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

Brilliant Star

www.brilliantstarmagazine.org

VOL. 50 NO. 6

TAKE ACTION FOR RACE UNITY

FOSTER DIVERSE FRIENDSHIPS

Hearts in Harmony

[Page ii]Brilliant Star BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER 1233 Central Street, Evanston, Illinois 60201 U.S. 847.853.2354 brilliant@usbnc.org 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

MANY THANKS TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS: Jeff Albert Maya Ayoubzadeh Milo Bishop Aakhil Cabot Emma Eady Lexie Eblaghie Apraih El-Shabbaz Nancy Evelyn Edward Giddings Van Gilmer Andrea Hope Joyce Litoff. Wanda Mills Maya Panahi- Laila Pethiyagoda Layli Phillips Clovy Robinson Bridgette Schnider Kaveh Shahidi Dr. J. Marshall Shepherd Henry Warren Nancy Wong Roham Yazdanpanah Nabil Zabihi

ART AND PHOTO CREDITS

Illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted By Lisa Blecker: Photos on pp. 8-9, 12 By Foad Ghorbani: Art on p. 24 Historical photos courtesy National Bahá’í Archives, unless noted

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS

By Amy Renshaw: 3, 5, 11, 14, 24, 29 By Heidi Parsons: 2, 16, 20, 22 By Katie Bishop: 4, 6, 10, 19, 21, 26 By Darcy Greenwood: 25, 27 By Lisa Blecker: 8 By Donna Price: 11, 12, 13, 14

SUBSCRIPTION RATES AND RENEWALS

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

RIGHTS, PERMISSIONS, AND CLASS USE

All content in Brilliant Star is copyrighted by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the U.S. or by individual contributors. For permission to copy or translate, use form at www.brilliantstarmagazine.org/permission-request or write Brilliant Star, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Teachers may photocopy pages in limited quantities for classroom use. "Brilliant Star" and volume/number or issue date must be present on all copies, and proper credit given to the copyright owner.

Brilliant Star empowers kids to explore their roles as world citizens. Inspired by the principles of peace and unity in the Bahá’í Faith, we encourage readers to use their virtues to make the world a better place.

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

ISSN 0884-3635

WHAT'S INSIDE

Bahá’u’lláh’s Life: Mission of Peace Learn about the powerful Fire Tablet.

Nur’s Nook Create a colorful bird and soar with equity.

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

Maya’s Mysteries What’s needed to build bridges of friendship?

FAVORITE FEATURES

Lightning and Luna: Episode #85 The Uplifters face an underwater threat!

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

Stargazer: Van Gilmer Reaching hearts and spirits through music

Shining Lamp: Robert Turner Meet the first African American Bahá’í.

Riley’s Rainforest Discover what’s great about diversity.

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

aMAZEing ADVENTURE Bebop your way to harmony. [Page 1]

NEW DESTINATIONS

• 2 Fair Play What can games teach us about unity?
• 3 Stories of Unity Unscramble clues to put an end to injustice.
• 4 Life of the Báb: The Promised One He declared His station to officials in Tabríz.
• 5 Be-LEAF in Unity Use tree-mendous virtues to foster friendship.
• 10 Quiz: Do You Take Action Against Racism? You can help cure this disease.
• 13 The Signs of Oneness If you believe in unity, how can you show it?
• 19 What Do You Say? How do you respond to racist comments?
• 20 Talking About . . . The Reality of Racism Get new insights with interviews.
• 21 Media Madness Can you spot the stereotypes?
• 24 Fun & Friendship from A to Z Start a conversation with someone new!
• 25 Flock of Fellowship What can we learn about oneness from birds?

DEAR FRIENDS,

When you hear your favorite tune, the lyrics, rhythm, and other elements blend together to create music that can make you happy. In a similar way, diverse people and cultures make our human family sing.

But sweet notes turn sour when we’re not in harmony in the world. Injustices, like prejudice and racism, tear us apart. They’re hurtful, and they endanger people’s lives and families. Racism threatens people’s basic rights to safety, education, jobs, and more. We can each play our part to stop inequality and build justice and unity.

In this issue, quiz yourself on how to take action against racism. Get tips on spotting harmful messages in the media. Practice speaking up about unfair comments. Unscramble questions to spark friendships with people of all backgrounds. And get to know Van Gilmer, who uses music to engage people’s hearts and spirits.

When we all work to free ourselves from racism and prejudices, our hearts can beat in harmony.

LOVE,

BRILLIANT STAR ☆ [Page 2]

FAIR PLAY

How do you know if something is fair? Sometimes it’s easy to see, like if your sibling grabs five cookies and leaves you one. But unfair privilege—an ongoing, unjust advantage over others—can be harder to spot. For example, people who are white and wealthy often have access to better schools and jobs than people of color, because of centuries of discrimination and inequality.

How does it feel to compete with kids who have an advantage over you, even though you have similar skills?

Play these games to show privilege in action. Talk about your experiences with friends and family.

PRIVILEGE BALL (8-20 players)

Two teams kick a ball into the other’s goal. Referee changes rules every 10 minutes, alternating who benefits. For example, goal posts narrowed or expanded; one team can pick up the ball and throw it; one team gets double points.

SIBLING SIGHT (5+ players)*

Leader thinks of a word and makes a blank for each letter in it. Players take turns guessing letters. Kids with older siblings are shown where correct letters go. Others only hear if a letter is correct. First to guess the word wins.

BIRTHDATE BONUS (5-12 players)

Place basketball on ground. Take turns tossing hula hoop to encircle it. Kids born in first two weeks of a month stand closer to the ball.

PET POWER (5+ players)*

Leader asks players to put their hands up, so they can’t take screenshots, then puts 15 objects on tray. Players study them for 15 seconds. Those with a pet get one minute. Leader hides tray, and players write as many items as they can remember.

HELPING HAND (6+ players)

Give partners a stack of 28 paper or plastic cups. They have one minute to build a pyramid with all cups, break it down, and re-stack cups. Players wearing any blue use only one hand.

ODD NUMBER EXTRA (5+ players)*

Choose a category, like animals or fruits. For two minutes, everyone tries to write the most items in that category. No internet searching allowed. Kids whose day of birth is an odd number get an extra minute.

• Play virtually or in person

[Page 3]

Stories of Unity

When people say, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” they mean that how something looks on the outside doesn’t tell you what’s inside. That applies to people, too.

Even if we don’t realize it, we all have prejudices—our brains assume we know about someone based on a quality like their race, ethnicity, or gender. When one racial group believes it’s superior and it has more power than other groups, that’s racism. For example, in the U.S., people of color are more likely to be expected to do poorly in school or commit crimes. They’re often punished more harshly than white people.

We can end unjust ideas and practices. Like diving into a new book, learning the true stories of diverse people can open our minds and hearts. Together, we can create masterpieces of friendship.

FILL IN THE MISSING LETTERS. THEN FIND WHERE THE WORDS GO IN THE QUOTE.

A _ _ OCIA _ E _ AR _ H _ A _ ILY HU _ _ A _ IT _ _ O _ E N _ TION _ LIT _ _ P _ RF _ C _ _ _ A _ ES

“__________ in __________ __________ and accord and consider humankind as one __________, the surface of the __________ as one __________ and all __________ as one __________.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá [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: The Promised One

Hájí Mírzá Aqásí was frustrated. No matter what he tried, he couldn’t stop the Bábí Faith from growing. As prime minister—one of the most powerful men in Persia (now Iran)—he was terrified of losing power if the Báb’s teachings continued to spread. He had convinced the shah (king) to imprison the Báb in the remote castle of Máh-Kú in 1847. But the warden, the jailers, and the villagers had grown to love Him.

The Báb was moved to a prison in Chihríq, an even more distant and hostile region. The jailer had strict instructions to keep the Báb in isolation. But this plan quickly backfired. When the jailer met the Báb, his heart was transformed by the Báb’s radiant spirit. Filled with love, he refused to keep anyone away.

Soon visitors flocked to His prison. More people, including respected leaders, became Bábís. Furious over another failure to suppress the Báb’s influence, the prime minister sent Him to Tabriz.

The people of Tabriz eagerly anticipated the Báb’s arrival. City officials kept Him outside the city gates, hoping to contain the excitement. But the fervor rapidly spread through the city.

The prime minister ordered the religious leaders of Tabriz to question the Báb and humiliate Him. On the day of the meeting, curious onlookers swarmed the entrance of the hall. Then the crowd parted and a deep silence fell as the Báb entered, radiating power and majesty. He confidently took an empty seat reserved for the prince.

The people of Chihríq were so transformed by the Báb’s presence that every morning, many turned toward the prison and asked for His blessing from afar.

No one dared to speak.

Finally, an official asked the Báb who He claimed to be. The Báb announced, "I am, I am, I am, the promised One! I am the One whose name you have for a thousand years invoked, at whose mention you have risen, whose advent you have longed to witness, and the hour of whose Revelation you have prayed God to hasten."

An awestruck silence fell. They asked more questions, and the Báb answered with dignity. Then He arose and, without asking for permission, departed.

Unable to dishonor the Báb as they had planned, the officials decided to punish Him. The Báb’s feet were severely beaten 11 times with a rod. Then He was sent back to Chihríq.

News of the Báb’s declaration that He was a Messenger of God spread like wildfire throughout Persia, inspiring His followers with courage and zeal. Though Bábís faced intense persecution, the Bábí Faith continued to grow and to transform people’s hearts. It would soon give birth to the long-awaited mission of Bahá’u’lláh.

[Page 5]

Be-LEAF in Unity

“Ye are all the leaves of one tree . . .” —Bahá’u’lláh

A tree can have many thousands of leaves, and each one of them has an amazing job to do. It soaks up the life-giving energy of the sun and uses it to make food for the tree. All of the leaves work together to help the tree grow and thrive.

In a similar way, each person is like a leaf on one tree. We’re all connected. Just as leaves absorb sunlight, we take in love from God and everyone around us. It gives us the strength and virtues to help the world.

We may be different from each other in race, gender, age, physical ability, personality, or opinions. We may like different things, enjoy diverse customs, or speak different languages. But we’re all noble creatures of God. When we focus on what we appreciate and have in common, we can shelter each other with love and friendship.

Match pairs of leaves to create nine words about being a true friend to all people.

I’D GO OUT ON A LIMB FOR YOU!

YOU’RE THE LEAF OF THE PARTY!

THIS PLACE IS TREE-MENDOUS!

Leaf Fragments: HUM, COOP, TIENCE, NESS, SPECT, INITIA, DOM, WORTHY, BLE, RE, WIS, TIVE, PA, KIND, ERATE, ITY, TRUST, SINCER.

WRITE YOUR ANSWERS HERE!

[Page 6]

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

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

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

1844 Recognizes the Báb as a new Messenger of God

1852 Imprisonment in the "Black Pit" of Tihrán

1853-1863 Exile in Baghdad, Iraq. From 1854-1856, He goes into the mountains to pray in solitude.

1863 April Declares Divine Mission as Prophet-Founder of the Bahá’í Faith

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

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

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

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

The Fire Tablet

The prison-city of ‘Akká (now in Israel) was a scary, dismal place when was foul, the streets were filthy, and the water was badly polluted. Bahá’u’lláh had been exiled there because officials wanted to silence His message of peace.

The Bahá’ís were treated with malice. They were also under attack by a small group known as the Azalís—supporters of Bahá’u’lláh’s half-brother, Mírzá Yahya, also called Azal. The Azalís claimed to be followers of the Báb—the Messenger of God Who came before Bahá’u’lláh. But they refused to accept Bahá’u’lláh as the Messenger that the Báb had foretold.

The Azalís lied to authorities and citizens about Bahá’u’lláh’s peaceful teachings and actions. They even changed some of His writings and gave people false versions. They spread hatred and fear of the Bahá’ís.

In 1871, Bahá’u’lláh revealed the powerful Fire Tablet. It was written for Hájí Siyyid ‘Ali-Akbar, a Bahá’í He loved dearly. It’s presented as a conversation between an individual and God.

Many verses of the Fire Tablet follow a pattern, like poetry. First, Bahá’u’lláh expresses deep sorrow, with lines such as "Coldness hath gripped all mankind" and "Calamity hath reached its height..." He then asks God a question, such as "Where is the warmth of Thy love...?" And He describes God’s exalted qualities with phrases such as "O Fire of the worlds" or "O Power of the worlds."

The next part of the tablet is an answer, in God’s voice. It includes lines such as "When the swords flash, go forward! When the shafts fly, press onward!"

Bahá’u’lláh lived in this prison cell in ‘Akká for over two years. Then He and His family were crowded into a house in the city.

Finally, at the end, comes the reply to God’s guidance: "I have heard Thy Call, O All-Glorious Beloved; and now is the face of Bahá flaming... with the fire of Thy shining word... He hath risen up in faithfulness..."

The Fire Tablet offers a glimpse of the suffering Bahá’u’lláh endured due to injustice and treachery. The verses revealed in the voice of God provide loving comfort and inspire resilience. People recite it to gain hope and strength in times of hardship.

Shortly after Bahá’u’lláh revealed this tablet, some Bahá’ís were overwhelmed by the torment from the Azalís. Bahá’u’lláh had forbidden His followers to respond violently. But ignoring His clear guidance, seven Bahá’ís attacked the troublemakers. Three Azalís were killed.

When the news spread, a wave of anger was unleashed on the Bahá’ís. Innocent Bahá’ís were harassed and pelted with stones. Bahá’u’lláh’s neighbor strengthened the wall separating their homes.

[Page 7]“Should all the servants read and ponder this, there shall be kindled in their veins a fire that shall set aflame the worlds.” —Bahá’u’lláh

Although Bahá’u’lláh had prohibited violence, He was confined for nearly three days and interrogated by officials. He responded with majesty and power, speaking so forcefully that the officials were silenced. The governor apologized and released Him. The men responsible for the deaths were imprisoned.

In time, the integrity of the Bahá’ís won the respect of people in ‘Akká. Bahá’u’lláh’s neighbor grew to admire Him. He removed the wall between the homes and offered his entire house to Bahá’u’lláh.

From His new room overlooking the sea, Bahá’u’lláh continued to reveal sacred writings. He called for justice and equality among all races, religions, and backgrounds, so world peace and unity can be established.

When their neighbor, Ilyás ‘Abbúd, removed the barrier between their homes, Bahá’u’lláh and His family used the combined house, known as the House of ‘Abbúd.

Find 19 words from the Fire Tablet that can inspire us to face hardship with courage and resilience. Search forward, backward, up, down, and diagonally.

CERTITUDE CHAMPION COMPASSION DETACHMENT FAITHFULNESS FORGIVENESS GENEROSITY GRACE HONOR JOY

H S E G F E B X E Z S Z I S U E J S S E P C R S A A V E S F C H K E O N E N C G R A C E K N O O W N C E R E C Y T E N C A C E N N L I R Y I N T V E E I R D I O F U O O O T T O V R D Q S W I R J F I S Z A L I T A A M C N W H S H C I N P G I R Z E U J S S T N T Z T T R T M T G R H A U Y U D I N Y O U I N O I P M A H C R P A D F D G T B M T S U R T X T L F J E H B O D E T A C H M E N T U L T C Q T M H Q F X Z C P O S V W R W I S I V Y N E L V B I H

LOVE MIGHT PATIENCE POWER RADIANCE SACRIFICE SINCERE TRUST TRUTH

[Page 8]

Make a Balanced Bird Sculpture

“Equity is the most fundamental among human virtues.” —Bahá’u’lláh

It’s amazing how different birds have just the right wings to keep them in balance. Some seabirds, like gulls, have long, narrow wings for soaring over the ocean. Many songbirds, like robins, have shorter, rounded wings that help them quickly move from perch to perch. Little hummingbirds beat their tiny wings fast enough to hover at flowers.

Just as birds have different wing shapes to keep them steady, we all enjoy more balanced lives when we practice equity. Equity doesn’t mean we’re all the same. It means we’re all noble, and we should be treated with respect and have fair opportunities.

We can work to fix disadvantages caused by racism or prejudice. For example, many kids of color don’t have computers they need to do homework. Or they don’t have chances to take music or other cool classes. When we end inequities like these, all kids can fly toward their goals.

WE FLY WITH EQUITY! IT TAKES US EVERYWHERE!

You’ll Need

• printed PDF template*
• thick cardboard
• scissors
• pencil
• permanent black marker
• tacky glue
• ruler
• paintbrushes
• water for painting
• white and colorful acrylic paint
• small rocks
• duct tape

1. Cut out shapes from bird patterns. Print or copy patterns from link below.*
2. On cardboard, trace each shape. Make two wings and two supports. Make three feather shapes and four legs. Cut out all cardboard shapes.
3. Glue circle for bird’s head to one end of body. For tail, glue feather shapes to other end of body. On cardboard scraps, draw and cut out head feathers, eye, and beak. Glue to bird.

• Download bird template at www.brilliantstarmagazine.org/articles/nurs-nook-bird

[Page 9]

Nur’s Nook

4 (a) Glue end of one wing to center of body.

(b) Flip bird over. Glue end of other wing to bird’s back.

5 Glue one leg shape to another. Repeat to make two sturdy legs. Glue 1" (2.5 cm) of each leg’s end to back of bird’s belly. Make sure legs extend to same length and are spaced about 1½" (3.8 cm) apart. Let dry.

6 Fold both feet at right angles where foot and leg meet (shown by dotted line on pattern).

7 Fold right angles at 1" (2.5 cm) from end of each support, to make tabs (shown by dotted line on pattern). Lay supports on legs so tab and feet creases align and folds go in opposite directions. Tape support tops to legs.

8 Glue heels of bird’s feet and support tab bottoms to base. Tabs should extend back about ¾" (1.9 cm) from each foot so bird can stand on its own.

9 (a) Be very gentle with legs and supports. Optional: paint front of bird with white undercoat. Let dry.

(b) Draw designs on bird in pencil. Include virtues that can uplift your community with fairness. Add colorful paint. Let dry. Use black marker for details.

10 Glue small rocks to base for support. Display in a room, window, or weatherproof outdoor area.

[Page 10]

Do You Take Action Against Racism and Prejudice?

"All prejudices are against the will and plan of God." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

When you're sick, it helps when you take extra care to heal the illness in your body and to stop the spread of germs to others. You may rest, eat healthy food, and take medicine.

Racism and prejudice are like a disease in our society. Everyone gets infected, even if we don't realize it. This illness hurts us all. Instead of ignoring it and hoping it goes away, we need to treat it.

Circle your answers, then add up your points.

1. I try to make friends with people from all races and backgrounds. Often 3 Sometimes 2. Rarely = 1

2. I choose books and TV shows with diverse characters. Often 3 Sometimes=2. Rarely=1

3. When I have a prejudiced thought, I try to identify it and question it. Often 3 Sometimes=2. Rarely=1

4. I do service projects with others to help build unity among all people. Often 3 Sometimes=2. Rarely=1

5. I listen and try to do better when someone says my words or actions are hurtful. Often 3. Sometimes = 2. Rarely=1

6. I talk to my family about racism and how we can help stop it together. Often 3. Sometimes=2. Rarely=1

7. I learn about the history of race and racism. Often 3 Sometimes 2. Rarely = 1

8. I reflect on my actions each day to see what I did well and what I can improve. Often 3 Sometimes = 2. Rarely=1

9. I talk to a trusted adult if I hear a racist comment or see unfairness. Often 3 Sometimes 2. Rarely = 1

10. I listen when someone shares their hurt or anger about racism. Often 3 Sometimes =2. Rarely=1

11. I pay attention to the experiences of people who have fewer privileges than me. Often 3 Sometimes = 2. Rarely=1

12. I learn about the different cultures that make up my community. Often 3 Sometimes = 2. Rarely = 1

MY SCORE

36-28 POINTS You're focused on helping to stop racism and build healthy communities. Keep up the great work!

27-20 POINTS You recognize the symptoms of racism and work to stop it. Choose a tip from the quiz to practice.

19-12 POINTS You're learning to take action against racial prejudice. Choose a few tips from the quiz to develop your skills.

Your actions can have a big impact. Learn about the history of racism. Get the facts about unjust policies and practices. Try to catch your own prejudiced thoughts or behaviors and change them. Build true friendships with diverse people.

We can all work to help stop the disease of racism from spreading. With persistent effort, our world can heal, becoming a unified home for all people.

[Page 11]

EXPLORE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AND ITS CREATURES

WE ARE ONE

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

EARTH-SAVING TIP

Love your leftovers! Leftovers are the largest source of food waste in American homes. Eating your leftovers saves time, effort, and money while helping to save the planet.

WOW, REALLY?

A typical fluffy white cumulus cloud actually weighs about 1.1 million pounds (500,000 kg). That’s as heavy as 750 cows!

OUR CONNECTIONS

What do weather forecasts and math have in common? A lot! Temperature, air pressure, and wind speed numbers come from weather stations worldwide. Weather balloons collect data in the atmosphere. Satellites orbiting the planet measure precipitation. Then supercomputers use the information in billions of math calculations every second to create forecasts. Comparing past and present data shows how the climate is changing.

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

Dr. J. Marshall Shepherd is an award-winning professor and climate scientist in Georgia who started predicting weather when he was in sixth grade. He developed a NASA satellite that studies rainfall. He says understanding climate change isn’t a “scientific issue far off in the future; this is about our life right now.”

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

Millions of girls and women haul heavy loads of water each day—some up to 12 miles (19 km). In Earth’s second most populated country, this land of sand dunes is dry and barren. Unscramble the letters to find its name:

GRTEA DNIIAN ERTSDE

●●●●● ●●●●●● ●●●●●●

AMAZING ANIMALS

Massive herds of hoofed animals circle the vast Serengeti plains of Tanzania and Kenya. It’s the world’s largest mammal migration. These two species travel together, eating different parts of the grass. Fill in the blanks to find their names:

● ILDE ● EE ● T and ● E ● RA

Images: Satellite by NASA Goddard, cow by jtyler, Dr. Shepherd by Nancy Evelyn—UGA, water carriers by hadynyah, animals by Delbars ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

[Page 12]

Maya’s Mysteries

“With faces joyous and beaming with light, associate with your neighbor.” —Bahá’u’lláh

I CAN’T WAIT TO BUILD MORE BRIDGES!

COURAGE TO CONNECT

I was excited when a new girl moved in across the street. I suggested inviting her over. But my friend Zoe didn’t want to. The new girl is African American, and Zoe, who’s white, said we wouldn’t have anything in common. I felt mad and sad.

Still, I didn’t give up. I made cookies and took them to the neighbors. And guess what? The new girl, Kiara, is really friendly and has two supercute dogs! We walked the dogs and stopped at Zoe’s house to include her. Zoe was hesitant at first, until we discovered that we all like building robots. Kiara’s going to join the robotics club with us!

It just took a tiny change—believing that strangers can be friends, and knocking on their door. It was like building a bridge between people. Speaking of bridges, Kiara showed me this cool experiment. Check it out!

BUILD A BRIDGE

You’ll Need: Four 3" x 5" (7.6 x 12.7 cm) index cards • two same-sized markers • ruler • pencil • scissors • tape • 50 pennies

1. Look at the photos in Steps 2–5. Which bridge do you expect to hold the most pennies, and why? _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________

2. Tape markers to a table, so the space between them is 3¾" (9.5 cm). Set the single index card on top. Add pennies one at a time until the card touches the table. How many pennies did it hold? __________

3. Cut another card into three 1" x 5" (2.5 x 12.7 cm) pieces. Set three strips on top of each other. Add pennies. How many did it hold? __________

4. Cut another card in thirds, and tape them together. Add pennies. How many did it hold? __________

5. For the fourth card, fold up a 1" (2.5 cm) portion on each side to make a channel. Add pennies. How many did it hold? __________

6. Which bridge worked best? Why do you think so? _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________

HOW IT WORKS: The coins cause stresses (internal forces) that squeeze together the top of the bridge and stretch out the bottom. If stresses get too intense, the bridge is stretched or squeezed so much that it fails. By folding up the sides, you increase the distance between the top and bottom of the bridge. That reduces the stresses so it can hold more coins. That’s why I-beams are used in real bridges!

[Page 13]

The Signs of Oneness

Our human family is amazingly diverse, but we’re also a lot alike. Our bodies are mostly the same inside. Each of us has a heart. We each have a brain with the wonderful ability to learn and grow. And each of us has a noble soul.

If people are equal inside, why are some people treated unfairly? It doesn’t make sense to have prejudices or act superior to others. We have to do more than just believe in equality and unity. We have to support that by acting with respect, kindness, and courage.

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

O CHILDREN OF MEN!

Know ye not why We created you all from the same dust? That no one should exalt himself over the other. Ponder at all times in your hearts how ye were created. Since We have created you all from one same substance it is incumbent on you to be even as one soul, to walk with the same feet, eat with the same mouth and dwell in the same land, that from your inmost being, by your deeds and actions, the signs of oneness and the essence of detachment may be made manifest. Such is My counsel to you, O concourse of light! Heed ye this counsel that ye may obtain the fruit of holiness from the tree of wondrous glory. — Bahá’u’lláh

DRAW A LINE FROM EACH WORD TO ITS DEFINITION.

1. Exalt	A. Deepest, most hidden or private
2. Ponder	B. Freedom from prejudice, objectivity
3. Incumbent	C. A gathering or group
4. Inmost	D. True nature
5. Essence	E. Think about carefully
6. Detachment	F. Necessary, required
7. Concourse	G. Raise to a higher rank, elevate

What are ways that people may exalt themselves over others? __________________________________________________________________

How can we “walk with the same feet” as others? ____________________ __________________________________________________________________

THEN WRITE YOUR ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS.

[Page 14]

LIGHTNING & LUNA

WILD WORLD

BAXTER AND BRIDGET #85

SOMEWHERE IN THE ATLANTIC...

WAIT, THAT’S NOT A SHIPWRECK!

IS IT LAUNCHING SOMETHING?

WE BETTER GET OUT OF—

FOOOSSSHH!

CRASHHHH!

GUUUUSSHH!

WE’RE SINKING!

COMM SYSTEM IS DOWN! GET YOUR BREATHERS ON!

I’M CALLING SOME FRIENDS.

GET READY TO EXIT.

[Page 15]THANKS FOR (COUGH) SAVING US! MANTA, DID YOU CALL THESE RAYS? YEAH, THEY’RE SUPER SMART AND HELPFUL! AND WOW, YOU CAN BREATHE UNDERWATER! YEAH, (COUGH) COOL! AND THANKS!

ON THE HARMONI . . .

GOOD NEWS—NO WATER IN YOUR LUNGS. CAN’T—STOP—SHIVERING. YOU’VE GOT THIS. TAKE SLOW, DEEP BREATHS.

LOOK, THAT COOL NATURE SHOW IS ON!

WELCOME BACK TO WILD WORLD! FAUNA AND OCHO HERE. OUR LEATHERBACK FRIEND CAN TRAVEL 10,000 MILES A YEAR IF PEOPLE DON’T INTERFERE. EARTH IS FOR ANIMALS. HUMANS NEED TO STOP RUINING IT!

WE’RE HEADING OUT TO SEARCH FOR THAT MISSILE-LAUNCHING SUB. WHERE DID THE MISSILES LAND? HUH? THAT’S THE THING. THEY DIDN’T.

HOW COULD THEY JUST VANISH IN THE SKY?

AT FAUNA’S HQ . . .

WATCH OUT, WORLD! I’M READY TO RULE WITH OPERATION WILD WEATHER! WILD STORMS! TORNADO WARNING!

[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?

Maya Panahi

Age: 13

I live in: California, U.S.

I want to be: Professional ballerina

This career interests me because: Dancing has always been my passion, and I love the feeling of dancing . . . to make people happy. I feel as if I am doing a service . . .

Virtue I admire most: Justice

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Helping teach children’s classes

A hero or role model: Rosa Parks

I like to help people by: [Making] sure to listen to how my friends are feeling so that I can help them feel better . . .

When my friends are bullied or excluded, I: Always try to help them see that these people just don’t know what they’re talking about, and that there will always be people that try to put you down.

When I feel sad about disunity or injustice: I always feel hopeful when I am helping [to] teach children’s classes, because I feel like I am helping to conquer disunity by teaching . . . kids virtues that really change them . . . We are creating unity.

Roham Yazdanpanah

Age: 12

I live in: Georgia, U.S.

I want to be: Engineer

This career interests me because: I like to put things together and build many things.

Virtue I admire most: Honesty

Hobbies or sports: Basketball, swimming, piano, and violin

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Devotionals* and junior youth classes

A hero or role model: Mom and Dad

Place I’d love to visit: Hawaii

A favorite food: Sushi

It’s important to have friends from different cultures because: You can learn about their cultures and their religions to gain a better understanding of where people come from.

When I feel sad about disunity or injustice, I: Hope that I have a chance to make a positive impact through my actions

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: I would make a law that you couldn’t be racist and encourage people to do the right thing.

Apraih El-Shabbaz

Age: 10

I live in: Nevada, U.S.

I want to be: A surgeon

This career interests me because: The human body is fascinating to me.

Virtue I admire most: Kindness

Hobbies or sports: Practicing show tunes and comedy

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Learning the history of the Faith

Place I’d love to visit: Paris

A hero or role model: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

It’s important to have friends from different cultures because: It helps you understand that stereotypes about different kinds of people are not true.

When I was excluded because of my race, I: Just ignored it

When I feel sad about disunity or injustice, I: Like to look for stories about people who were denied justice finally getting justice

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: There are a lot of things that need to be done, but the first thing I would probably do is create more programs to help people of color get out of poverty.

• Devotionals are gatherings for sharing prayers, holy writings, and music.

[Page 17]“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

Milo Bishop

Age: 9

I live in: Kansas, U.S.

I want to be: A zookeeper

This career interests me because: I love animals.

Hobbies or sports: Soccer, basketball, and breakdancing

Virtue I admire most: Kindness

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Celebrating Ayyám-i-Há* with my community

Place I’d love to visit: The Shrine of the Báb [in Haifa, Israel]

It’s important to have friends from different cultures because: You can meet new people, have fun together, and communicate better.

A hero or role model: My uncle Sepehr. He’s so kind and honest, and he helps a lot of people.

When I feel sad about disunity or injustice: It gives me hope to imagine communities in the future who don’t have racism.

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: If I saw somebody being racist, I’d immediately stop it. I would tell people to stop fighting and to live next to people of all races.

Maya Ayoubzadeh

Age: 10

I live in: Minnesota, U.S.

I want to be: A teacher

This career interests me because: I like helping . . . younger people.

Virtue I admire most: Empathy

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Children’s class

Place I’d love to visit: Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

A hero or role model: Ayoub (Hájí Muhammad Taqíy-i Nayrizí)¶

When I feel sad about disunity or injustice, I: Think that now that there is consultation, we can talk together and find a way for there to be unity

It’s important to have friends from different cultures because: You have different experiences from around the world, and it is good to learn about their differences [and] have more understanding.

To help build unity in my community: We invited all of our neighbors over for a dinner party called “meaningful talkos” [tacos] night. We had meaningful conversations . . .

Clovy Robinson

Age: 11

I live in: Maine, U.S., right near Green Acre Bahá’í School!

I want to be: Teacher or neurologist

This career interests me because: A teacher because I want to be able to help and encourage people my age and younger to learn. A neurologist because I want to figure out how we can use more than 10% of our brains.

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Junior youth group and hosting Feast!**

If I could invent an ice cream flavor to celebrate diversity: [It] would be vanilla with a dark chocolate and caramel center, because of the quote in the writings that refers to people of color as the “pupil of the eye.” It would be called Oneness.

A favorite food: My Grandpa’s mac and cheese!

Places I’d love to visit: Haifa [Israel] and Hawaii

When I was bullied or excluded: I haven’t been . . . probably because . . . some people may not be able to tell that I have African American heritage.

When I feel sad about disunity or injustice: I think about all the Bahá’ís in the world [who are] working to serve humanity and . . . praying or working to teach the Faith.

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 email us at brilliant@usbnc.org. Include your name, age, birthdate, 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).

• Ayyám-i-Há is a festival of hospitality, gift giving, and preparing for the Bahá’í Fast.
  • Feast is a Bahá’í community gathering with prayers, consultation, and fellowship.

¶ Ayoub was a Bábí and then a Bahá’í. He bravely faced persecution.

[Page 18]

Nabil Zabihi

Age: 8

I live in: California, U.S.

I want to be: Pilot

This career interests me because: I can take people from one place to another, and I get to explore the sky.

Virtue I admire most: Patience

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Children’s class

Hobbies or sports: Soccer

Favorite animal: Black panther

It’s important to have friends from different cultures because: Friends from different cultures and ethnicities have different talents and abilities . . . and I can learn from them.

A hero or role model: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

When I feel sad about disunity or injustice, I: Stay positive by remembering Bahá’u’lláh’s words (“Ye are the fruits of one tree and the leaves of one branch”) and by saying prayers for unity

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: I would make sure that all children could have an education, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, or religion.

Emma Eady

Age: 10

I live in: Iowa, U.S.

I want to be: An inventor

This career interests me because: I like making things that are useful and can help solve problems.

A hero or role model: My cousin Alivia is a hero to me. She was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer and she’s not only very brave, but always happy and positive while doing chemo and working on healing.

When I feel sad about disunity or injustice, what helps me stay positive is: The Bahá’í Faith, because I know that slowly it is making [the world] better . . .

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Children’s class and prayer gatherings

To help build unity in my community: We pray with friends and neighbors of all backgrounds and religions.

If I could invent an ice cream flavor to celebrate diversity: The ice cream will be shaped as a globe and inside there’ll be many flavors and colors, all covered in chocolate, and when you cut it, you can see we’re all part of one family or planet.

Laila Pethiyagoda

Age: 9

I live in: Utah, U.S.

I want to be: An author

This career interests me because: I really love to write, and this career lets me pour out all my thoughts and ideas onto paper.

Virtue I admire most: Honesty

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Children’s classes

When I feel sad about disunity or injustice, I: Think about ways to stop it

A hero or role model: Mona Mahmudnizhad*

I like to help people by: Standing up for them, carrying things that they can’t hold, and holding the door . . .

It’s important to have friends from different cultures because: It’s important to include them in everything and to let them feel that they are the same as everybody else, which they are, even if people tell them otherwise. Also, it [is] interesting to learn things about different cultures and ethnicities.

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: I’d give a speech about why everyone should be treated equally.

Aakhil Cabot

Age: 7

I live in: Connecticut, U.S.

I want to be: Engineer or architect

This career interests me because: I want to work for [the] Volvo Car Corporation factory.

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Attending Feast and children’s classes

When I feel sad about disunity or injustice, what helps me stay positive is: Knowing that there are many kind people in the world who want to do good things for others . . .

To help build unity in my community: We invite people in our neighborhood to . . . events that we like to have [at] our house . . .

A hero or role model: My brother, Tiernan**

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: I would create a law where people must have neighborhood gatherings that help people of different races and cultures know each other better.

If I could invent an ice cream flavor to celebrate diversity, it would be: Dough-vercity. It would taste like national fruits from different parts of the world.

• Learn about Mona at www.brilliantstarmagazine.org/articles/mona
  • Learn about Tiernan at www.brilliantstarmagazine.org/articles/sharing-love-and-hope

[Page 19]

WHAT DO YOU SAY?

“Racial prejudice . . . is unnatural and proceeds from human motive and ignorance.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

It’s painful to hear a racist joke or comment, and it can be hard to know what to do. You may think, “They’re only words. I’ll just ignore them.” But those words can have a big impact.

Strong communities start when we connect hearts and build friendships. That isn’t always easy. Prejudice and lack of awareness can put up walls between people from different races or groups.

It takes courage, but speaking up against racism and prejudice knocks down walls and builds true friendships. And that makes our lives—and our communities—much richer. What do you say when you spot racist ideas?

INTENSE EXHIBIT! I’M GLAD THOSE DAYS ARE OVER! Segregation 1957

SOME THINGS ARE BETTER, BUT THERE’S STILL A LOT OF RACISM. WE ALL NEED TO WORK TOGETHER TO STOP IT. OR I’M GLAD PEOPLE WERE BRAVE ENOUGH TO CHANGE THINGS. THEY INSPIRE ME TO HELP STOP THE RACISM THAT’S STILL HERE.

WRITE WHAT YOU WOULD SAY:

LET’S FIND ANOTHER COURT. THEY WON’T WANT US TO JOIN THEIR GAME.

WE WANT TO PLAY WITH THEM, SO MAYBE THEY WANT TO PLAY WITH US. LET’S ASK! OR WE ALL LOVE BASKETBALL. WE MIGHT HAVE OTHER THINGS IN COMMON, TOO.

WRITE WHAT YOU WOULD SAY:

WHAT’S THIS? THE MAIN CHARACTER WAS WHITE IN THE OLD MOVIE!

A LOT OF LEAD ACTORS WERE WHITE IN OLDER MOVIES. IT’S COOL THAT THERE’S MORE DIVERSITY NOW. OR I LIKE MOVIES WITH DIVERSE CHARACTERS. THE WORLD ISN’T ALL WHITE, SO WHY SHOULD MOVIES BE?

WRITE WHAT YOU WOULD SAY:

[Page 20]

Talking About... The Reality of Racism

Since the time your parents and grandparents were kids, some progress has been made toward race unity. But the world still has a lot of work to do. Prejudice and racism cause intense pain and hardship. It can be discouraging and complicated.

To help get a better understanding, talk with an adult friend or family member from a different race or ethnicity. Try to put yourself in that person’s shoes as they tell their stories. By listening with empathy and learning from others, we can help create a brighter future.

Name: __________________________________________________

Race or ethnicity: __________________________________________

Birthplace: ______________________________________________

Birth year: ______________________________________________

[Attach a photo or drawing]

Did you face prejudice or racism when you were growing up? If so, what happened? How did you handle it? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

Do you still face prejudice or racism today? If so, how? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

What is something that you want people to know about your race or background? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

What do you think causes prejudice and racism? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

What changes have you seen in how people of different races get along? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

What do you think would help end prejudice and racism? __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

Reflections

Something I learned from this interview: __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

Virtues I see in this person: __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

Something I’d like to learn more about as a result of this interview: __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

[Page 21]

Media Madness

JUSTICE

IMAGINE

CREATE

AWARE

It’s fun to visit new worlds in movies and video games. But just as the food we eat affects our health, the media we consume can impact our thoughts and actions.

Media is full of stereotypes—unfair ideas that assume everyone in a group is the same. You can see this in movies when all the heroes are white, and any people of color have smaller roles. Or when only boys and men save the day, while girls and women have to be rescued.

Like eating junk food, taking in stereotypes is harmful. We may start to expect white people to always be in charge or girls to be weak and helpless. Not cool!

To protect your brain from stereotypes, feed it carefully. You can be smart about media and help stop the madness!

At this movie theater, find words to complete tips about keeping your media diet healthy.

1. _ _ _ _ about stereotypes so you can spot them.
2. Notice when _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ is missing.
3. Think about if media is balanced and _ _ _ _.
4. Carefully _ _ _ _ _ _ what you watch or read, and think critically about stereotypes you see.
5. _ _ _ _ stereotypes when you see them.
6. Talk with your _ _ _ _ _ _ about unfairness you see in games, in stories, and in life.
7. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ how characters could be changed to make them more individualized.
8. Seek out movies, shows, and books made in different countries or with _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ who are different from you.
9. _ _ _ _ _ _ your own unique videos or stories.

CAN YOU FIND 3 STEREOTYPES ON THE SCREENS OR POSTERS?

Words in Illustration: LEARN, FAIR, NAME, CHOOSE, CHARACTERS, FAMILY, UNITY, WATCHFUL, BOLD, DIVERSITY.

[Page 22]

Van Gilmer

Can you imagine not being able to go to a certain school just because of your race? What if you weren't allowed to go into a restaurant? Van Gilmer faced such injustices growing up in North Carolina, U.S., in the 1950s. From his teenage years on, he's worked for racial justice.

Van loved singing and playing music as kid. He was also fascinated by art and architecture, and earned a degree in architectural engineering. In college, he went to Bahá’í meetings that were open to diverse people. At age 21, he became a Bahá’í. He worked as an engineer for the U.S. Navy for 37 years, performing music in his free time. In 2005, he became the Director of Music for the Bahá’í House of Worship in Illinois. He created the annual Choral Festival, which attracts 1,500 visitors from around the world. He's toured internationally and performed at Carnegie Hall in New York. Van lives in Illinois and continues to build race unity.

Q: What's your favorite childhood memory? A: The warmth of the community. I mean, we knew everybody on the street... I knew all the kids. We played. We weren't distracted by things like television. We pretended a lot. Always good things-you know, being super[heroes].

Q: What experience from your childhood set you on the path toward your current career? A: I was a little boy singing all over Greensboro. I was known in the community... I sang solos for big groups of people-banquets, funerals, weddings... I was taking piano lessons [and] learning to read music.

Left: At about age 9, Van enjoyed singing and playing music in his community. Right: Van had school band and orchestra experience when he graduated with top grades at age 17.

Q: What were your earliest experiences with racism? A: When I had to start moving into areas where there were white people, and I'd have to act differently... My grandmother would hold my hand and lead me to the back of the bus through these white people...some acting like you weren't even existing... [I thought] don't bother them, don't gaze, move fast, and get into your place in the back... I learned that white people had a much fancier place to drink water, and that the doors that said "men" and "women" did not mean [me]. That water fountain was dramatic, because it had "colored" over one and "white" over the other. The bathrooms didn't. They were hidden in closets where the black workers went.

Portrait by Joyce Litoff

[Page 23]

Questions and Answers with an Inspirational Bahá’í

At the annual Choral Festival in 2018, Van conducts a choir from around the world in the Bahá’í House of Worship in Illinois.

Q: What do you do as Director of Music at the House of Worship? A: [I direct the choir] three Sundays a month, and for other things the National Spiritual Assembly* would ask us to sing for. Music is the highway to the soul and the heart. Music lifts the spirit and hearts... If you can somehow share music with people, you might be able to get them to listen to what you have to say. Sometimes you say to them what you sing to them. That's been my philosophy... Let's try to find the words that will reach right into the heart and the spirit of the people who are on the floor in the House of Worship.

Q: What do you love about gospel music? A: Gospel music is intimately tied to black people in so many ways, because it has a beat. It sets a mood... Those who sing it make it up as they go. They do it as they feel it.

Left: In the early 1990s, Van and his family—wife Cookie, son Sean, and daughter Kimberly—formed a singing group called the Gilmer Family. Right: Van sang with the Bahá’í House of Worship choir and other musicians at a 2012 celebration of the centenary of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s journey to North America.

Q: How would you describe the purpose of the civil rights movement? A: I would describe it as beginning to stand up for the rights of all people, to be able to do anything they want to do.

Q: How has the Bahá’í Faith influenced your career choices? A: Its influence was learning to be with white people. When I came to work, I had already had experience knowing white people, which was kind of unusual... It was being comfortable with them, feeling like I am just as equal as you are. The Bahá’í Faith molded me for being a better person in the beginning of integration in America.

Q: This issue of Brilliant Star is about uprooting racism. What can kids do to work against racism in themselves and others? A: Most [white] people who are not Bahá’ís don't have any contact with black people. And so they are learning as adults what it's like to be around somebody who is black. We've got to do more at constructing it, not just trying to hope that it will happen. Maybe you do that by making sure you've got a black family anywhere around you... You can eat dinner together or you can go to a picnic and be together. Be familiar with how different we can be—and yet be the same. It's still an experience we have to make, because it doesn't easily happen, until we're comfortable with our coming together.

• The National Spiritual Assembly is the national governing body of the Bahá’ís.

Choir photo by Edward Giddings; singing by Nancy Wong

[Page 24]

Fun & Friendship from A to Z

hat's a powerful way to reduce prejudice? Make friends with someone of another race! When you do, it’s easy to see the ways we’re similar. We all have hopes and dreams. We like to laugh. We have families and friends we care about.

You can connect by starting a conversation. If you aren’t sure what to say, keep a list of topics in mind. Check out these ideas. Start with A, and unscramble each key word until you get to Z. Memorize your favorites, and think up your own ideas, too.

What A _____ (ILMANA) matches your personality, and why?

If you wrote a B___ (OBKO), what would it be about?

What’s a C (ECARRE) that sounds fun to you?

What’s one thing you D (MADER) about doing in your life?

How do you E__ (EGERUNCOA) your friends when they’re down?

How do you like to help your F (YFILAM)?

What’s your favorite G(EGMA) to play?

Who is one of your H_ ___ (RSEHEO)?

What would you like to I (VINNTE) to help the world?

If you could go on any J (JUNYORE), where would you go?

If K (SDKI) ruled the world, what would happen?

Who or what makes you L___(GAHLU) a lot?

If you could do M. (CIMGA), how would you use it?

If you could have a fictional character for a N_ (BRNHOEIG), who would you choose?

If you could be in the O (YCPLOSIM), what sport would you pick?

What’s your idea of a P. (TCEFERP) day?

What’s a Q (QUSONITE) you would like to ask God?

If you had a R ___ (BRTOO), what would you want it to do?

If you were a S (HSRUPEEOR), what would your powers be?

If you had a T (IETM) machine, what year would you visit?

If you traveled to space, what in the U (USRNIVEE) would you want to see?

What is a V (USRNIVEE), __ (TEVIUR) that you admire in people?

What’s something you W (YWROR) or stress about?

If you could be an _ X __ (PTEXRE) in anything, what would you choose?

What are three things that Y____ (UYOER) grateful for?

If you had a Z. (ZNILOLI) dollars to give away, what would you do with it?

Concept by Wanda Mills and Bridgette Schnider

[Page 25]

Flock of Fellowship

"Birds of various species and colors wing their flight and feed together without a trace of enmity or disagreement. Therefore, in the world of humanity... all the individual members should manifest unity..." — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Do you hang out with diverse friends? Birds do! Some fly with feathered friends of different species. They help each other forage for food and keep a lookout for predators. Because they spend less time watching for danger on their own, they can gather more grub. Every bird benefits!

Similar to diverse flocks of birds, we can soar with success when people of different races and cultures support each other. Diverse groups can be powerful problem solvers. Having lots of unique viewpoints helps you come up with more creative options. If you're facing a challenge, try asking people from many backgrounds for advice. You might be amazed at the egg-cellent solutions!

When we all flock together with cooperation and respect, the whole community can take flight and thrive.

COOPERATIVE CODA CREATIVE CAZI JOYFUL JAYO GIVING GOLA PATIENT PYA POSITIVE PIM RESPECTFUL REMA SUPPORTIVE SOOG TRUSTWORTHY TALUM

FIND NINE BIRDS NAMED FOR VIRTUES OF UNITY IN THIS DIVERSE FLOCK.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

WHY DID THE BIRD FLY INTO A LIBRARY? TO LOOK FOR BOOKWORMS!

Nest Sweet Nest

LOOKOUT NEST

[Page 26]

SHINING LAMP

A Bahá’í who served humanity with radiance Robert Turner (c. 1855-1909)

An single candle lit the stairway, casting shadows on the wall as a small group made their way to meet ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. It was 1899, and these were the first American Bahá’ís to go on pilgrimage to ‘Akká, in what is now Israel. Among them was Robert Turner, the first African American Bahá’í.

As they entered the room, the candlelight illumined the radiant figure of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Lost in awe, the group didn't realize that one member was missing. But ‘Abdu’l-Bahá noticed right away. He walked to the doorway and found Robert Turner waiting outside. As soon as he saw ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Robert fell to his knees, saying, "My Lord! My Lord! I am not worthy to be here!" ‘Abdu’l-Bahá raised Robert to his feet and embraced him.

Humble Beginnings

Born in Virginia around 1855, Robert was likely born into slavery. He was about seven when the U.S. banned slavery in 1863-the same year that Bahá’u’lláh declared His station as a Messenger of God.

In his 20s, Robert married a woman named Malissa, and they moved to Washington, D.C. Robert worked as a butler for George and Phoebe Hearst, a wealthy family from California. The Hearsts admired Robert's trustworthiness and wisdom. After George died, Phoebe returned to California. Robert and Malissa moved with her and bought their own house.

One day, Robert was serving refreshments to a guest at Phoebe's home when he overheard them discussing the Bahá’í Faith. Drawn to its teachings of peace and unity, both Phoebe and Robert became Bahá’ís. Phoebe organized the first American pilgrimage, and Robert joined the group.

Door to the Kingdom

The group left for Israel in the fall of 1898. They stopped in Paris and studied Bahá’í writings together. Due to racism and prejudice at that time, it was unheard of for wealthy white Americans to study and socialize with an African American butler. But the Bahá’í teachings inspired them to set aside prejudice and build bonds of unity.

In ‘Akká, Robert was ‘Abdu’l-Bahá's honored guest. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá demonstrated the high station of servitude by serving food to everyone. He once allowed Robert the privilege of assisting him. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá praised Robert's pure spirit and said that if he remained firm and steadfast, he would be a door through which a whole race would enter the Faith.

Throughout many challenges in his life, Robert kept what some Bahá’ís called "iron sight"-a clear vision of the truth. He said he refused to "let the world throw dust in his eyes."

When he was about 54, Robert fell ill. On June 15, 1909, he passed away, repeating the Greatest Name.* ‘Abdu’l-Bahá praised Robert's "utmost sincerity." He wrote, "What a shining candle was aflame in that black-colored lamp... O Thou Forgiver! Glorify the precious Robert in Thy Kingdom like unto the black pupil of the eye, he was a source of shining light."

• Alláh-u-Abhá, meaning "God the All-Glorious"

[Page 27]

RILEY’S RAINFOREST

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

DIVERSITY IS GOOD FOR US!

Team Up with Diversity

It’s so cool that there are tons of colorful birds where I live—cockatoos, parrots, and cockatiels of all shapes, sizes, and feathers. You should see our neighborhood canopy on a sunny day. It looks like a rainbow!

Not everyone is as wild about diversity as I am. When my teacher gave us a group project today, one of my teammates grumbled, “Do we have to work with the foreign birds?”

But I told him I was excited. Working with new, diverse friends can spark creativity! We all have unique viewpoints, and working with others from different backgrounds helps you see things from new perspectives. It can inspire you to think outside the box and come up with more imaginative ideas. So the more diverse your team is, the more productive it can be. Cool, huh?

Diversity is super healthy for us in other ways, too. Being around many races and cultures can decrease prejudice, loneliness, and bullying. It encourages you to make friends who have different experiences, which can enrich your life. I’ve learned so much from my friends—ways to pray, how other cultures celebrate, and how to make the most delicious mango treats ever!

I told my classmate about some of ‎these stuff this stuff‎, but he still seemed doubtful. When we met our new friends, though, he actually started to hit it off with them. We came up with some awesome ideas. And we thought of a team name: Diversi-FLY!

Explore & Soar:

Expand Your Horizons

Check out these fun ways to fly with diversity. How many can you try in 30 days?

• Read about someone from another culture and put yourself in their shoes.
• Watch a movie about a culture that fascinates you.
• Learn about the teachings of another religion.
• Listen to music from another part of the world.
• Pick a common phrase like "thank you" and learn it in six languages.
• Play a game from another country.
• Choose 10 cool places you’d like to visit someday and share them with your family.
• Try new foods from different countries.

Curiosity Canopy

Did you know that diverse animals sometimes work together? In Africa, ostriches have great teamwork with grazing animals, such as antelopes and zebras. Ostriches use their height and sharp eyesight to help alert the grazers to predators, while the grazers stir up insects and rodents for the ostriches to eat. It’s a win-win!

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COSMO’S CORNER

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

HOW DO YOU ALL SHARE THIS FOREST SO PEACEFULLY?

WE HAVE A PEACE TREE-TY.

ACROSS

3. Making a new friend is like building a _____ between people. (p. 12)

6. Weather forecasts and _____ have a lot in common. (p. 11)

7. Birds have just the right _____ to keep them in balance. (p. 8)

9. Working with new, diverse friends can spark _____! (p. 27)

11. Van Gilmer says, “Try to find the words that will reach right into the _____ and the spirit of the people . . .” (p. 23)

13. Each person is like a _____ on one tree. (p. 5)

14. A powerful way to reduce prejudice is to make _____ with someone of another race. (p. 24)

DOWN

1. Jazz expresses _____ in diversity. (p. 29)

2. With _____ effort, our world can heal, becoming a unified home for all people. (p. 10)

3. “Don’t judge a _____ by its cover” means that how something looks on the outside doesn’t tell you what’s inside. (p. 3)

4. In 1899, the first American Bahá’ís went on _____ to ‘Akká. (p. 26)

5. Our human _____ is amazingly diverse, but we’re also a lot alike. (p. 13)

8. Apraih and Milo both admire this virtue. (pp. 16–17)

10. The _____ we consume can impact our thoughts and actions. (p. 21)

12. _____ means we’re all noble, and we should be treated with respect and have fair opportunities. (p. 8)

FROM OUR MAILBOX

My mom is from Malaysia and my dad is from Iran. I am from the U.S.A. [To help heal racism,] maybe kids can get together and have some service project of some sort all together. That way, everyone can feel included . . . Everyone doing the service project will be different, but be in harmony.

—Lexie Eblaghie, age 11 Maryland, U.S.

ANSWERS

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

Page 3: “Associate in perfect love and accord and consider humankind as one family, the surface of the earth as one nationality and all races as one humanity.”

Page 5: Cooperate, humble, initiative, kindness, patience, respect, sincerity, trustworthy, wisdom

Page 11: Great Indian Desert, Wildebeests and Zebras

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

Page 21: 1) Learn, 2) diversity, 3) fair, 4) choose, 5) Name, 6) family, 7) Imagine, 8) characters, 9) Create; Stereotypes: Bold screen — male hero; Aware screen — active male and passive female; Watchful screen — only similar males in group

Page 24: Animal, book, career, dream, encourage, family, game, heroes, invent, journey, kids, laugh, magic, neighbor, Olympics, perfect, question, robot, superhero, time, universe, virtue, worry, expert, you’re, zillion

Page 25: Coda at TL, Cazi at CR, Jayo at BL, Gola at CL, Pya at BL, Pim at C, Rema at C, Soog at BC, Talum at BR

[Page 29]

MUSIC OF UNITY

“The diversity in the human family should be the cause of love and harmony, as it is in music where many different notes blend together in the making of a perfect chord.” — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Ski-bop-di-da-di-da-dip . . . You might hear fun sounds like these sung to a lively jazz tune. Jazz musicians often love to improvise, creating music and vocals on the spot. Trumpets, saxophones, and other instruments may answer one another as music bops back and forth like conversation. With roots in African, African American, religious, and brass band music, among other styles, jazz expresses unity in diversity.

Like dynamic jazz music, our friendships are always growing and changing. Life can really sing when we welcome diverse races and cultures. Stay open to everyone’s unique thoughts and experiences. Just as different musical notes work together in a song, individuals can join in love and service to uplift our communities. When we all play along and let inspiration flow, we can blend in harmony.

At this jazz concert, follow the blue music lines to reach the perfectly blended rainbow chord.

[Page 30]“We work and pray for the unity of mankind . . . that all hearts may beat as one heart, working together for perfect unity and brotherhood.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Brilliant Star

Hearts in Harmony • VOL. 50 NO. 6

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

www.brilliantstarmagazine.org