tey color the sketches by hand or

4 raw SKE

and flowed into page designs. photos, arp sine digitally. Finished art and photos , [sale are reviewed, revised, and flowed

mazes, and other magic. ye into the final pages-

2 Brilliant Star % vol.s0 Nos [Page 3]. so¥ PROOFING SOSRe ON ® assoer

@® PRINTING

Design files, images, fonts, and proofs are finalized and

a ed The magazines are printed

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like DE— es get is a ie

\ethey spot mistakes, the pages 8 editors to A___ROVE. we ‘earpeyte

a ra en with the Company to make

sure the _UALI__y and color look great.

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PUBLISHING —

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the new issue, The mail house puts the

content from , t just for the website. In the magazines in envelopes and content} TRE_S_RY The next inous Library, a TRE_—>— addresses them. Then

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Brilliant Star's world at: they startthelrjourney to

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around the globe. Brilliant Star is delivered to yourM__ILBO__! ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 illi vol.so No.5 % Brilliant Star 3 [Page 4]Ss

A Brief Timeline

Soo oe bots

The hife of the Bab

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

1819 October 20 Birth of the Bab in Shiraz, ran

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 Babi Faith

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

1847 July Imprisonment in the fortress of Mah-Ku (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 Bab is martyred in Tabriz, Iran.

nthe rugged, remote mountains of

northwestern Persia (now Iran), the

Bab was imprisoned in the castle of Mah-Ku 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 Bab to this isolated spot, hoping to stop the spread of His faith. But the castle guards were immediately touched by the Bab’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.

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

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

‘Ali Khan was bewildered and trembling as he approached the Bab. The Bab explained that ‘Ali Khan'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, ‘Ali Khan was devoted to the Bab. He allowed

PO niece cE On the outskirts of the village of Mah-Ki, the castle where the Bab was imprisoned stood beneath a rocky overhang, which blocked it from starlight.

visitors to meet with Him, and brought Him the best fruits he could find. In His nine months at Mah-Ku, the Bab 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 Bab’s followers, known as Babis, came to Mah-Ku 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 Bab’s many visitors and ‘Ali Khan's devotion to Him. In response, the prime minister ordered the Bab to be sent to an even more remote prison called Chihriq.

By the time the Bab left in April 1848, the people of Mah-Ku had been transformed. Though the Bab was in prison for the rest of His life, nothing could stop the irresistible power of His spirit and His Babi Faith.

4 Brilliant Star % vol.s0 Nos

Photo © Baha’ International Community [Page 5]‘ ee — a WY 7 ’ q Y,¥.Lia A CONSULTATION ROCKS! " ) J we ) “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.” —Baha’u'llah Cy=

the ground or buried below. But if you dig up a to solve a problem or make a decision. You share your stone that’s rare and super durable, abit of polishing thoughts with humility and treat others with respect. can reveal a beautiful gem. Ideas can be like that, too. When you consult, offer your idea, and then let it go. You might think an idea is ordinary, but when people If the group doesn’t agree, try to keep an open mind, consult about it and buff it up, the result can be brilliant! instead of arguing that you know best. By focusing on Consulting is like mining for treasures of truth. what works for everyone, you can discover jewels of unity.

A dusty rock may seem dull and boring when it’s on Everyone joins together in a spirit of love and friendship

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 vol.so No.5 % Brilliant Star 5 [Page 6]The hife of Baha'u'llah

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

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

1844 Recognizes the Bab as anew Messenger of God

ft a eS Imprisonment in the “Black Pit” of Tihran

1853-1863

Exile in Baghdad, Iraq. From 1854-1856, He goes into the mountains to pray in solitude.

Declares Divine Mission as Prophet-Founder of the Baha'i Faith

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

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

Agi SV) Finally free to live in countryside homes of Mazra'ih and then Bahjj, outside ‘Aka

Baha'u'llah passes away at Bahjj.

t noon on May 3, 1863, Baha'u'llah 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.

Baha'ullah 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-Baha, the eldest son of Baha'u'llah, 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, Aqa Rida and Mirza 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).

Baha’u'llah’s eldest son, ‘Abdu'l-Baha, 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 Aqa Rida and Mirza Mahmud would still make food. After everyone ate and went to sleep, these two men stayed awake, cleaning up from the meal.

Aga Rida and Mirza 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 Baha'u'llah and His mission of peace.

‘Abdu'l-Baha 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."*

6 Brilliant Star % vol.s50 Nos

“Source: Bahduiléh: The King of Glory, by H.M. Balyuzi Photo © Baha'i International Community [Page 7]These friends stayed with Baha'u'llah for the rest of their lives, serving with radiance and love.

After 110 days, Baha'u'llah and His companions finally reached the Black Sea and boarded a ship to Constantinople (now Istanbul). From that city, Baha'u'llah wrote to Sultan ‘Abdu'l-Aziz, 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 Constantinople (now Istanbul), shown in this 19th century Messenger of God and urging them to establish global photograph, was Baha’u'lldh’s home for just four months before peace. Bahd'u'llah inspired people from many walks He was exiled yet again.

of life to embrace His message of love and justice.

Find 18 words related to the cooperation among Baha’u'llah’s followers on their long journey. Search up, down, forward, backward, and diagonally.

MAUCHEERFULYAETI FSXKADNASNAUCODF

Cheerful PIHSDNEIRFEXIOUA Helping

Detached TGEEMEKTEUFS KTI Joyful

. NENCVETCATIURIT

Heuee de AARIMOTARCLQLTH LEB

Devoted I1GLZPVLCCCIZIRE hoyal

Eager DEHORLAGPHOODROU Prayer ARBELS EAFRECEFL

Faithful RTSOCNOHHSADZODE Radiant

Fortitude EMY DETOVEDX Y ZH P Sacrifice

ou. JAGRJIOYFULQJSEPH .

Friendship LQOOYTINUAVCEERK Service

Generous LUDKRAECMHPRQQN Unity SYQEMVBEZAOJSMMR

Photo: ibusea voL.50 No.5 # Brilliant Star 7 [Page 8]Moke Your Own Mini Zine

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

Over the last 50 years, friends around the world

T so excited about Brilliant Star's 50th birthday!

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! VYowll Need

1 Fold larger paper ) in half so long

edges meet.

2 Fold paper in half so short o™N

edges meet.

+ one piece of 8%" x 11" (21.6 x 27.9 cm) paper

+ scissors

+ 8 pieces of 2%"x 4%" (7x 10.8 cm) paper

+ markers

+ glue stick

optional: decorative paper, printouts, photos and photocopies

3 Fold itin half again so short edges meet.

8

Brilliant Star % vol.s0 Nos [Page 9]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.

G bb)

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 Onsmaller 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.”

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

PRINT OUT COPIES. CUT ZINES OUT USING LINES AS.

GUIDES. PUT ZINE’S

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

STEPS 1-6. NOW THEYRE

COVER RIGHT-SIDE UP ON EACH COPY.

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

voL.50 No.5 % Brilliant Star

9 [Page 10]Are YOU Cooperative?

“The supreme need of humanity is cooperation and reciprocity.” —‘Abdu’l-Baha

ompetition can be fun in sports, friendly games, or learn new things, and get a lot more done.

¢ science fairs. But sometimes it’s a good idea to balance When you're working with others, encourage everyone your competitive drive with cooperation. instead of trying to outshine them. Listen carefully and tell School projects or service activities are often more people when you like their ideas. Build unity and enthusiasm

rewarding when a group works together. It’s a great feelingto —_in your group by being cheerful and positive. When we

be part of a team that gets along. We can use our strengths, cooperate with joy, everyone feels like a winner.

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

9. Ina discussion, | listen with respect and give the speaker my full attention. Often=3 + Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

10. | try to imagine other people’s points of view. Often=3 + Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

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

12. When our group is successful, | share 1. Ina service project, | try to help 5. I’m a good sport when a game or the credit with my teammates. everyone find a way to pitch in. event doesn’t go the way | want it to. Often=3 - Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1 Often=3 + Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1 Often=3 - Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1

2. | take turns sharing ideas, so others 6. If have chores | don't like, | still do have a chance to talk. my best to help my family. Often =3 - Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1 Often=3 - Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1

3.1'm curious and willing to learn new 7. lencourage others if theyre having a things from others. tough time. Often =3 - Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1 Often=3 - Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1

4. When solving a problem, | look for 8.1 try to be humble and compliment solutions that help everyone. people when they do well. Often =3 - Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1 Often=3 - Sometimes =2 + Rarely=1

MY SCORE

36-28 POINTS You're a champion 27-20 POINTS. You're on the path 19-12 POINTS | You can build your of cooperation. Your teamwork skills to cooperation. Pick a new skill from cooperation skills. Start by trying can inspire others. Keep it up! the quiz to practice with others. some ideas from the quiz.

10 Brilliant Star #% voL.s0 Nos [Page 11]- ; - _ Did you know that there's no — <j land at the North Pole? It’s sea — in summer. Arctic ice influences ocean currents and how heat is in the Arctic—and that impacts our global climate. Sea ice is critical for indigenous people

a ice—a giant mass of ice that Pil . floats on the Arctic Ocean, even distributed in the world. But sea

—— ice is decreasing due to warming

and wildlife, such as polar bears and seals. Many countries cooperate to study the Arctic.

a=

WHERE IN THE WORLD? F

“All the members of this endless universe 4 are linked one to another.” —Bahaii Writings )

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.

LASSDIN

EXPLoRE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AnD ITs CREATURES

WOW, REALLY?)

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.

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

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.”

These white animals blend in with their snowy surroundings. Two layers of fur help them stay

~ warm. Like all of _ their kind, they tive in packs, form strong

Unscramble the letters bonds, and

to find the name: cooperate to raise pups.

RAFEO Fill in the blanks

to find their name:

rf

R TI OL E

voL.50 No.5 %& Brilliant Star

11 [Page 12]NATURE HELPS MY IMAGINATION eRow!

in of sciences and the perfection of arts are considered acts of worshi bdu’l-Baha

EXPLORE YOUR CREATIVITY

ave you ever tried to think of creative ideas, but _ trees. They really help me imagine things from a felt stuck? This happened the other day when I different perspective!

was trying to write a poem about a red-tailed Teaming up with others can spark creativity, too. hawk. So I put down my pencil and went for a hike. I like to brainstorm with my family. They help me Lots of times, being in nature fills me with a come up with lots of cool ideas, and it’s fun to see sense of awe. The outdoors inspires me to be curious _ what we can discover together! and try new things. Nature also helps me focus on What ways do you like to be creative? Check out

the present moment. I love looking up at giant cedar _ these activities and let your imagination run wild.

SPARK IMAGINATION

START DATE: | Invite friends and family to see how many of these creative | INDOME | ) activities you can do in two weeks. Add your own ideas, too. q } | eereremnenmermnnrrent nee!

DF Ask each family member to pretend to be a fictional character while you talk at dinner.

OF Find inspiration at a museum or in books at the library.

O Invent three games you could play with sidewalk chalk.

OF Create a backyard obstacle course and race through it with friends.

DF Keep a notebook by your bed to write or draw your dreams.

Dr Create nature art with leaves, stones, twigs, and flowers you Dh Write a story or a play about what find on the ground.

our world will be like in 20 years. . . O Invent your own holiday with Ot Experiment with a new type of decorations and activities, and

O} Find an everyday item and try ani —senl alg, weaving, game celebrate it with your family. to list 50 different uses for it. design—there are tons of options.

OF Write a letter to yourself from a favorite pet or animal.

. ; OF Write a joyful word for each O} Listen to music, and sketch or [* Draw three cool inventions letter of the alphabet.

write ideas that pop up. you'd love to see in the future.

D Add your own ideas:

Or Draw something without looking D* Mix soap solutions and see which at your hand for five minutes. one makes the best bubbles.

OF Pick a song you love and sing Dy Gather five objects that aren’t it with new lyrics. instruments and create music.

=a ee oe ae

12 Brilliant Star % vol.s0 Nos

= aa

[Page 13]t Be «5 Waves 4 One ea

hen 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.

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

. Harmony

What are two things that help with consultation?

LT:

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, avoidin

7. Moderation G. Love and dedication

The advice below from the Baha'i writings can inspire harmony. Itwas written for Local Spiritual Assemblies —groups of nine people elected to guide a Baha’i 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.

,

he first condition is absolute love and harmony ... ey 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-Baha

DRAW ALINE FROM EACH WORD TO ITS DEFINITION.

LLLA | P

i

g extremes

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

YOUR ANSWERS, TO THE QUESTIONS.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

voL.50 No.5 x Brilliant Star

13 [Page 14]THANKS, BAX. THAT WAS FUN. NICE TO HAVE A BREAK AFTER THAT MISSION.

THE UPLIFTERS LHATE SEEING BEING IMPRISONED LD My FRIENDS IN

WAS INTENSE. DANGER AND FEELING POWERLESS.

az

LFELTSO |] BUT YOU GOT THEM OUT! WE STUDY THIS LEATHERBACK WAS HELPLESS |] YOU'RE A TRUE SUPERHERO. CLIMATE INJURED BY PLASTIC GARBAGE. FOR AWHILE. CHANGE AND a WANNATEST ITS IMPACT WE FIXED HER UP AND PUT YOUR STRENGTH ON A TRACKING DEVICE.

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AMAZINE!| |} } j BEACHES WITH a a THE RISING SEA LEVELS.

14 Brilliant Star % voLs50 Nos [Page 15]THIS IS A ZERO u WE STUDY SEAWATER WASTE, ECO- AND TRACK OCEAN

FRIENDLY TEMPERATURES AND VESSEL. CURRENTS. CLIMATE CHANGE IS HUGE. HOW CAN WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

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

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

LIKE RECYCLING OR RIVING BIKES TO GET AROUND.

y TD

HAVE FAITH HERE’S THE I] possipie IS IT REGISTERED? KE suIPWRECKS Hf LEARN THE fm PEOPLE CAN WORK SONAR ROOM, Fi sHIPWRECK, CAN LEAK FACTS AND TOGETHER TO WHERE WE CAPTAIN. | TOXINS. WE fF [TAKE ACTION! |) FIND SOLUTIONS INAKE MAPS OF 1 SESH) THAT ARE FAIR TO THE SEAFLOOR.

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WHAT IN THE WORLD I \S THAT?

voL.50 No.5 % Brilliant Star 15 [Page 16]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?

Age: | live in:

| want to be:

This career interests me because:

Virtues | admire most:

Favorite Baha’/ activities:

Place I'd love to visit:

A hero or role model:

| like to help people by:

How Brilliant Star has inspired me:

My wish for other Brilliant Star readers:

In 50 years, | hope:

Age: | live in:

| want to be:

This career interests me because:

Favorite animal:

Place I'd love to visit:

| like to help people by:

Age:

| live in:

| want to be:

This career interests me because:

Virtue | admire most:

Favorite Baha’/ activities:

Place I'd love to visit:

In 50 years, | hope:

Favorite Baha’ activities:

A hero or role model mv

Cooperation is important because:

When team members disagree, it helps to:

My wish for other Brilliant Star readers:

A favorite food:

A hero or role model:

I like to help people by:

Cooperation is important because

What helps me work well with others:

When team members disagree, it helps to:

How Brilliant Star has inspired me:

16 Brilliant Star # voL.s0 No5

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

[Page 17]x4

“God has crowned you with honor and

Age: 12 xs ‘ a oryole peer in your hearts has He set a radiant star; _ alala Yousafzai : : : live in: Kansas, U.S. c sion is important verily the light thereof shall brighten . ‘ooperation is importa | want to be: A chef because: the whole world!” » This career interests me People need to because: cooperate if we’re Tlove making food for going to get this world people to enjoy. out of the mess that Age: 12 rs fi fi ; we've created. Virtue | admire most: I live in: Beijing, China Courage What helps me work well . Favorite Baha’i activities: with others: Imenievola Act snst Baha’iseasonalschools Finding common This career interests me and service projects ground with them because: Ilike exploring different i b When team members 1) 6 a STs ith disagree, it helps to: designs, sketching, and Cooperation is important shrimp fait Belanmmeciator listen designing logos. hae accomplish so noodle dish) to both sides and find Virtue | admire most: much more if everyone where the problem is. Truthfulness ___ spina aia. tie How Brilliant Star has Hobbies or sports: example, we would inspired me: Soccer, tennis, and be able to work faster To draw a lot more making Chinese tea to fix global warming In 50 years, | hope: (there are many steps because no one would That the erat will ... I feel it is close to keep others from have achieved peace... meditation .. .) achieving the goal. [and] found solutions Favorite Baha’i activities: How Brilliant Star has * w é to climate change Junior youth group and __ inspired me: " junior youth camps I enjoy reading the

different biographies of people ... They inspire [me] to strengthen my character.

A hero or role model:

Piero Mazzacane, the Age: 9 A hero or role model: first Baha'i in Bari, Italy My grandma and

| live in: Michigan, U.S. grandpa, and my parents

rereukoeniineller pss My wish for other Brilliant

| want to be: How Brilliant Starh LAN oy ete Star readers: I want to do search-and- inept a ina arnas Place I'd love to visit: That all continue to rescue for animals,and {"SP!" Antarctica grow spiritually

I really like looking

at the comics and the stories about other kids. This career interests me Reading their stories because: makes me see what it Ilove animals andIlove looks like to stand for todo ropes courses.My what is right.

talents are to sing and

be a veterinarian ...a singer, and a dancer.

1. If you're age 7-14, go to www.brilliantstarmagazine.org. From the top menu, choose “Discover.” Then click “Become

My wish for other Brilliant a Radiant Star or Trailblazer,” and fill out the form. Or dance. Star readers: e-mail us at brilliant@usbnc.org. Include your name, age, Favorite Baha'i activities: Get involved with birth date, mailing address, and phone number. x Ilike going to Baha'i Brilliant Star, and use it : ; : summer schools... to help other people. . When it’s your turn to shine, we’ll send you questions

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

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...

. 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- Ys protected images (like school portraits). «x »”

voL.50 No.5 % Brilliant Star 17

[Page 18]Kabir A. Age: 9

| live in: ) ‘

Massachusetts, U.S.

| want to be: Information > a technologist

This career interests me because:

I’m good at it and there

is something new to learn every day.

Virtue | admire most: Kindness

Favorite Baha’j activities: Children’s classes and holy day celebrations

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

x

A hero or role model: My dad

| like to help people by: Including others

Neusha S. Age: 8

| live in: Pennsylvania, U.S.

| want to be: An engineer

This career interests me because:

llike building and taking things apart.

Hobbies or sports: Reading, writing, making friendship bracelets

Favorite Baha'i activities: Children’s class in our local library *

A hero or role model: My parents

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

Bab and Baha'u'llah 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

| 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:

Tenjoy 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, | hope:

People [will] stop polluting and care more for the environment so our home, Planet Earth, can last longer.

Athena S.

Age: 8

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

This career interests me because:

I want to help educate students in the best

possible way. x

Favorite Baha’ activities: Children’s classes and Baha'i celebrations

Virtue | admire most: Kindness

Favorite animal: Kitten

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

A hero or role model: My sister | like to help people by:

Being respectful and kind

Arian S. Age: 8 *

I live in:

British Columbia, Canada

| want to be: An architect

This career interests me because:

Tlike to build and design unique structures with my LEGO [sets].

Virtue | admire most: Helpfulness

Hobbies or sports: Soccer

x

Favorite Baha'i activities: Children’s classes

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

A hero or role model:

My dad

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

Cooperation is important because:

It helps people to get along with one another.

How Brilliant Star has inspired me:

To learn more about Baha'i history

My wish for other Brilliant Star readers:

To doa service project inspired by this issue .

In 50 years, | hope:

That the “unity” ice * cream flavors* will be available to help bring about more unity...

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 K has inspired me:

To learn more about Baha'i role models and heroes

In 50 years, | hope: mM

We will have [a] clean environment full of thriving rainforests. Also that all people live in peace and harmony.

18

Brilliant Star % vol.50 Nos

• To learn about unity ice cream:

www.brilliantstarmagazine.org/uploads/play/v49nt pdf [Page 19]Creative Magic 6/7 — = “Arts, crafts and sciences uplift the world of being, and are conducive to its exaltation.“s—Baha'ullah | = I

S et's make art to celebrate Brilliant Star’s 50th and cooperate with each other, ideas really come alive.

birthday this year! Our team of artists and writers If you enjoy art, you may want to use it in your

loves working together to create the magazine and service projects or future career, too! Pay attention to the website. We all started exploring the arts when we __ the things you love to do and the ideas that spark your

~ were kids—from writing stories to drawing amazing imagination. Those are clues that can help you choose worlds. Being creative is so fun and fulfilling, we a career that inspires you. When you unleash your decided to do it for Brilliant Star. When we consult creative talents, you can truly make magic! 0) om Ll —_

SS) ny WATERCOLOR BEA OF WONDER py alt M ‘ i 41 2) Ts =— | le) |e ——/ Y G = a. A A — : Dy A / fF Ay (¥y D4 > , ba Os WKS teal =, Rs

ir

voL.50 No.5 % Brilliant Star 19 [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 Baha’i space scientists. Have questions about space? Send them to brilliant@usbne.org (with your name and age).

How does being a Baha'i make you see your work differently? — Kian, age 10

Hi, Kian, For me personally, | 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 Baha’i consultation at work is a big help. The Baha’ 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.

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.

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

&

s § ¥

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 C) Millennium Falcon B) Enterprise D) Columbia

Astronauts Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins, and Buz Aldrin

20 Brilliant Star % voLs50 Nos

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 [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

The far side of the moon (never seen from Earth) has many more craters than the near side. In this highlighted image, areas above 47,000 ft (5,182 m) are red,

and those below -4,000 ft (-1,219 m) are blue.

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

S

S S Sy §

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 B) Three-quarter

C) Gibbous D) Football

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, US., 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.

Images: NASA, NASA/Goddard, suerob

voL.50 No.5 % Brilliant Star a1 [Page 22]STARGAZER

Q: What's your favorite childhood memory?

A: Playing in the fields near my

| apartment building in Amherst, ® Massachusetts .. . There were

we these wild raspberries that we

oo would pick, and there was a

J swamp there too, with lots of

— frogs and little animals .. .

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

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

Dr. Brian Lepard

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 Baha'i principles of peace, he got a bachelor's degree in international affairs at Princeton University. Later, he did human rights work for the Baha’i International Community in New York, often focusing on supporting Baha'is in lran 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 Baha'i Faith and human rights. Brian and his wife, Jenina, live in Nebraska.

F:: Imagine waking up in the middle of the night to find a

EU ASP

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 Baha'i 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 Baha'i children's education .. . They taught children’s classes at Baha'i summer schools . . . They created what | believe was the first aloum of Baha'i children's songs . . . | think it all grew out of an effort to really develop engaging educational materials for Baha'i children . . . that were also hands-on and involved lots of activities and projects ...

Brilliant Star % vol.50 Nos

N N

Portrait by University of Nebraska College of Law [Page 23]Brian and his family n| 2

wore t-shirts with messages about social justice toa community picnic (left to right: son Brandon, wife Jenina, son Justin, and Justin’s

wife, Alexis).

Answers with an

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... | would Brian achieved his dream to teach both international law and tax law. In a contest (left), help cut out pieces of paper Brian’s students voted for him to teach in a Luke Skywalker costume.

with the typewritten text, and we would glue it onto the bigger form paper to create the pages = Q: What are some things kids can do to increase cooperation?

of the magazine. 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 @ Q: This issue of Brilliant Star on with them .. . Not only does that build cooperation, but it also helps “ addresses Baha‘i consultation. break down prejudices and helps promote true unity .. . Those projects ; What's important to know? ... might be helping a child with special needs .. . or if you see someone A: What's unique about Baha'i being bullied, you and some friends get together and say we're going consultation is that... we to befriend that person . . . Baha'i consultation relates directly to that, approach the whole process because one of the ways that cooperation breaks down is when we feel with the goal of finding a better like we're not being heard or appreciated .. .

understanding of the truth or the

best thing to do... [not] as an Q: We're celebrating Brilliant Star's 50th birthday. Why do kids need opportunity to convince others a magazine that encourages them to be world citizens?

that what we already think is the A: There are so many forces in our society that are trying to pull people

right way .. . Our goal is to... apart ... | think a magazine like this reminds us of what our goals are as learn from others in a spirit and Baha'is—to try to achieve unity and heal all wounds based on prejudice. attitude of humility ... It's so And promote consultation and cooperation . . . For me, working on all important that once a decision those projects, all the arts, all the crafts that are in the magazine and

is reached, everybody try to reading those inspiring stories . . . really made the Faith come alive for implement it in a unified way... me as a child and really helped me internalize these Baha'i values .. .

Family photo by Eldon Holland, teaching photos by Bambi King voL.s0 No.5 ¥ Brilliant Star

[Page 24]Wy _ Future

\ hat 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.

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?

y

Draw yourself working in your dream career.

Stargazer:

Draw your portrait or attach your photo.

= 4 de

Draw who or what makes you happy.

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?

24 Brilliant Star # voL50 Nos

To meet this issue's Stargazer, go to page 22. Images: vectortatu, DaryaGribovskaya [Page 25]istening to an orchestra can feel magical. shared with kindness, ideas can blend harmoniously.

Musicians play different instruments while It helps to remember that each person has unique talents y ~ working together to create enchanting music. to contribute. Listen with an open mind and attentive D5 But what if they all played their own tune, without listening ears to people's suggestions. If you don’t agree, that’s j > tothe others? It would cause clamor and chaos! okay. Try to find a compromise that’s fair for everyone. -| Working in unity with a group can be tricky at times. When we practice respect and cooperation, teamwork

=. Different opinions can make it hard to agree. But when can lead to magnificent harmony.

OA = EE 28 © Fg oF \Seey Use the Musical Mini Code to replace each note in the quote withthe , / correct letter. You'll find a truth that helps us consult in harmony. }

EA iff BL y S | wae ae

wer (G8:

fay] OLN

\

y ‘a Lag if / Ly i Th__ shinin sp_rk o_ truth Y] Ui} 4 De Lis o_ _i___rin___ opinions.’. —‘Abdu'l-Baha SAI 7, oe: : ge B2ZaMN ha: AES LW5 KE }

lo \_B _F WW ce i blis

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 vOL.50 No.5 »& Brilliant Star 2]5

Cw

= ~

[Page 26]_ SHINING LAMP

A Baha 1 WMO -©" a

“"Auntie’ "Victoria Bedikian

(1879-1955)

becoming deaf. How would you handle it?

When it happened to Victoria Bedikian, she 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-Baha visited their store during his travels to North America in 1912. Victoria became a Baha'i seven years later, in 1919. ‘Abdu'l-Baha wrote to her and encouraged her to devote her art to the Faith.

[= training to be a musician, but suddenly

“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-Baha 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 Baha'ts to contribute to the first Baha'i 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 Baha'u'llah!"

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 Baha'i Faith. He prepared her to raise funds for the Temple and communicate messages of love and unity to Baha'is around the world.

After her husband passed away, Victoria shared Baha’ teachings throughout the U.S. She continued to create art and write to Baha’ts 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.

Brilliant Star % vol.s0 Nos

26 [Page 27]>

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.

Curiosity Canopy

D: 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

Grow a Healthy Mindset

ReEsT

“Send down... from the clouds of Thy

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

Explore & Soar: Practice Positivity a a these cool ideas to boost your growth mindset. o 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.

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

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

to advice with an

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

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.

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

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

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

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

o Create a vision board of your goals and hang it up to stay positive and motivated.

voL.50 No.5 % Brilliant Star 27 [Page 28]"5 CORNER

(G@ Look for Cosmo the Chameleor’s clues throughout the magazine.

WHY ARE BECAUSE IT’S TIME BIRTHDAY TO SHELL-ABRATE! HM) PARTIES SO AB mucn Fun?

OSM

3. Teaming up with others can spark

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

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)

ACROSS

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 Baha’ 6. When a group has a problem to solve, consulting in a

at work is a big help.” (p. 20) spiritof_______is a great place to start. (p. 13) 18. Fazal and Jian both admire this virtue. (pp. 16-17) 7. Consulting is like mining for___ of truth. (p. 5) 14. Listen with an mind and attentive ears 8. Ifyou have a _ mindset, you see to people's suggestions. (p. 25) 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)

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

FROM OUR MAILBOX

Brilliant Star makes me feel good. [From reading it] | have learned that you should have perseverance. The comics on the

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

i Pages 2-3

teamwork, inspiration, Page 19: Brushes at TC, camera at CR,

website are fun to read. [For an issue explore, sketches, activities, detectives, glitter at CL, ink at CR, jar at CL, laptop theme] I'd choose unity of all religions, approve, quality, treasury, readers, mailbox at TL, pencils at C, tape at BR,

b anonelti till fighti Page 5: 1) confidence, 2) cool, 3) offer, Watercolors at BL ecause the nations are still tighting. 4) options, 5) attention, 6) express, Pages 20-21: D) Columbia, C) Gibbous 7) courtesy, 8) honesty, 9) solutions

Page 25: “The shining spark of truth Page 11: Faroe Islands, Arctic wolves cometh forth only after the clash of

— William K., age 10 a Page 13: 1) B, 2) E, 3)A, 4) C,5) G, Clic ators 6), 7)F

California, U.S.

28 Brilliant Star % voLs50 Nos

[Page 29]eamwork can be like baking a delicious cake. Each person Like a carefully crafted recipe, a team needs balance, S tosses in talents and skills to whip up something wonderful. __too. If one person swoops in to do all the work or make all é But did you know there’s a secret ingredient? It’s having fun! _the decisions, it’s like using salt instead of sugar—yuckt! It’s Laughter and humor are like superpowers that can help more heroic to work as a team and allow each other to soar. us work together with joy, friendship, and creativity. Laughing When we all mix our powers and strengths with also releases stress, which makes any adventure more fun— enthusiasm and cooperation, teamwork can be a piece of BH even when you're trying to save the planet! cake. And that’s a reason to celebrate! S 7 “A cay ‘ie « 2 a 4 S t co) = ° NG

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coo? [Page 30]“Loving fellowship, mutual encouragement, and willingness to learn together are naturals 2

properties of any group. # Sincerely striving f rn

GUNES the same ends, antlenOligaceehericteris those essential relationships ae toget cie —Bahai Writings

Brilliant Star

Bound Together - VOL.50 NO.5

7 rg AN AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL - , SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHAIS OF THE UNITED STATES

A www. brilliantstarmagazine.org