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

Brilliant Star www.brilliantstarmagazine.org VOL. 51 NO. 3

QUIZ: ARE YOU A CHANGE MAKER?

EXPLORE UNITY IN DIVERSITY

Join Together

[Page ii]Brilliant Star BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER 1233 Central Street, Evanston, Illinois 60201 U.S. 847.733.3409 ★ 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 Foad Ghorbani PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Lisa Blecker ARTIST & WRITER Donna Price WRITER Darcy Greenwood WRITER Dr. Stephen Scotti STEM EDUCATION ADVISOR

MANY THANKS TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS: Nathan Bishop • Najee Brown • Franck Butaye Jessica Gaines • Shomeys Ghaderi • Amy Hahn Dr. Deanna Hence • Andrea Hope • Juliet Katirai Jessica Kerr • Kevin Locke • Quincy Loghmanee Maya Marston • Fazal Mato • Nilufar Missaghi Chief Elliott Moya • Mary Lemley Mullett Chadman Naimi • Zayn Omara • Frank Robinson Jr. Robert Sapiro • Deltin Sejour • Vera Shafizadeh Setiyana Solomon • Josee Starr • Muji Vader

ART AND PHOTO CREDITS Illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted By Lisa Blecker: Photos on pp. 8-9 By Foad Ghorbani: Art on p. 10 Historical photos courtesy National Bahá’í Archives, unless noted

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS By Amy Renshaw: 11, 12, 14, 19, 27, 29 By Heidi Parsons: 10, 13, 16, 22 By Katie Bishop: 3, 4, 6, 10, 21, 25, 26 By Darcy Greenwood: 2, 24 By Lisa Blecker: 5, 8, 27 By Donna Price: 5, 11, 14, 28

SUBSCRIPTION RATES AND RENEWALS To order or renew a subscription, contact Bahá’í Subscriber Service: Toll-free: 1.800.999.9019 / E-mail: subscription@usbnc.org Standard U.S. rates: $18 (One year); $32 (Two years) 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’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.

FAVORITE FEATURES

6 Bahá’u’lláh’s Life: Mission of Peace He loved visiting the Ridván Garden near ‘Akká.

8 Nur’s Nook Make a mini lighthouse and let truth shine!

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

12 Maya’s Mysteries What virtues can you find in nature?

14 Lightning and Luna: Episode #88 Can the Uplifters find the secret HQ in time?

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

22 Stargazer: Deltin Sejour He builds unity through expressive dance.

24 Riley’s Rainforest Can you have a prejudice without knowing it?

26 Shining Lamp: Coralie Franklin Cook She was a passionate champion of racial justice.

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

29 aMAZEing ADVENTURE Help Zeke and Rhombus fly toward peace.

ISSN 0884-3635 [Page 1]JOIN TOGETHER VOL. 51 NO. 3

NEW DESTINATIONS

2	Diverse Desserts Match tasty treats to their homelands.
3	Quiz: Are You a Change Maker? You can help uproot racism and prejudice.
4	Life of the Báb: Shrine of the Báb A majestic location honors His mission.
5	Wall of Wonder African nations are growing a greener future.
10	Feast of Friendship Activities to build unity and understanding
13	Connected Creatures How does justice relate to climate change?
19	A Remarkable Marriage The first union of a Black and white Bahá’í
20	Reach Out with Respect How can we truly honor diversity?
21	Thoughtful Transformations Practice new moves to kick prejudice.
25	See Clearly Discover tools for overcoming blind spots.
27	Unity at Green Acre Trusting friends learn and grow together.

DEAR FRIENDS,

Our human family includes about 7.8 billion people from thousands of diverse groups. Like pieces of a puzzle, every race or culture brings its own traditions, history, language, art, and more. While we look and sound different, together we create a colorful, amazing world.

But fitting together peacefully isn’t always easy. If people think one group is better or more deserving than others, we face conflict, violence, or war. We have to practice love and justice to see the best in everyone and treat them fairly.

In this issue of Brilliant Star, discover how you can help by being a world citizen. Build friendships with games and activities. Learn tips and tools for overcoming prejudice. Create a mini lighthouse with Nur to shine a light on truth. Quiz yourself on your change-making skills. And get to know Deltin Sejour, whose passion for dance unites people.

We can work together to bring kindness, respect, and compassion to the world. How will you use your unique strengths to help piece it all together?

LOVE, BRILLIANT STAR ☆ [Page 2]

Diverse Desserts

Desserts give us a delicious way to celebrate special days. They can also help us connect with people from around the world. Sharing a meal or tasty treat is a universal way to express friendship and hospitality. It’s a great opportunity to get to know people and enjoy a different culture. It can build trust and cooperation. Sweet, huh?

Preparing treats with friends or family can also give relationships new flavor. It’s fun to explore diversity by sharing treasured recipes that are bursting with memories and tradition. Bon appétit!*

These desserts are rich with diversity! Read each statement, then match the dessert to its country.

1 Mochi I’M A SOFT CAKE MADE FROM RICE IN A LAND KNOWN FOR TEA CEREMONIES AND CHERRY BLOSSOMS.

2 Malva Pudding I’M MADE WITH APRICOT JAM AND VINEGAR IN A COUNTRY WITH 11 OFFICIAL LANGUAGES, INCLUDING ISIZULU.

3 Lamington MY COUNTRY IS EARTH’S SMALLEST CONTINENT. I’M SPONGE CAKE DIPPED IN CHOCOLATE AND COCONUT.

4 Crème Brûlée I’M A CUSTARD TOPPED WITH CRISPY CARAMEL. JOIN ME AT THE LOUVRE, THE WORLD’S MOST POPULAR MUSEUM!

5 Halo-Halo MY NAME MEANS “MIX-MIX” IN THE TAGALOG LANGUAGE. I’M MADE UP OF SHAVED ICE, MILK, FRUIT, SWEET BEANS, ICE CREAM, AND MORE.

6 Picarones YOU’LL FIND ME IN THE AMAZON RAINFOREST. I’M A DOUGHNUT MADE FROM SQUASH AND SWEET POTATO.

7 Gulab Jamun OVER A BILLION PEOPLE LIVE IN MY HOMELAND! I’M FRIED DOUGH SOAKED IN SPICES AND SWEET SYRUP.

8 Gaz I’M A CHEWY TREAT MADE WITH PISTACHIOS. I’M FAMOUS IN MY HOME CITY OF ISFAHÁN.

TODAY’S DESSERTS ARE FROM:

• A AUSTRALIA
• B FRANCE
• C INDIA
• D IRAN
• E JAPAN
• F PERU
• G SOUTH AFRICA
• H THE PHILIPPINES

• French: Bon appétit = Enjoy your meal (literally “good appetite”)

[Page 3]

Are You a Change Maker?

“Racism . . . cannot be rooted out by contest and conflict. It must be supplanted by the establishment of just relationships . . .” —Bahá’í Writings

Turning a patch of weeds into a growing garden is a major transformation! You dig deep to pull up every weed. Then you plant new seeds and make sure they get water and sunlight. It’s a lot of work! But in time, your garden bursts with new life.

Our human family is like a garden. Just as different plants and flowers make a garden beautiful, diverse people make our world bloom. But like harmful weeds, racism and injustice block growth.

We want every person to thrive, so we have major changes to make. When we see racist words or actions, we can speak up or talk about it with family and friends. If we spot our own prejudiced thoughts, we can uproot them. We can cooperate with others to help our communities blossom and grow.

Ending racism is a huge task that seems overwhelming. But each of us can make a difference. With love and perseverance, we can help diversity flourish!

Do you help change take root? Circle your answers, then add up your points.

1. I try to make friends with people of all backgrounds and help everyone feel welcome in my school and community. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

2. Using empathy and compassion, I listen to diverse people and different points of view. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

3. I learn about the experiences of people from different races, religions, and backgrounds. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

4. I speak up when I see unfairness in my school or community. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

5. I talk with friends and family about racism and what we can do to help end it. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

6. I focus on changes I have the power to make, even if they’re small. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

7. I learn new skills and develop virtues I can use to help the world. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

8. I pray and reflect on the need for unity in diversity so I can stay motivated. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

9. I watch out for racist ideas, actions, or characters in movies, books, and media. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

10. I look at my own attitudes and try to overcome prejudices. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

11. I make a point to encourage others and tell them what I admire and appreciate about them. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

12. I get involved in or help create service projects with diverse people. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

MY SCORE [____]

36–28 POINTS Your change-maker skills are flourishing! You uproot the weeds of racism to help diversity thrive.

27–20 POINTS You’re learning how to nurture oneness with diverse people. Choose a tip from the quiz to practice.

19–12 POINTS Keep going! To help your garden grow, choose a few ideas from the quiz to strengthen your skills.

Images: Qvasimodo [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 Chihriq (The Grievous Mountain)

1848 July Declares His mission to leaders in Tabriz, Iran, and is punished with the bastinado

1850 July 9 The Báb is martyred in Tabriz, Iran.

Life of the Báb: Shrine of the Báb

When the Báb was martyred in Tabriz, Persia (now Iran) in 1850, His remains were taken to a moat outside the city gates. Forty guards took turns keeping watch over them. The next night, Bábís carried out a daring mission and rescued the remains. They wrapped them in a cloak, placed them in a wooden casket, and hid them in a silk factory until they could be moved to a safer place.

For 60 years, the wooden casket was hidden in secret locations. Protecting it was a sacred task. To keep it safe, only a few people ever knew where it was. Sometimes it was buried inside Muslim shrines, and at other times it was hidden in people’s homes. Bahá’u’lláh guided the process at every step.

After Bahá’u’lláh passed away, His son, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, became the leader of the Bahá’í community. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá had the Báb’s remains secretly moved to Israel. They were hidden for 10 years while a simple stone shrine was built on Mt. Carmel in Haifa.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, “Every stone of that building, every stone of the road leading to it, I have with infinite tears and at tremendous cost, raised and placed in position.”

Finally, in 1909, the Báb was laid to rest. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá placed the wooden casket holding the sacred remains in a marble coffin sent by Bahá’ís from what is now Myanmar. Overcome with emotion, he threw off his turban and cloak. With his silver hair flowing freely around him, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá bent his forehead to the wooden casket and wept.

The Shrine of the Báb is “a monument to the triumph of love over hate,” says the Universal House of Justice, the global governing body of the Bahá’í Faith.

Years later, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s grandson, Shoghi Effendi, developed the gardens and shrine. He worked with Canadian architect Sutherland Maxwell to build the shrine’s magnificent outer structure.* It was completed in 1953, and Shoghi Effendi called it the “QUEEN OF CARMEL ENTHRONED” on “GOD’S MOUNTAIN...”

The Shrine of the Báb surrounds this simple structure.

With its white marble walls, emerald green details, and golden dome, the Shrine of the Báb shines radiantly on the slope of Mt. Carmel. When Bahá’u’lláh chose the shrine’s location, it was a rugged mountainside with few visitors. It took patience, perseverance, and collaboration to transform it into a beautiful pilgrimage site.

In 2008, the Shrine of the Báb became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, honoring its value to humanity. Its terraced gardens attract hundreds of thousands of visitors yearly. It is one of the holiest spots on Earth for Bahá’ís.

Photos Bahá’í International Community

• Learn more about Sutherland Maxwell: www.brilliantstarmagazine.org/articles/william-sutherland-maxwell-1874-1952

[Page 5]

Wall of Wonder

Near the Sahara Desert in North Africa, an amazing example of cooperation is taking root. More than 20 countries are creating a Great Green Wall in a region called the Sahel. Over 100 million people live there, but as Earth’s climate changes and rain decreases, it gets harder to grow crops and feed animals.

To help, local people are planting millions of native trees and crops in a 5,000-mile (8,000 km) area.

Regional farmers are finding ways to restore the soil and make it more fertile. The “wall” will reduce erosion, provide jobs and food, and improve lives.

The teamwork of these African countries builds unity and justice. All people have a right to food, water, and other resources. The Great Green Wall shows that even in the most challenging situations, we can work together to build a better, greener world.

In this jujube tree, fill in the blanks with letters to find words that help us care for Earth and each other. Connected fruits have the same letter.

THE GREAT GREEN WALL WILL STRETCH ACROSS AFRICA! [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 Ridván Garden

What if you loved the outdoors, but had to go almost 10 years without seeing nature? This happened to Bahá’u’lláh when He was a prisoner in ‘Akká from 1868 to 1877. He loved the outdoors and described the country as "the world of the soul..." But when He was imprisoned because of His Faith, He was forbidden from seeing any of the natural beauty that He loved so much.

Certain that Bahá’u’lláh would be released from ‘Akká, His eldest son, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, rented a garden and began preparing it for Him. When Bahá’u’lláh was finally allowed to leave ‘Akká and move to the nearby countryside, He visited the garden often, especially from spring through early autumn.

To help the garden flourish, friends brought in rich soil for the flower beds. When Bahá’ís from other countries visited, some would travel for months, carrying unique plants from their homelands. Their journeys were often dangerous, but they took great care to ensure that the plants arrived safely. They were so happy to have the opportunity to bring a beautiful gift to Bahá’u’lláh.

With great love, dedication, and care, the garden was filled with vibrant plants of all kinds, making it a truly refreshing and joyful place. It was surrounded by two streams, and a bubbling fountain in the center provided water for the plants. Weeping willow and fruit trees offered shade on warm days. Friends could rest on benches beneath large mulberry trees while the sweet smell of flowers perfumed the air. The diverse flowers created such beauty and peace that Bahá’u’lláh called it the Ridván Garden, meaning "Paradise."

In one passage, Bahá’u’lláh referred to the Ridván Garden as "Our Green Island" and said, "We beheld its streams flowing, and its trees luxuriant, and the sunlight playing in their midst."

Whenever Bahá’u’lláh visited the Ridván Garden, it was cause for tremendous joy and excitement. Bahá’ís would gather and sometimes share a feast to celebrate. Bahá’u’lláh's granddaughter, who was a child at the time, later said, "Only those who were present there could realize in any degree what it meant to be surrounded by such profusion of flowers, their colors and their scents, after the dull walls and unfragrant odours of the prison city. I remember well the greatest of our joys was to go with Bahá’u’lláh for the occasional picnics to the Ridván."

During this time, Bahá’u’lláh revealed many tablets, sharing His teachings of peace and justice. He said, "That one indeed is a man who, today, dedicateth himself to the service of the entire human race." He encourages us to eliminate prejudice so diversity can bloom like the colorful flowers of the Ridván Garden. Then we can build real unity for all of humanity.

Image: Bahá’í International Community. [Page 7]“O FRIEND! In the garden of thy heart plant naught but the rose of love . . .” —Bahá’u’lláh

Connect with Friends

Celebrate the diverse beauty of nature with these games and crafts!

Nature Hunt

Give each friend a blank 4 x 4 grid. On each square, ask them to draw a picture of a sight or sound from nature (such as a squirrel or chirping birds). Ask friends to trade grids, then grab a pencil and go on a nature walk. See who can be the first to find four items in a row on their sheet. Try to continue until everyone finds all the items.

Nature Frames

Ask everyone to draw a simple shape, like a heart or tree, on a piece of cardboard. Cut out the center of the shape, leaving a border of about 1" (2.5 cm). Take turns holding the frames up to different colors and textures (like grass or tree bark) while a friend takes a photo.

Community Garden

Give each friend a 4" x 4" (10 x 10 cm) square of paper with the outline of a flower on it. Everyone uses markers to decorate their flower, adding vibrant colors and designs. Tape the squares to a large sheet of paper to form a larger shape, such as a circle or a heart, creating a colorful garden mural.

ABC’s of Nature

Sit in a circle and choose a category (such as flowers or animals). One person says a word from the category that starts with “A” (such as antelope). The next person finds a word that starts with “B,” and so on around the circle. If a player can’t think of a word, ask a friend to help. Continue until you reach “Z,” then pick a new category. [Page 8]

Light of Truth: Make a Lighthouse

“The light of truth kindled in your hearts will shine out to the distant horizon!” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

My family and I love to soar over and hang out at the beach! It’s fun to watch the lighthouse shine in the night sky. Its lantern flashes on and off in a pattern that tells sailors where they are. Even when sailors navigate using satellite signals, lighthouses still help them find their way and steer clear of dangers like rocks.

The lighthouse reminds me that truth is like a powerful light, too. Especially when I talk honestly about tough things like prejudice and racism. Sometimes our neighbors come over for “Unity Talks & Treats” night. It isn’t easy to listen to people’s struggles with racism, but it’s a great way to learn. It helps us see how we can navigate challenges and sail toward justice.

Make your own mini lighthouse with me. Use it in your prayer gatherings or to light up your conversations about reaching race unity.

MY LIGHTHOUSE REMINDS ME TO SHARE MY TRUTH!

You’ll Need

• two 16 oz. (473 mL) paper drink cups with one lid
• black, white, and colorful paper
• scissors
• pencil
• tacky glue
• ruler
• plastic 20 oz. (591 mL) water bottle without label
• small paper plate
• nature items (e.g., small rocks, pebbles, sand, seashells, decorative moss)
• battery-operated candle

1. Cut side and base seams of one cup, removing cup’s bottom. Trim to smooth edges.
2. Press cup flat on white paper. Trace with pencil and cut out. Repeat with colorful paper.
3. On colorful paper, draw evenly spaced lines about 1" (2.5 cm) apart that follow curves at top and bottom of shape. Cut along lines to make stripes.

[Page 9]

Nur’s Nook

4 (a) Glue a few stripes to white paper so they’re centered and evenly spaced. (b) Glue striped paper to second (uncut) cup.

5 With adult help, carefully cut off top of bottle, just above widest portion. Cut off bottom of bottle to make lantern section 3 ½" (8.9 cm) tall.

6 On colorful paper, trace bottom of cup’s lid. Cut circle out, and cut a slit to circle’s center.

7 (a) Wrap cut ends of circle around each other to form cone-shaped roof. Secure with glue. It should be large enough to cover top (smaller end) of lantern. (b) Tightly roll a stamp-sized paper and secure end with glue for lightning rod. Glue rod to tip of roof. Glue roof to lantern’s top.

8 Cut out black or colorful paper shapes for windows, doors, and guardrails. Glue to tower and lantern.

9 Glue bottom of tower to top of cup’s lid. Glue bottom of lid to bottom of plate and let dry. Glue nature items around plate.

10 Place battery-powered candle on top of tower. Fit lantern on tower’s top and watch your lighthouse shine! [Page 10]

FEAST OF FRIENDSHIP

‘Abdu’l-Bahá showered people with kindness and hospitality. For one holy day celebration, he started at dawn to prepare food for over 200 guests! As he kneaded dough, he cheerfully encouraged his helpers. When the guests arrived, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá assisted with serving platters of rice, lamb, and fruit. He also offered words of love, saying, “If one of you has been wounded in heart by the words or deeds of another, during the past year, forgive him now; that... you may feast in happiness, and arise, renewed in spirit."*

We're all learning how to build unity together, and we'll make mistakes along the way. But like ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, if we act with sincerity and love, we can open the door to true friendship.

EXPLORE THESE WAYS TO BUILD STRONGER FRIENDSHIPS.

CATERPILLAR RACE

Players: 8-16 | Time: 15 minutes

Give each player a hula hoop. Split into groups of 4-6. Teams line hoops in a row on ground with ends touching, forming a caterpillar. One person stands in each hoop.

To move forward, last player passes their hoop to front. Front player puts it on ground in front of them. All players move forward one hoop. Caterpillars race to finish line!

ART OF APOLOGY

TRY THESE STEPS WHEN SAYING YOU'RE SORRY!

When feelings are hurt, a sincere, respectful apology can be a first step to healing.

1) "I'm sorry for..." Say what you did that caused harm.

2) "It was wrong because..." Show that you understand why it was harmful.

3) "Next time, I'll..." Share what you'll do differently in the future.

4) "Will you forgive me?" If they need more time, ask to talk later.

BEST GUESS

Players: 4-10 | Time: 15 minutes | Can be virtual

Players secretly write and give leader a word related to a theme, such as justice or race unity. If playing virtually, send words in private message.

Leader gives first player a word. First player describes word to group without saying any part of it. Players have one minute to guess it. First person to guess correctly shares a memory inspired by that word. They get a word to describe in the next round. Continue until one player makes three correct guesses.

SPEED QUOTES

Players: 8-16 | Time: 15 minutes

Put quotes about unity and friendship on slips of paper and place in center of room. Everyone picks a quote and a partner. Each player quickly shares their quote and what it means to them.

After a minute, players switch partners and quotes. Continue for 15 minutes, then share your favorite learnings with the group.

"LET YOUR HEART BURN WITH LOVING KINDNESS FOR ALL...

• This quote from a person's memories may not be ‘Abdu’l-Bahá's exact words.

[Page 11]

EXPLORE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AND ITS CREATURES

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

WE ARE ONE

OUR CONNECTIONS

Radar (which stands for RAdio Detection And Ranging) was invented in the early 1900s. It’s used to figure out the distance and speed of objects by bouncing radio waves off them and timing how long it takes the waves to come back. Large spheres called radomes often surround radar antennas for protection. Radar can detect rain, airplanes, spacecraft, ships, and even birds. Many lives are saved by weather radar, which helps forecasters track storms.

EARTH-SAVING TIP

Birds and Butterflies

Kids and adults around the world can help scientists track migrating species, like monarch butterflies and hawks. Check out projects like budburst.org or journeynorth.org.

WOW, REALLY?

Bar-headed geese have the highest migration of any animal. They fly in the thin, freezing air over the Himalayan mountains!

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

Dr. Deanna Hence is an atmospheric scientist and professor in Illinois. She studies hazardous weather and its impact on things like transportation, food supply, and health. She promotes diversity and inclusion in science, inviting many approaches to solving problems. She says, “My passion in science has always been driven by helping people.”

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

Victoria Falls is one of the world’s largest waterfalls, spanning the Zambezi River. Humanity has lived in the area for two million years, and from its African birthplace migrated all over the world. Unscramble the letters to find the falls’ two countries:

BAIZAM and WEBIBZAM

◯◯◯◯◯◯ ◯◯◯◯◯◯◯◯

AMAZING ANIMALS

These birds are world travelers, with the longest migration route of any animal. Their 50,000-mile (80,500 km) journey from Arctic nesting grounds to Antarctica gives them summer weather all year. Fill in the blanks to find their name:

AR◯ TI◯ T◯RNS [Page 12]

Maya’s Mysteries

“Every created thing is a sign of the revelation of God.” —Bahá’u’lláh

WHEN I’M OUT IN NATURE, I LOVE TO LOOK FOR VIRTUES IN THE WOODS, LAKES, AND MOUNTAINS.

YOU CAN TRY IT BY PLAYING MY BINGO GAME. HAPPY SEARCHING!

NATURE’S VIRTUES

My junior youth group is learning about ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. He was the son of Bahá’u’lláh, the Founder of the Bahá’í Faith. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá loved nature and gardens. In his talks and letters, he said our human family is like flowers in a garden. Just like a garden looks awesome with lots of different flowers, diverse people make the world beautiful.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá said all nature expresses spiritual qualities. It’s so cool that everything God created, from ants to zinnias, can teach us something.

NATURE VIRTUES BINGO: Go on a nature walk and write down items you find that express virtues. How fast can you or your friends fill in five boxes going across, down, or diagonally?

AWE Something amazing	CURIOUS Creature looking around	FRIENDLY Looks like it’s smiling	JOY A cheerful sight	PEACE A calming creature
HUMOR Makes me smile or laugh	DETERMINED Growing in an unusual way	GENTLE Soft, smooth texture	LISTENING Alert, still creature	REVERENCE Makes me feel spiritual
BOLD Bright orange or red	ENTHUSIASM Fast or busy creature	COOL DISCOVERY (Draw Here)	LOVE Creatures close together	STRENGTH Something sturdy
COOPERATE Creatures helping each other	SERENITY Brings me peace	GROWTH A bud, blossom, or shoot	MODESTY Something very tiny	UNIQUE Something that stands out
CREATIVE Interesting pattern	FLEXIBLE Something that bends	HOPE Life or color in a dark place	ORGANIZED Arranged neatly or in a row	UNITY Group of things close together

[Page 13]

Connected Creatures

Heat waves, wildfires, droughts, extreme storms—around the world, we face these and other crises because of climate change. When humans pollute the environment, all life on Earth is threatened, because we’re all connected. Crops, water, and animals’ habitats get damaged. People may lose their health, homes, or jobs, especially in lower-income areas. Because of racism, these losses impact people of color the most.

We can help by working for environmental justice. That means being fair to all people, no matter what their skin color, background, or income, and treating animals with respect. It’s listening to problem-solving ideas from folks most affected by climate change. When everyone has a voice in protecting Earth, we can make it safe for all humans and creatures.

At the seashore, fill in the blanks to complete the friends’ tips on environmental justice.

1 E_PAT_ETI_ ELEPHANT: FIND AN ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEM IN YOUR AREA AND H_LP SOLVE IT.

2 O_EN-MIN_E_ ORANGUTAN: HAVE A FAMILY MEETING TO FIND FIVE WAYS TO SAVE E_E_GY AT HOME.

3 RES_ONSI_LE RHINOCEROS: JOIN A CLUB THAT DOES _ERVI_E FOR EARTH, FROM SOCIAL JUSTICE TO GARDENING.

4 _I_E WALLABY: LEARN HOW TO AID ANIMALS AND THEIR _ABI_A_S IN YOUR AREA.

5 _RA_ER_UL PANDA: PLAN A NEIGHBORHOOD GATHERING TO SHARE Q_OTE_ AND SACRED WRITINGS ON NATURE.

6 P_SI_IVE PENGUIN: ASK A _IB_A_IAN TO SUGGEST A BOOK ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE.

7 MOTI_ATE_ MANATEE: INVITE FRIENDS TO HELP CR_AT_ A VIDEO, MURAL, OR SONG ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE.

8 S_LF-DISCI_LIN_D SEA TURTLE: USE RE_SAB_E WATER BOTTLES AND FOOD CONTAINERS FOR SCHOOL AND TRIPS. [Page 14]

LIGHTNING & LUNA

PHANTOM ISLAND

1. 88

BAXTER AND BRIDGET

AT FAUNA’S HQ . . .

FAUNA! THE SUB HAS BEEN ATTACKED!

WHAT? DID THE ROCKETS LAUNCH?

NO! THE UPLIFTERS STOPPED US.

IN THE ATLANTIC . . .

KA-BOOOOMMM!

INTERFERING UPLIFTERS! THEY HAVE NO IDEA WHO THEY’RE MESSING WITH!

AT LEAST THEY SAVED THE CREW.

YEAH . . . GREAT. LUCKILY, THAT CREW CAN’T LEAD THEM TO MY SECRET ISLAND!

ON THE HARMONI . . .

THIS MAN WAS IN CHARGE OF THE SUB, CAPTAIN. BUT HE’S STRANGELY QUIET.

YEAH, ERASERS USUALLY GO ON AND ON ABOUT THEIR BIG PLANS.

WHO DO YOU WORK FOR?

I DON’T KNOW. I GET ORDERS. I GET PAID.

WELL, YOU ARE TELLING THE TRUTH.

IF THE ERASER WASN’T ON THE SUB, WHERE ARE THEY?

THE EMERGENCY BROADCAST SYSTEM GETS HACKED . . .

NOW HEAR THIS! NORTH AMERICA IS NO LONGER FOR PEOPLE.

IT’S A NEW WILD WORLD! YOU’RE DONE WRECKING THE EARTH!

GET OUT NOW IF YOU CAN! HAHAHAHA! [Page 15]IT SOUNDED LIKE A VOICE CHANGER. COULD YOU DETECT THE REAL VOICE, LUNA?

IT SOUNDED LIKE... UH... FAUNA FROM WILD WORLD!

YOU MEAN THE CONSERVATIONIST?

SHE CAN’T BE AN ERASER!

IN THE TRACKING ROOM...

MAYBE THERE’S A CLUE IN FAUNA’S SHOW.

ERASERS ARE DEVIOUS, BUT SHE SAVES ANIMALS.

I TRUST LUNA’S POWERS.

LOOK! THAT TURTLE USED TO HAVE A TRACKING DEVICE.

THIS IS THE ATLANTIC ANIMAL-TRACKING DATABASE.

LOOKS LIKE THE TRACKERS ALL STOP WORKING RIGHT THERE.

RIGHT—BUT THERE’S NO LAND.

IN THE OLD DAYS, SEA CAPTAINS MARKED ISLANDS THAT LATER EXPLORERS COULDN’T FIND. THEY WERE CALLED PHANTOM ISLANDS.

THIS IS WHERE THE TRACKERS STOP.

LOOK—THERE’S AN ISLAND!

BUT IT’S NOT ON MODERN MAPS...

WE’LL HEAD THERE AT FULL SPEED.

WHAT COULD FAUNA BE PLANNING THAT WOULD DESTROY NORTH AMERICA?

GOOD QUESTION.

ON FAUNA’S SECRET ISLAND...

FINALLY! IT’S ALMOST READY.

THIS WILL BE THE MOST DESTRUCTIVE HURRICANE EVER! THE UPLIFTERS WILL NEVER STOP ME! [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?

Muji Vader

Age: 13

I live in: Massachusetts, U.S.

I want to be: Actor

This career interests me because: You get to work with different people and cultures around the world.

Virtue I admire most: Excitement

Hobbies or sports: Basketball, track and field, soccer

Favorite Bahá’í activity: Junior youth groups

A hero or role model: My parents and [pro basketball player] Stephen Curry

I like to help people by: Teaching them new things

Favorite animal or pet: I love all animals.

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: I would give everyone the same rights, such as equal pay.

A language I’d like to learn: Sign language, because there are a lot of people who are deaf, so the more people who sign, the better

My wish for our human family around the world: I wish that everyone can live together in peace, without racism.

Shomeys Ghaderi

Age: 13

I live in: Utah, U.S.

I want to be: I’d like a career in science.

This career interests me because: I have always loved science, and being introduced to biology furthered my love . . .

Virtue I admire most: Honesty

A favorite food: Basically, any Persian food my mom makes

Favorite Bahá’í activity: Junior youth [group]. I love being with others my age.

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: [I’d] teach children to have love and compassion for each other so they learn at a young age to do what’s right.

A language I’d like to learn: Spanish, as it is one of the most spoken languages in the world, and communication is very important

My wish for our human family around the world: For all races to be seen as equals by each other. With the Black Lives Matter campaign . . . I learned just how big the racial divide still is, and it’s very upsetting . . .

Chadman Naimi

Age: 12

I live in: Reykjavik, Iceland

I want to be: An astronaut

This career interests me because: I am fascinated by space and I want to solve all the mysteries in space that humans have still not figured out.

Virtue I admire most: Honesty

Hobbies or sports: Playing the piano and tennis

A hero or role model: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Favorite Bahá’í activity: I love 19-day Feast,* as it allows us to gather and have interesting conversations.

It’s important to have friends from different cultures: To learn how to cooperate with people from different races and backgrounds . . .

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: I would treat everyone equal, everybody would get the same rights, and no one would be deprived of education.

My wish for our human family around the world: That there will be less prejudice and hypocrisy amongst all nations and that world peace will be established

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

[Page 17]

Quincy Loghmanee

Age: 11

I live in: Illinois, U.S.

I want to be: An architect

This career interests me because: I like drawing and designing machines and buildings.

Virtue I admire most: Determination

Favorite Bahá’í activity: Organizing games for the social portion of Feast

Place I’d love to visit: The Shrine of the Báb [in Haifa, Israel], because the mountain seems to be a really beautiful place

A favorite food: Sushi!

I like to help people by: Doing the dishes at home, cleaning up, helping my sisters by playing with them

A hero or role model: My mom, and that’s actually true!

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: I would help people not be suspicious of others by sharing the teachings of God, especially the one that says no matter what race you are, we are all part of one mankind . . .

My wish for our human family around the world: To get along and be able to end things like global warming and prejudice

Vera Shafizadeh

Age: 9

I live in: California, U.S.

I want to be: An author

This career interests me because: I love to write and read, and I also have started a couple books of my own.

Virtue I admire most: Honesty

Favorite Bahá’í activity: The Grand Canyon Bahá’í Conference in Arizona

Place I’d love to visit: Tokyo, Japan

A hero or role model: My mom, dad, and brother

It’s important to have friends from different cultures: It’s nice and joyful to have a diverse group of friends.

Something cool I learned about another culture: Each symbol you write in Mandarin Chinese stands for a whole word.

A language I’d like to learn: Farsi. My best friend, my grandparents, and my dad speak it. I would like to understand them.

My wish for our human family around the world: To not be treated unkindly (anywhere, of course) because of your race or background

“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

Setiyana Solomon

Age: 13

I live in: Minnesota, U.S.

I want to be: A singer or music therapist

This career interests me because: I love music and helping people.

Virtue I admire most: Loyalty

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Junior youth group and Feast

A hero or role model: My mom and dad

Place I’d love to visit: Japan

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: I would do speeches about how . . . prejudice should be removed from our hearts [and about] my experiences with racism and why it shouldn’t be practiced or taught.

I’d like to learn about: The Japanese culture because I think that their culture should be appreciated, and I really want to go there

A language I’d like to learn: Either Spanish or French, because Spanish is spoken a lot where I live, and French is spoken a lot in Africa (which is where almost all of my family lives), and it sounds cool

My wish for our human family around the world: To be united and see past our differences, and learn about and love each other

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). [Page 18]

Maya Marston

Age: 13 I live in: Washington, U.S. I want to be: Writer This career interests me because: I love to creatively explore other worlds. Virtue I admire most: Kindness and humor Hobbies or sports: Petting poodles, writing, drawing, and soccer Favorite Bahá’í activities: Junior youth group, Sheltering Branch Bahá’í School A hero or role model: Miss Shoemaker, my first-grade teacher I like to help people by: Being aware of how people are feeling and cheering them up if they need it

It’s important to have friends from different cultures because: It helps to learn more about the world and build unity.

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: I would have a reward system for people who act with kindness and unity. They would get a giant stash of candy.

Something cool I learned about another culture: How to speak some sentences in French!

Juliet Katirai

Age: 10 I live in: Ontario, Canada I want to be: Computer scientist or chef This career interests me because: I love cooking, and my dad is a computer scientist. Virtue I admire most: Kindness Hobbies or sports: Baking, horseback riding A favorite food: Macaroons Favorite Bahá’í activities: Service projects like visiting the senior home during Ayyám-i-Há* I’d like to learn about: Nigeria. I find their food very interesting and I’d like to try it.

It’s important to have friends from different cultures because: It would be boring if we were all the same.

A hero or role model: My mom

A language I’d like to learn: French—it is one of the official languages in Canada, where I live.

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: [I would] enforce laws to make [things] equal for everyone, no matter their race.

Zayn Omara

Age: 8 I live in: California, U.S. I want to be: Mechanical engineer This career interests me because: I would like to build new cars that people can buy with less money than they [spend] now. Virtue I admire most: Love Hobbies or sports: Reading, playing soccer

A hero or role model: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

A favorite song: “Don’t Give Up On Me” by Andy Grammer

A favorite food: Pasta

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Attending 19-day Feast, attending children’s classes, and going to the Grand Canyon Bahá’í Conference

I like to help people by: Showing kindness

If I were a world leader, to stop prejudice and racism: [I’d] say prayers and teach people about Bahá’u’lláh

I’d like to visit: Tanzania, to learn about what food they eat, what languages they speak, and visit Mount Kilimanjaro

Nilufar Missaghi

Age: 8 I live in: Minnesota, U.S. I want to be: Gymnast This career interests me because: I love gymnastics. Virtue I admire most: Kindness Hobbies or sports: Soccer, reading, art Favorite Bahá’í activity: Children’s class Favorite animal: Shark Place I’d love to visit: Paris, France A favorite book: The Princess in Black [series by Dean Hale and Shannon Hale] I like to help people by: [Raking] leaves in the fall for my family

A favorite food: Navajo tacos

A hero or role model: [Gymnast] Simone Biles

Something cool I learned about another culture: The [clothing] that Native American people wear during a Pow Wow

I’d like to learn about: Iran, because that’s where my family is from and I’ve never visited

My wish for our human family around the world: That everyone would be treated equally

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

18 Brilliant Star ★ VOL. 51 NO. 3 [Page 19]

A Remarkable Marriage

When Louis Gregory met ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Egypt in 1911, he immediately fell to his knees. Louis loved and admired the leader of the Bahá’í Faith and had come from Washington, D.C., to see him. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá welcomed him kindly and said, “I am happy to have you here.” Louis wrote, “I never felt more peaceful or composed.”

During this visit, Louis also met a British woman who would change his life: Louise Mathew. Like him, Louise had been a Bahá’í for less than two years.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá asked Louis about U.S. race relations, and Louis said they were hostile. At that time, Black and white people often had separate schools, hotels, buses, and even drinking fountains. Some Bahá’ís supported segregated meetings, but ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said Bahá’í events should be open to all.

“In the present antagonism there is great danger to both races,” he told Louis. “If you have any influence to get the races to intermarry, it will be very valuable.”

This view was controversial—even among Bahá’ís. Interracial marriage was illegal in 29 U.S. states! Some people even said it was biologically harmful. In the South, a Black man could face violence or death for being with a white woman.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá continued to promote interracial marriage when he visited North America in 1912. Louis and Louise attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the Bahá’í Temple near Chicago.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá asked Louise, “How are you and Mr. Gregory getting along?”

Startled, she asked, “What do you mean? We are good friends.”

He smiled and said emphatically, “You must be very good friends.”

Another time, he suggested she give Louis a white flower. Afterward, Louise said, “Love began to grow in my heart and the desire for the marriage.”

Louise asked ‘Abdu’l-Bahá if he wished her and Louis to marry. He said yes and asked, “Do you love him, would you marry him if he asked you?”

Louise said, “Yes.”

He told her, “If he loves you he will ask you.”

As Louis and Louise grew closer, they knew their union would cause a sensation in some places. Louis often traveled in the South to give Bahá’í talks, but Louise couldn’t accompany him. They would need courage, determination, and strong love.

On September 27, 1912, they were quietly married in New York City. It was the first marriage between a Black and white Bahá’í.

Despite challenges and long separations, Louis and Louise were happy together for 38 years. Louis called her “my angel wife” and “a tower of strength.” Louise referred to him as her “precious darling.” In later years, they lived in a cottage at Green Acre Bahá’í School and felt accepted in the small town of Eliot, Maine.

Through their marriage, Louis and Louise provided a shining example, as envisioned by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá when he wrote to them, “I beg of God that through you, good fellowship may be obtained” between the white and Black races, “for you are the introduction to this accomplishment . . .”

The Gregorys had an Episcopal wedding ceremony in 1912, then exchanged the Bahá’í marriage vows.

Some quotes are from the Gregorys’ memories and may not be ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s exact words. [Page 20]

Reach Out with Respect

By Andrea Hope

Imagine that your teacher asks everyone in class to present a special item from their family. Your friend, Winona, brings in a large feather headdress decorated with beads and ribbons. Winona is from the Dakota tribe of the midwestern U.S., and the headdress was worn by her great-grandfather. It was given to him for his bravery in service to his tribe. When Winona needs courage, she thinks of the headdress and her great-grandfather’s example.

Kids at school talk about the headdress. Some think it’s cool, but some say it looks funny. Winona seems annoyed, so you whisper, “The headdress is awesome. Just ignore them.”

The next day, a classmate shows up wearing a fake paper headdress. He jokes that he’s the “chief” of class, and others laugh. Winona runs out of the room. A symbol of courage and honor for her family is just a joke for them.

You tell your classmate that what he did was not cool, and in fact, it was disrespectful. You go with Winona to talk to your teacher about it.

This story shows an example of cultural appropriation. It’s when a symbol or tradition of one culture is used by someone from another culture without respect or understanding. This is even more harmful when the culture it’s borrowed from has been treated unjustly. When a student dresses like a Muslim imam in a program about world religions, this can be inspiring.

But when a person makes a costume out of a Muslim person’s robe to be silly or get attention, this is harmful.

Cultural appropriation also happens when we separate people from their culture. When a director creates a movie about Egypt and chooses not to hire people from that country as writers, actors, or producers, this is hurtful. It doesn’t show respect toward people of that culture.

True Appreciation

If we don’t want to hurt others with cultural appropriation, can we still enjoy parts of another culture? Sure! Cultural appreciation is the key. If you want to make ramen from Japan, ask a Japanese friend to teach you, or watch videos by a Japanese chef. If you’re celebrating a holiday from a cultural or religious group, learn about its history.

Many times, it can be hard to know if what you want to do is respectful. That’s a great thing about having friends from different cultures. You can consult with them about your questions. Not everyone will have the same opinion or knowledge, but you can listen and learn. When you appreciate people of all cultures, you can make more friends and have a lot more fun!

Here are some ideas for honoring diversity

What cultures fascinate you? Read books about them by knowledgeable people from those cultures or other trusted authors.

Learn about the Indigenous people of your country. What are some of their customs?

Ask elders about your family’s culture. What traditions are important to them?

Celebrating another group’s holiday? Find out its real history and how it’s observed in that culture or religion.

Watch out for stereotypes of people in TV shows and movies. Talk with family and friends about why they’re harmful and how they could be changed.

Read more from Andrea at www.brilliantstarmagazine.org/articles/more-than-two-colors

Graphics: Alexmumu, osker 14 [Page 21]

Thoughtful Transformations

Here’s a cool trick: you can help change the world by paying attention to your thoughts and habits. We all have prejudices, and eliminating them is a skill that takes practice, like skateboarding.

Skaters transform their abilities by focusing on each new move. They think about how it went and how they can improve. With perseverance, they can learn amazing grinds, grabs, and flip tricks!

You can use the same technique with prejudiced ideas. When you reflect on your thoughts about someone, ask if they’re fair. Does your thought match the facts? How would it feel to be the other person? What’s another way to think about them?

Kicking prejudice takes time and determination. But when we stick with it, we can leap to new heights of justice and unity.

Practice transformation by matching each prejudiced thought to a welcoming one that can replace it.

1 FOREIGN KIDS—AS IF WE’D HAVE ANYTHING IN COMMON.	A MAYBE I CAN LEARN SOME WORDS IN THEIR LANGUAGE.
2 IT’S SUMMER. WHY IS SHE WEARING A HEAD SCARF?	B I HOPE THEY SKATE OVER HERE SO WE CAN MEET THEM.
3 THEY AREN’T SPEAKING ENGLISH. HOW CAN WE EVEN TALK?	C WE ALL LIKE SKATING. MAYBE WE’LL BE FRIENDS.
4 EVERYBODY KNOWS GIRLS ARE BAD SKATEBOARDERS.	D HIS BOARD LOOKS LIKE IT GETS A LOT OF USE. HE MUST PRACTICE EVERY DAY!
5 WHY DID THEY MOVE TO AMERICA? WHY DIDN’T THEY STAY IN THEIR COUNTRY?	E THOSE SHIRTS HAVE AMAZING COLORS!
6 THAT SKATEBOARD IS SO OLD. CAN’T HE BUY A NEW ONE?	F SHE SKATES IN HER HIJAB—HOW COOL!
7 I HOPE THEY STAY AWAY FROM OUR SIDE OF THE PARK.	G IT’S FUN TO SEE MORE GIRLS SKATING.
8 CAN’T THEY WEAR NORMAL CLOTHES?	H HOW CAN I HELP THE NEW KIDS FEEL WELCOME AT SCHOOL?
9 THOSE KIDS WILL NEVER FIT IN AT SCHOOL.	I MAYBE THEY HAVE DIFFERENT TRICKS THEY CAN TEACH US FROM THEIR COUNTRY.

[Page 22]

STARGAZER: Deltin Sejour

When Deltin Sejour started krumping at about age 13, he didn't know it would change his life-but it did. Krump is a fast-paced, expressive type of hip-hop dance. Growing up in the Bahamas, Deltin and some friends tried it as a fun new challenge. Deltin was determined to improve his skills, so he took classes at a local dance academy. He fell in love with dance, learned new styles, and developed his abilities throughout high school.

Deltin moved to Canada to study at the School of Toronto Dance Theatre and George Brown College in 2014. He enjoys diverse dance styles, but krump is still his favorite, because of his early experiences and the emotional release it provides.

Deltin dances, acts, and teaches dance and yoga in Toronto. He also includes dance activities when he works with Bahá’í children's classes and junior youth groups. In both his career and service, Deltin celebrates the power of dance to express spiritual truth and bring people together.

As a junior youth, Deltin enjoyed adventures in nature and martial arts. His focus shifted when he learned a hip-hop dance style called krump.

Q: What's your favorite childhood memory?

A: It's sort of a collection of memories about exploring my tropical environment. Playing in the bushes ... going to the beach to get the grapes that only grow alongside the ocean... I've realized how precious that is to me now because I live in the city, which isn't so green, and it isn't so free.

Q: What do you appreciate most about being Haitian and Bahamian?

A: Well, both cultures are very expressive, and they... love the experience of life. This is something I didn't realize until moving to North America. I find people here are a little bit more expressive when it's negative.

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

A: The hardest thing was around 12 years old, [when] one of my close family friends was kidnapped and died... So coming to terms with that was hard. He was a boy I used to play cards with and things like that. So there was a lot of fear and uncertainty for several years... [Going] from being in a place where there was total freedom to now you couldn't go anywhere without a buddy was really challenging. Everyone was on red alert. What helped was really just books and imagination... It was also helpful to know that everyone in the community was looking out for me and feel like everyone was invested in my safety.

Self-portrait by Deltin Sejour, beach by Denis Tangney Jr/Getty, art by C. Aaron Kreader [Page 23]

Questions and Answers with an Inspirational Bahá’í

Top: Practicing yoga and dance keeps Deltin super flexible, as he demonstrates in this “grand jeté” (splits in mid-air).

Bottom: Deltin performs various dance styles, including Afro-Caribbean, modern, ballet, and jazz. This type of leap, in which both legs are bent, is called “double attitude.”

Q: What do you love most about dancing and teaching yoga?

A: It’s honest. There’s a lot of things about the way that we are in the world right now that aren’t really honest or pure, and being able to dance and perform is an honest expression of who I am and how I feel at the moment . . . And the same way about yoga . . . It’s just me and the movement—and me sharing that movement with others.

Q: What advice would you give a kid about a career in the arts?

A: Practice your art form . . . try different kinds of art and see which one you connect with most. Really focus on that [and] on your grades in school. Make sure your pursuit of the art isn’t a pursuit for glory or fame, but an actual, genuine love for that art and wanting to advance it and . . . share it . . . And be open to living a dynamic life that includes being an artist and maybe an accountant. You don’t have to be one thing in the world.

Q: This issue of Brilliant Star is about world citizenship and race unity. What’s important for kids to know about prejudice and racism?

A: That prejudice and racism . . . can sometimes be a small thing in the way we interact . . . Are we letting the people around us feel welcomed and respected, or [are they] being treated like “others” and like they don’t belong? Whether [they’re] from a different race, country, or gender . . . it’s the small things that matter . . . [‘Abdu’l-Bahá said] “Let your heart burn with loving kindness for all who may cross your path.”

Q: How can the arts help to foster racial justice and unity?

A: They build understanding in a way that words can’t. And the more understanding we have of one another, the better it is for us to see one another as equal or as valued. It creates more respect and appreciation. Art informs the way that one sees the world . . . it allows you to open doors in your imagination . . . You become a less rigid individual, and you’re open to new ideas and perspectives . . . Dancing, acting, music—they are the playground for that kind of thinking and that way of being.

Q: What’s your wish for Brilliant Star’'s readers?

A: To not be bound by the rules and ideas about the world that we live in now, [to know] that they have the power to positively contribute to a better future if they are willing to put in the effort and commit time. If they have the inspiration to, they can change the world and themselves. [Page 24]

RILEY’S RAINFOREST

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

KEEP AN OPEN MIND!

Are Brains Biased?

New neighbors moved into our canopy today—a family of scarlet macaws. When my parents wanted to go say hello, I was nervous. I met a scarlet macaw once, and they were not friendly. Would this family act the same way?

I told my parents how I felt, and they said I have unconscious bias. I had no idea what that is! But it’s when you have a prejudice and aren’t aware of it. I was shocked when I heard this.

For example, if a cat scratches you, your brain might tell you all cats are dangerous. But that’s not true! Our brains do this in order to sort information and learn quickly. But if your brain creates a bias against someone from another race or culture, you might treat them unfairly.

Could I be prejudiced against scarlet macaws? I felt guilty. But my parents said everyone has unconscious biases—and we don’t even realize it! It makes changing biases really challenging.

If we have an opinion about people from a certain group, we have to dig deep and ask ourselves why we feel that way. I realized it’s unfair to assume that all scarlet macaws are unkind. Everyone is unique, no matter their background.

So I decided to go welcome our new neighbors with a basket of fruit. And guess what? They were super fun and friendly! They invited us to a housewarming party next week. I can’t wait!

Ending biases can be tough. Try my ideas to avoid stereotypes and keep an open mind.

Curiosity Canopy

Did you know? Friendship with people in different racial groups can reduce prejudice. The effects can be contagious—when people see positive friendships across races, they’re more willing to reach out and make similar connections themselves!

Explore & Soar: Push Past Stereotypes

Try these tips to eliminate biases and welcome diversity.

• If you have an opinion about a race or culture, question it. Is it based on your personal experience? Is it fair? Or is it a stereotype—an unfair assumption?
• Make friends from different races and cultures. Explore what you have in common.
• Learn about heroes and leaders from diverse cultures.
• Watch how different races and cultures are portrayed in the media. Are the examples realistic and positive?
• Speak up or tell an adult if you hear a racist joke or comment.
• Talk with your family and friends about racism and racial justice.
• Create a collage of images that break racial, gender, and cultural stereotypes.

[Page 25]

See Clearly

“Shut your eyes to estrangement, then fix your gaze upon unity.” —Bahá’u’lláh

When you explore new places, you want to see everything! But even if you have great vision, we all have blind spots. They’re small parts of the eye with no light-detecting cells. If an image falls in that area, it disappears! We don’t usually notice it because our brains fill in the missing information.

Just like blind spots in our eyes, we can have mental blind spots, too. Sometimes we may not see injustice or racism if we haven’t experienced it ourselves. Other times, our own prejudices stop us from seeing people as they really are.

But we can learn to see more clearly. When we open our eyes to people with different experiences, they give us a wider lens to look through. And if we peer past our biases and look with love, we can spy each person’s awesome strengths shining through. Then we can see the best in everyone!

These friends are preparing for an outdoor adventure. Find the 20 items that help them see more clearly.

“If one truly loves nature, one finds beauty everywhere.” —Vincent Van Gogh [Page 26]

SHINING LAMP

A Bahá’í who served humanity with radiance

Coralie Franklin Cook (1861–1942)

When Coralie Franklin Cook was born in Virginia in 1861, slavery was still legal in the U.S. Her ancestors had been enslaved by Thomas Jefferson, the nation’s third president, and her parents were born into slavery. She deeply understood the devastating impact of racism. She became a gifted writer and public speaker and used her incredible talents to work for racial justice.

Devoted to Learning

Coralie believed strongly in the power of education. She graduated from Storer College in West Virginia in 1880, then taught English and speech there. In 1898, she married George William Cook, a dean and professor at Howard University in Washington, D.C. Coralie joined the Howard faculty and became the Chair of Oratory. They had one son, George Jr.

Howard was one of only a few universities that welcomed Black students. The Cooks helped make it a place where people of color and their ideas could grow. Coralie focused on empowering female students and providing positive role models.

Coralie’s passion for education led to her role as the second Black woman to serve on the Washington, D.C., Board of Education. She also helped found the National Association of Colored Women, where she advocated for women’s right to vote and fair opportunities for all African Americans. She gave dynamic speeches about gender and racial equality.

Coralie and George learned about the Bahá’í Faith, and they soon began hosting Bahá’í meetings on campus. When ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the leader of the Faith, spoke at Howard University in 1912, the Cooks helped to organize the event.

Coralie became a Bahá’í the following year, and her husband enthusiastically supported her faith. Her dedication to racial justice continued. She participated in race amity conferences, wrote articles, and spoke publicly, encouraging Bahá’ís to be champions of equality. When she visited Green Acre Bahá’í School in Maine, U.S., she was inspired by the love she witnessed there. She wrote, “The dominant note was spiritual love and unity manifested in real fellowship.”

Champion of Justice

But racial segregation caused tremendous harm throughout the U.S.—even in Bahá’í communities. Despite ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s clear guidance and example of unity, some Bahá’ís wanted separate meetings for the different races. Coralie was deeply concerned about this. She firmly believed that the Bahá’í teachings were the answer to healing racism.

In 1914, Coralie wrote to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and described the crisis of racism in America. She wrote, “Race relationship . . . is in a deplorable condition.” She noted that many churches had closed their doors to Black people, and she called on her fellow Bahá’ís to support integration and “stand by the teachings though it requires superhuman courage . . .”

Coralie persevered in her work for justice until her passing in 1942 at age 80. She once said, “I must in word and deed teach the Oneness of Humanity.” Using her powerful public speaking and leadership skills, she fulfilled her goal. She shared the Bahá’í teachings of unity widely and inspired many to join her in creating lasting change. [Page 27]

Unity at Green Acre

“I want you to be happy in Green Acre, to laugh, smile and rejoice . . .” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Round the world, many people are working to heal racism. The staff at Green Acre Bahá’í School in Maine, U.S., invited local police officers to get together with them. They enjoyed a barbecue and even had a barbecue contest. Families at the school joined in, playing games and having fun. Trusting friendships began.

Later, the officers returned to Green Acre to study and reflect on the nobility of all people. Chief of Police Elliott Moya said, “We looked at it through the lens of the Bahá’í teachings, and the topic morphed into topics of race. The officers found themselves in a safe space where they could ask questions.” This led to open dialogue and learning.

At the same spot, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá gave talks about unity over 100 years ago. He visited people’s homes, shared prayers, and hosted a Bahá’í Feast.* The friendships with police officers today reflect his vision for Green Acre as “a great center, the cause of the unity of the world of humanity, the cause of uniting hearts . . .”

At this Green Acre community event, find nine items named for virtues that foster friendship.

• SHIELD OF SERVICE
• COURAGEOUS CLIPBOARD
• UKULELE OF UNITY
• FLAG OF FRIENDSHIP
• FORGIVING FLOWERS
• GRATEFUL GIFT
• RESILIENT RACKET
• RESPECTFUL RIBBON
• SUPPORTIVE SOCCER BALL

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

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 [Page 28]

COSMO’S CORNER

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

WHAT ARE THE BEST DRINKS TO SHARE WITH FRIENDS?

UNI-TEA AND DIVERSI-TEA!

ACROSS

2. At Green Acre Bahá’í School, staff and police officers studied the __________ of all people. (p. 27)

5. Shomeys, Chadman, and Vera all admire the virtue of __________. (pp. 16–17)

8. __________ can help us connect with people from around the world. (p. 2)

9. When you reflect on your thoughts about someone, ask if they’re __________. (p. 21)

10. Eliminating prejudices is a __________ that takes practice, like skateboarding. (p. 21)

11. Unconscious bias is when you have a prejudice and aren’t __________ of it. (p. 24)

13. Mochi is a soft cake made from __________. (p. 2)

15. When we want to enjoy parts of another culture, cultural __________ is the key. (p. 20)

16. When we see __________ from space, there are no borders between countries. (p. 29)

DOWN

1. A lighthouse can remind us that __________ is like a powerful light. (p. 8)

3. Coralie Franklin Cook said, “I must in word and deed teach the __________ of Humanity.” (p. 26)

4. Muji, Maya, Zayn, and Nilufar all like to play __________. (pp. 16–18)

6. Environmental __________ means treating people and animals with fairness and respect. (p. 13)

7. Deltin Sejour says the __________ build understanding in a way that words can’t. (p. 23)

8. One kind deed can make a world of __________. (p. 29)

12. More than 20 countries in __________ are creating a Great Green Wall. (p. 5)

14. __________ is a fast-paced, expressive type of hip-hop dance. (p. 22)

FROM OUR MAILBOX

“Even though people like Martin Luther King Jr., Abraham Lincoln, and others helped, racial justice is still a big problem in the world today. And if you look closely, you might be able to find the tiniest inequalities even in the school classroom. [To help, kids can] try to look at people and judge them by the way they act, and not think one way about one entire race.”

—Fazal Mato, age 13, Illinois, U.S.

ANSWERS

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

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

Page 5: Hope, healing, action, unity, sustainable, justice, conservation, cooperation, resilience, awareness, transformation

Page 11: Zambia and Zimbabwe, Arctic terns

Page 13: 1) Empathetic, help; Open-minded, energy; 3) Responsible, service; 4) Wise, habitats; 5) Prayerful, quotes; 6) Positive, librarian; 7) Motivated, create; 8) Self-disciplined, reusable

Page 21: A) 3, B) 7, C) 1, D) 6, E) 8, F) 2, G) 4, H) 9, I) 5

Page 25: Microscope at BL; telescope at C; binoculars at TL, BC; cameras at TL, C; phones at TC, TR, CL, C, BL, BC, BR; goggles at TR, CR; lens on chain at BR; sunglasses at TL, C; magnifying glasses at TC, BR

Page 27: Shield at C, clipboard at BR, ukulele at TR, flag at TL, flowers at CR, gift at CR, racket at C, ribbon at CL, ball at CL [Page 29]

ZEKE & RHOMBUS: LAUNCH PEACE

aMAZEing ADVENTURE

“The earth’s surface is one wide native land or home for all races of humankind.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Hey, Earthlings! It’s Zeke and Rhombus, from the planet Zilizag. We’re on a mission to find peace around the universe.

When we see planets from space, there are no borders between countries. Earth and other worlds are like shining gems among the stars. All living beings are connected, and they can choose to live in harmony.

Seeing everyone on your planet as one family can change how you think and act. On Earth, you might think it’s hard for one being to have an impact. But in every galaxy we visit, one kind deed can make a world of difference. Though Earth has different races and religions, Earthlings are also one human race. You can all get along, treat each other with respect, and create justice.

So close your eyes and imagine blasting off to a brilliant future. You have the power to help launch a new age of peace!

Find our path through space to Serenity Station!

START

SELFISH SATELLITE

ROCKS OF RACISM

COMET OF CONFLICT

WORLD OF WAR

SERENITY STATION

VOL. 51 NO. 3 ★ Brilliant Star 29 [Page 30]“Let us join together to hasten forward the Divine Cause of unity, until all humanity knows itself to be one family, joined together in love.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Brilliant Star

Join Together • VOL. 51 NO. 3

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

www.brilliantstarmagazine.org