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[Page i]Brilliant Star

A BAHÁ’Í COMPANION FOR YOUNG EXPLORERS   BRILLIANTSTARMAGAZINE.ORG   VOL. 53 NO. 2

Are You Building A Better World?

Tips for Tough Times

HOPE FOR OUR FUTURE

[Page ii]Brilliant Star BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER 1233 Central Street, Evanston, Illinois 60201 U.S. brilliant@usbnc.org brilliantstarmagazine.org Copyright 2024 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 Darcy Greenwood ASSISTANT EDITOR Foad Ghorbani PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Lisa Blecker ARTIST & WRITER Donna Price WRITER Dr. Stephen Scotti STEAMS EDUCATION ADVISOR*

MANY THANKS TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS: Ryleigh Rose Aghdasi Dr. Derek Alderman Kaiya Bathke Jeanna Clifford Susan Engle Jackson Erdman Kaya Erekul⚫ Cora Hays Nuri Himes David H. Johnson Augusto López-Claros Elowen Lyons-Baral Ronald McCoy Ollie McKinney • Naim Missaghi Leila Mostaghimi - Stephen Pulley Karmila Rodarte Mya Tambe Vargha Twaddell

FAVORITE FEATURES

Bahá’u’lláh’s Life: Mission of Peace He promised a future of world harmony.

Maya’s Mysteries Fun ways to enjoy nature with friends

Nur’s Nook Craft a hot-air balloon and soar with hope!

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

Lightning and Luna: Episode #97 Questions fly in the secret lab!

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

Stargazer: Dr. Augusto López-Claros He helps nations unite to solve global problems.

Riley’s Rainforest How much screen time is too much?

Shining Lamp: Dr. Ugo Giachery He helped build the Shrine of the Báb.

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

A-MAZE-ing ADVENTURE Find I your path through a super spaceship.

ART AND PHOTO CREDITS

Illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted By Foad Ghorbani: Art on p. 13 By Lisa Blecker: Photos on pp. 8-9 Historical photos courtesy National Bahá’í Archives, unless noted

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS

By Amy Renshaw: 2, 4, 11, 12, 13, 14, 19, 29 By Heidi Parsons: 1, 16, 19, 22, 25, 28 By Darcy Greenwood: 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 12, 24 By Lisa Blecker: 8, 27 By Donna Price: 3, 11, 14, 20, 27, 28

SUBSCRIPTION RATES AND RENEWALS

To subscribe, visit brilliantstarmagazine.org or contact Baha’i Subscriber Service: 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’is of the U.S. or by individual contributors. For permission to copy or translate, use form at brilliantstarmagazine.org/permission-request or write Brilliant Star, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 6020L 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.

• Learn more about STEAMS

[Page 1]

NEW DESTINATIONS

Flexible Felines Find cats that stay cool in a crisis.

Steer Your Ship Navigate through storms like ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

Wind in Your Sails Set goals and steer toward your dreams.

Waves of One Sea Color the creatures to soothe your spirit.

True Treasure Materialistic monsters meet positive pals.

Quiz: Are You Building a Brighter World? Explore skills for making a difference.

Winds of Tests Tips for bending when troubles blow

Space Ace A scientist answers your cosmic questions.

TEAM: Together Efforts Achieve Magic Write and draw about terrific teamwork.

Deep Discoveries How are oceans essential to life on Earth?

DEAR FRIENDS

When you imagine the future, what do you see? Is there world peace? Are we taking better care of people and our planet? Are you living your dream life? Are there flying cars?

Envisioning the future can be fun, but it's full of uncertainty too. From climate change to social injustice, our world faces a lot of challenges. How will we overcome them?

In this issue, discover how you can prepare for the future with optimism. Chart your goals and set sail for adventure. Quiz yourself on your skills for building a brighter world. Learn about using social media wisely and thriving offline. Create a hot-air balloon with Nur to soar with hope and joy. And meet Dr. Augusto López-Claros, an economist who develops international solutions to global problems.

We can't predict how history will unfold, but we can each do our best to make the world a better place. Things like being active in your community and being kind can make a huge difference. And that can give everyone hope for the future.

LOVE, BRILLIANT STAR

Stars by Markovka, skyline by Spectrum Studio, both from Shutterstock [Page 2]

FLEXIBLE FELINES

Did you know that cats are fantastically flexible? They’re so limber they can twist 180 degrees. That means their upper body can face one way while their lower body turns the opposite way! The secret is elastic discs that act as cushions between their spinal bones. That’s why a cat can adjust rapidly, whether it’s fleeing, hunting, or playing with your shoelace.

We can learn a lot from cats about keeping our cool and rolling with changes. Flexibility isn’t just a fun trick—it’s a virtue that helps us adapt to the unexpected. If a storm pounces on your plans or your siblings growl about chores, get creative and purr-oblem solve. Keep an open mind and stay paw-sitive to boost your health and happiness.

No matter what challenges prowl your way, staying flexible can help you calmly land on your feet.

BRAVE: BOE CREATIVE: CALI HELPFUL: HARU HUMOROUS: HOBBES LISTENING: LOZ OPTIMISTIC: OKI PATIENT: POE RESOURCEFUL: RIZZI RESILIENT: RION

Find nine cats named for qualities that can help us stay flexible when trouble pounces.

WHERE DO CATS TAKE NOTES? ON SCRATCH PAPER!

WHY ARE CATS AFRAID OF TREES? IT’S THE BARK! [Page 3]

Steer Your Ship

"The essential thing is patience, fortitude, courage, and audacity." -Bahá’í Writings

n life's voyage, it's tough to navigate the stresses of school, friends, and family. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the son of Bahá’u’lláh, faced a whirlwind of challenges too. For example, when he led the Bahá’í Faith after his father's passing, enemies spread rumors, trying to turn people against ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. He also took an epic three-year journey to share the Bahá’í teachings in Europe and North America. And during World War I, he guided farmers to grow wheat, which saved people from starving.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá told his secretary, Dr. Youness Afroukhteh, that his work was like sailing a ship. "I locate my destination and then by the power of My will I hold the wheel and head out. No matter how strong the storm ... I do not become agitated or disheartened; I persevere until I reach my goal."*

Hard times can feel like steering a ship in a storm. Like ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, we can trust in God and use determination to stay on course.

Unscramble the letters to discover words that help us steer through stormy challenges.

• ‘Abdu’l-Bahá's quote is from the remembrances of Dr. Youness Afroukhteh and may not be his exact words. Answers on page 28

[Page 4]

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.

Bahá’u’lláh's Life: Mission of Peace Building a New World

magine what life would be like if we all lived in peace and justice. Everyone's basic needs would be met, and all would be treated with respect. Some people think that will never happen. But the Bahá’í teachings say, "World peace is not only possible but inevitable."

Bahá’u’lláh, the Founder of the Bahá’í Faith, revealed steps to peace. He was imprisoned and exiled from His homeland because of His teachings. Still, He wrote to world leaders in the late 1800s. He urged them to end wars and establish justice. He sent guidance to Queen Victoria of Great Britain, the Sháh of Persia (now Iran), the leaders of America, and others.

In Bahá’u’lláh's vision of the future, He promised that nations will reduce weapons to a minimum. If one country wants to fight, others will unite against it to stop war. International laws will be followed. He called this stage the "Lesser Peace."

At times, it may seem that wars, conflicts, and dishonesty are everywhere. This is the disintegration, or coming apart, of the old way of life. At the same time, there are sparks of hope. This is the process of integration, or joining together. In slow steps, parts of our human family are cooperating with each other. One example is the United Nations, a group of nearly 200 governments working to achieve peace, protect human rights, and help those in need. There are other efforts to expand healthcare and education, end poverty, and protect the environment.

Bahá’u’lláh taught that after the Lesser Peace, the "Most Great Peace" will come.

Bahá’u’lláh was imprisoned in the city of ‘Akká, Israel, when He wrote some of His letters to world leaders.

In this stage, all people will recognize that we are spiritual beings. Global peace and unity will be based on spiritual principles like justice and compassion.

The worldwide Bahá’í community is one example of how this unity in diversity might look. There are several million Bahá’ís, and they come from nearly every culture, ethnicity, and religion on Earth. Without clergy, they elect leaders in a fair and peaceful process.

The concept of the Covenant makes the Bahá’í Faith unique. This agreement to follow Bahá’u’lláh's guidance keeps the community from splitting into different groups. In His will, Bahá’u’lláh named His son, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, as the Faith's leader. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá passed leadership to his grandson, Shoghi Effendi. Today, Bahá’ís elect Local and National Spiritual Assemblies and the Universal House of Justice to guide their activities. [Page 5]"The purpose of religion as revealed from the heaven of God's holy Will is to establish unity and concord amongst the peoples of the world..." -Bahá’u’lláh

Bahá’ís are encouraged to share the Faith with others. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi set goals for growing the Faith, known as the Divine Plan. Today, the Universal House of Justice creates plans that continue for a number of years. Bahá’ís are now participating in the Nine Year Plan, which includes goals for 2022-2031.

By practicing virtues and offering service to our communities, we each contribute to global peace. In the words of Bahá’u’lláh, "True peace and tranquility will only be realized when every soul will have become the well-wisher of all mankind."

The Universal House of Justice meets in this majestic building on Mount Carmel in Haifa, Israel.

Find words related to the story

Find words related to the story. Look up, down, backward, forward, and diagonally.

COVENANTCKSMUYS ZOFTLIK QIGNT I Y V DUO INTEGRATIONS GITPSFMUUBWDYSG QYVQEEE KVQATTPN RHDE YR R C N Q NG III N Y SNR LA VA J A IN RH WMTK V SITI ELTAIC GLOBALIMICPRMTA AMH GUULTANEOUUE KVHUNMN JY F G B HAT JUSTICE SA URZ XLZ Z Z VYTILIUQNARTB HHKCYQRTXJNKZYS EINB PIH SREDA ELT XHZ B

Cooperating Covenant Diversity Fair Family Global Hope Humanity Integration Justice Leadership Peace Plan Service Spiritual Teachings Tranquility Unity [Page 6]

Maya's Mysteries

"Every part of the universe is connected with every other part by ties that are very powerful and admit of no imbalance..." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Connect in Nature

I had fun hanging out with my friend Zoe today. I hadn't seen her since she moved out of our neighborhood. It felt like forever! At first we were kind of quiet. Then I suggested going for a walk in the woods with my dog, Pinecone. Did you know that nature can help people connect? Spending time outdoors together can boost gratitude and wonder. That can make us feel happy and more open-hearted.

EXPLORING NATURE IS A GREAT WAY TO CONNECT!

It felt easier to talk to Zoe surrounded by the trees and the warm sunshine. It inspired us to have a fun photoshoot with Pinecone too. We found lots of pinecones for him to pose with. He looked so cute! We also came up with these ideas for having fun outside with friends. We're going to get together with other friends in the neighborhood and try them out. Zoe and I felt like our old selves in no time!

Maze of Trust

Create a maze with sticks, rope, or stones. Break into pairs. Player 1 puts on a blindfold, and Player 2 places hands on their shoulders and guides them safely through the maze. Then switch places, so Player 2 is blindfolded.

Photo Hunt

Make a list of cool things to find on a nature walk. Divide into teams, and give each team a copy of list. Take a walk and snap photos of the items. Then share your images. List ideas: animals playing, something colorful, body of water, item that looks like a smile, cool pattern, etc.

Amoeba Tag

Choose 1 or 2 Amoeba Taggers. When an Amoeba Tagger tags someone, they hold hands to join. When a chain has 4 Amoeba Taggers, it splits into 2 groups of 2. If a chain breaks, players must join together before tagging anyone. Play until everyone is caught.

Nature's Virtues

INCLUSIVE FRONDLY BEAUTY NURTURING TEAMWORK HARMONY IN NATURE SUPPORT LOVE HARMONY POSITIVE WONDER CURIOUS FRIENDLY PEACE REVERENCE

PLAY NATURE BINGO Scan the QR codes for these fun ways to explore nature with friends and family! [Page 7]

Wind in Your Sails

What dreams would you love to achieve? Sometimes sailing toward a big goal feels like a rough journey to a distant land. You’re excited about your destination, but you might worry about the challenges you’ll face along the way. Will you get lost and need to ask for help? Confront scary sea monsters? Start sinking in doubt? To reach your safe harbor, map out goals for yourself.

Goal-setting helps you keep track of your progress and stay focused and positive. It can encourage you to plan ahead too. If you hit stormy seas, you’ll be prepared to navigate them. Anchor yourself with support from friends and family. Whether you want to learn a new skill, tackle a big project, or go on an adventure, planning and perseverance can keep the wind in your sails!

AHOY, CAPTAIN! ON THE SHIP’S HULL, WRITE A MAJOR GOAL AND THE DATE YOU WANT TO REACH IT. WRITE YOUR PLANS ON THE SAILS TO HELP CHART YOUR COURSE.

DRAW A SYMBOL OF YOUR GOAL ON THE TOP SAIL.

MY STRENGTHS:

MY SKILLS:

VIRTUES I’LL NEED:

SUPPLIES I’LL NEED:

STEPS I CAN TAKE:

CHALLENGES:

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS:

INSPIRING PRAYER/QUOTE:

WHO CAN HELP:

MY GOAL WILL HELP OTHERS BY:

I’LL CELEBRATE SUCCESS BY:

I’LL LEARN:

GOAL & TIMELINE: [Page 8]

Hopeful Horizons: Make a Hot-Air Balloon

“O Thou beloved of my heart and soul! . . . Thy love encompasseth me and Thy grace is perfect. My hope is in Thee.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

My teacher invited me to enter a project in our community arts and crafts show. I’d love to try, but I’m nervous. I’m afraid I’ll mess up, or my friends won’t like what I make.

This morning, I flew to the top of our treehouse to watch the sun rise over the hills. It was so beautiful! It filled me with hope and reminded me that each day is like a new start. Then, guess what appeared in the sky? A hot-air balloon! As it floated by, my imagination lit up, and I got a cool idea for the show—to make my own hot-air balloon! It reminds me to stay hopeful as I soar toward my goals and dreams. You can make one too!

THIS CRAFT ENCOURAGES ME TO FLY TOWARD MY GOALS!

You’ll Need

• 4 drinking straws
• two 9 oz. (266 mL) paper cups
• 11” (28 cm) round balloon
• 2 coated paper bowls
• ruler
• scissors
• modeling clay
• pen
• hole punch
• duct tape
• 1 cup (237 mL) white glue
• tablespoon
• water
• paintbrush
• paper towels
• colorful tissue paper
• small slips of paper

1. Cut paper cup in half and use bottom for balloon’s basket. Press clay evenly inside basket so it’s half full.
2. (a) Cut along seam and base of other cup and press flat. Turn basket upside down on flattened cup, trace, and cut out. (b) Trim circle to fit in cup over clay. Punch 4 evenly spaced holes ¼” (.6 cm) from circle’s edges. Push circle into basket.
3. Press pen’s tip through holes into clay. Pinch end of each straw and push straws firmly into clay holes, slightly angled outward. Attach straws to inside of basket with tape.

[Page 9]

Nur’s Nook

4 (a) Blow up balloon to 7" (17.8 cm) and knot the end. In bowl, mix ½ cup (118 mL) glue with 2 tablespoons (29 mL) water for a thick mixture.* Set balloon in other bowl. (b) Tear paper towel into stamp-sized pieces. Coat pieces in glue mixture. Without covering 1" (2.5 cm) around knot, cover rest of balloon with 2 or 3 smooth layers. Let dry 1–2 days. Rotate balloon now and then so it dries evenly and won’t stick to bowl.

5 Mix ¼ cup (59 mL) of glue with 3 tablespoons (44 mL) water (so it’s thinner than in Step 4a). Cut tissue paper in stamp-sized pieces, coat with mixture, and apply to papered areas of balloon in one smooth layer. Let dry as in Step 4b.

6 Cut off balloon’s knot to deflate and remove it from papered balloon. Punch four evenly spaced holes ¾" (1.9 cm) from opening’s edges.

7 (a) Wrap thin strip of tape around each straw 2" (5 cm) above basket, so taped portions are thicker than holes. (b) Turn balloon upside down. Pinch straw ends closed and thread straws through holes, stopping at tape. Turn balloon right side up and balance it evenly on taped parts of straws.

8 Decorate balloon and basket by adding tissue paper cutouts with glue.

9 Write your goals for the future on slips of paper. Put them in the basket to remind you to soar toward your dreams!

• Use a table cover to protect furniture.

[Page 10]BECOME AS WAVES OF ONE SEA, TREES OF ONE FOREST, GROWING IN THE UTMOST LOVE... AND UNITY.

—‘Abdu’l-Bahá [Page 11]

EXPLORE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AND ITS CREATURES

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

WE ARE ONE

EARTH-SAVING TIP

Street Smarts Learn to use a paper map and plan your family’s next trip, large or small. With map-reading skills, you’ll be able to find your way even without a phone or computer.

WOW, REALLY?

By studying positions of the stars, ancient scientists figured out the size of the Earth in 200 BCE!

OUR CONNECTIONS

From ancient charts used by sailors to digital maps of today, visual representations of our world are created by cartographers. Maps can present data such as landmark locations, shrinking glaciers due to climate change, or neighborhoods needing grocery stores. In the future, digital maps will be more 3D and interactive, allowing us to visit sites virtually and learn lots of cool facts. They’ll give us powerful tools to help and share our planet.

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

Dr. Derek Alderman, a geographer from Tennessee, U.S., addresses injustice in names of schools, streets, and other places, often related to slavery or civil rights. He says, “Place names are important symbols that do not always honor the nation’s cultural diversity”; we need “a more inclusive American landscape.”

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

When Bahá’u’lláh, the Bahá’í Faith’s Founder, was exiled to this ancient port in 1863, it was called Constantinople. It’s home to 3,000 mosques and the 220-foot (67 m) Galata Tower, built in 1348. Unscramble the letters to find the city’s current name:

ITANSLBU ○○○○○○○○, TÜRKİYE

AMAZING ANIMALS

These small birds live in underground dens, coming out in daylight to hunt insects, scorpions, and rodents. They can rotate their heads 270 degrees. Some tilt their heads to see or hear better. Fill in the blanks to find their name:

B○RR○○ING ○○LS [Page 12]

True Treasure

"The world of humanity is submerged in a sea of materialism... Strive so that the light of reality may shine..." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Do you own a sea of stuff? Is your room overflowing with the latest gadgets or a bunch of cool kicks? It's fine to have fun things, but if we're too attached to them or constantly want more, it can bring us down. We can sink into materialism, where we value possessions more than things that uplift our soul, like friendship or creativity. Materialism can create a dizzying whirlpool of unhappiness and anxiety.

You can break free from the monsters of materialism. If you want something new, try asking yourself why you want it. Do you think you need it to be happy? Could you borrow it from someone instead?

Make a list of activities that lift your spirit. Think about things you're thankful for. Mindfulness and gratitude can help you focus on the true treasures of life.

Match each materialistic monster to the positive creature that can help.

Tranquil Turtle Excessive Exos Selfish Scuba Enthusiastic Eel Negative Norg Learning Lobster Ungrateful Ubly Moderate Manta Ray Considerate Clam Frantic Fin Optimistic Oyster Bored Binko Humble Hermit Crab Sharing Seahorse Rude Rugo Ignorant Ibby Haughty Hyra

TAKE ONE COIN

Grateful Grouper

Answers on page 28 [Page 13]

Are You Building a Brighter World?

“Dedicate the precious days of your lives to the betterment of the world . . .” —Bahá’u’lláh

If a crystal ball could show you the future, what do you think you’d see? It may be hard to imagine. When you hear scary news about climate change, disease, or war, you might wonder if the world will ever be peaceful.

But you can also find positive stories of people who give to others or create awesome inventions. We can all help build a brighter world. You have your own stories to tell!

Like constructing a bridge, building a new world calls for dedication and positivity. Focus on actions you can take. When you show kindness to a friend who’s stressed, help out in your community, or speak up about injustice, you put another brick in place. Piece by piece, your efforts add up, and you develop more skills. One day, you may be surprised at the amazing world you’ve helped create!

Do you focus on building a brighter world? Circle your answers, then add up your points.

Try this quiz online! Scan code to go to Brilliant Star’s website.

1. I focus on the positive things in life, even when I’m facing challenges.
   Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1
2. When I’m worried, I talk to trusted people and do things like go out in nature, make art, or pray to feel better.
   Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1
3. I try to learn about and make friends with people from all cultures, faiths, and backgrounds.
   Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1
4. When I have a question, I search for truth and make up my own mind.
   Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1
5. When I make a mistake, I keep my cool and try to learn from it.
   Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1
6. I find ways to help my family, community, and school.
   Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1
7. I encourage others and tell them what I appreciate about them.
   Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1
8. Every day, I think about what I’m thankful for and express my gratitude.
   Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1
9. I try to see the good in everyone and remember we’re all one human family.
   Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1
10. When I disagree with someone, I try to understand their side of things.
    Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1
11. In groups, I focus on what we have in common and ways we can cooperate.
    Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1
12. I am honest and trustworthy, and I follow through with what I say I’ll do.
    Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

My Score

36–28 POINTS You’re taking action to build a brighter world! Keep up your efforts with joy and confidence.

27–20 POINTS You’re making progress at building a new world. Try a tip from the quiz to add more tools to your toolbox.

19–12 POINTS You can develop your strengths to help build a better world. Try some tips from the quiz.

[Page 14]

LIGHTNING & LUNA

THE VAULT

1. 97

BAXTER AND BRIDGET

AT A TOP SECRET SEED VAULT IN IDAHO . . .

(Scientist thinking): THE CUBES* ARE SO POWERFUL, AND MIN WANTS ME TO MAKE THEM STRONGER. THEY COULD BE DANGEROUS IN THE WRONG HANDS!

OUTSIDE THE VAULT . . .

Luna: HQ, WE FOUND THE ERASERS’ LAIR! IT WAS HIDDEN BY AN INVISIBILITY FIELD.

HQ: GREAT WORK! SENDING MORE UPLIFTERS. THEY’RE BRINGING ISOLATORS TO DISABLE THE CUBES THAT ARE DESTROYING POWER PLANTS.

Lightning: WELCOME? TO A HIDDEN PLACE? OR IT’S A TRAP SET BY ERASERS!

Luna: UPLIFTER IDS WORK ALMOST ANYWHERE.

Screen: Welcome! Scan ID Here

Luna: THIS DOESN’T LOOK LIKE AN ERASER LAIR. LET’S LOOK AROUND BEFORE BACKUP ARRIVES.

Lightning: HOW WEIRD!

Lightning: IT’S HUGE! LOOKS LIKE A SEED VAULT.

Luna: YEAH, GREAT FOR PROTECTING CROP SEEDS. BUT WHY WOULD ERASERS DO THAT?

Lightning: UH-OH!

Luna: WHAT IN THE . . .

Robot: MEEEEEEP! BUUUZZZZ!

Luna: HEY, THEY’RE BLASTING US WITH . . .

Lightning: WATER! THEY THINK WE’RE PLANTS! I CAN’T BE-LEAF IT!

Luna: REALLY, LIGHTNING?

• See Ep. 93-96: brilliantstarmagazine.org/luminous-library/LLTheme

[Page 15]THERE’S THE ERASER—GET HIM!

WHO ARE YOU? HOW DID YOU GET IN HERE?

WE’RE UPLIFTERS!

WE KNOW YOU’VE BEEN ATTACKING POWER PLANTS WITH YOUR CUBES.

WHAT? MY CUBES DON’T ATTACK. THEY PLANT SEEDS! I’M CALLING FOR HELP!

ZAAAAAP! BOOOOOOM!

NOT SO FAST. WE HAVE PLANS FOR THESE CUBES!

WHO ARE YOU? WHERE DID YOU GET THAT CUBE?

WE’RE ERASERS. YOU MUST BE THE CUBEMAKER! GIVE US ALL THE CUBES, OR ELSE!

AVARICE! WE HAD A DEAL!

MIN!

YOU GOT THE CUBES YOU PAID FOR! NOW GET OUT!

WE DON’T NEED YOU. WE’LL TAKE THE REAL CUBEMAKER!

MIN . . . YOU STOLE AND SOLD MY CUBES? WHY?

WITH THE POWER OF THESE CUBES, I’LL DEFEAT ALL OF YOU!

WE’RE STOPPING ALL OF YOU!

NOBODY CAN STOP ME NOW!

SCAN FOR ALL EPISODES OF LIGHTNING & LUNA [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?

Ollie M.

Age: 13 I live in: Oregon, U.S. I want to be: Engineer This career interests me because: I like to invent things, and I love technology. Virtue I admire most: Truthfulness Favorite Bahá’í activity: Bahá’í camps Place I'd love to visit: Japan What gives me hope: My friends and family, because I can talk to them To bring positivity to myself and others, I can: Be kind to everybody A hero or role model: My parents I'm thankful for: My family, my friends, and my home To help people get along in peace: I love Bahá’u’lláh’s principle of having a universal language, because if we all were able to communicate, there would be more understanding [between] cultures. To help the world, I'd like to invent: A machine that would collect all of the pollution in the ocean and use it as energy

Ryleigh Rose A.

Age: 12 I live in: Florida, U.S. I want to be: Doctor or veterinarian This career interests me because: I like helping others. Favorite Bahá’í activity: Bahá’í children's classes Place I'd love to visit: Iran A hero or role model: My mother and father Favorite animal or pet: Dogs and pandas To help people get along in peace, I'd: Help people understand unity in diversity and respect each other's faith. Also, I would help people to increase their education on diversity. To help the world, I'd like to invent: An app that helps people from all over the world talk and understand each other easily. It would make understanding different cultures and ideas simple, bringing everyone closer together. What gives me hope: Spending time with family, saying a prayer, and staying positive To bring positivity to myself and others, I can: Do small acts of kindness for everyone

Vargha T.

Age: 13 I live in: Ohio, U.S. I want to be: Someone who works with airplanes This career interests me because: I am fascinated by airplanes .they unite the world. Favorite Bahá’í activity: Junior youth classes Virtues I admire most: Patience, leadership, kindness A hero or role model: My parents Hobbies or sports: Soccer, skiing, and music. I make music with software, and I play piano and saxophone. Place I'd love to visit: Hawaii To help people get along in peace, I'd: Schedule get-togethers for people so they could get to know each other To help the world, I'd like to invent: Something that could suck up pollution What gives me hope: Saying prayers and talking about it To bring positivity to myself and others, I can: Tell a joke I'm thankful for: My home, my family, and the ability to go places [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

Jackson E.

Age: 12 I live in: Connecticut, U.S. I want to be: Engineer or astronomer This career interests me because: I like building things, and I like astronomy. Virtue I admire most: Kindness Hobbies or sports: Swimming and whittling Favorite Bahá’í activity: [Going to] Green Acre Bahá’í School [in Maine, U.S.] Favorite animal or pet: Andi, my pet dog To bring positivity to myself and others, I can: Pray I’m thankful for: My family, my friends, and my pets

A hero or role model: Bahá’u’lláh To help people get along in peace, I’d: Remind people of the virtues with which they were endowed To help the world, I’d like to invent: An electric car that would never have to be recharged What gives me hope: God is always watching over me, and when I’m worried, I can ask Him for help.

Karmila R.

Age: 12 I live in: California, U.S. I want to be: I’m not completely sure, but forensic science is something that seems pretty cool. This career interests me because: I enjoy investigating and figuring things out. Virtue I admire most: Empathy Hobbies or sports: Softball, piano, guitar, singing, and poetry Favorite Bahá’í activity: Devotionals* Place I’d love to visit: Greece A hero or role model: [Supreme Court Justice] Ruth Bader Ginsburg To bring positivity to myself and others, I can: Make people happy

To help people get along in peace: All the cultures can come together and build communities that follow the laws of God for this day. To help the world: I think instead of creating new inventions, we could try to educate people more. Inventions could force people to think a certain way . . . Education lets people have the resources to understand something, but still lets them think for themselves. I’m thankful for: My guitar, my voice, and my sisters

Mya T.

Age: 11 I live in: North Dakota, U.S. I want to be: Doctor This career interests me because: I like caring for people when they are sick. Virtue I admire most: Compassion Favorite Bahá’í activity: 19-day Feast** Favorite foods: Fufu (dumplings made of yam flour) and eru (a vegetable from Cameroon served with spinach, dried shrimp and fish, and beef) A hero or role model: My cousin Yovita I’m thankful for: Family, the Sun, and God

Favorite animal: Giraffe To help the world, I’d like to invent: The cure for cancer What gives me hope: I think of the worst thing that can happen. Then I usually am calmed down. To bring positivity to myself and others, I can: Help people with what they’re doing, or even just smile

• Devotionals are gatherings for sharing prayers, holy writings, and music.
  • Feast is a Bahá’í community gathering with prayers, consultation, and fellowship.

How to be a Radiant Star

1. If you’re aged 7–14, scan the QR code with a smart phone’s camera. Or go to brilliantstarmagazine.org and from the top menu, choose “Discover.” Click “Become a Radiant Star or Trailblazer.” 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 ask for 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).

3. We’ll send you questions and a form for you and your parents to sign. Answer the questions and send them to us with the signed form, and you’ll be in our next issue! [Page 18]

Nuri H.

Age: 11

I live in: Colorado, U.S.

I want to be: Entrepreneur (my own business/food business), botanist, astrobiologist, zoologist, chef/baker, artist, architect

This career interests me because: I can impact the world in multiple ways.

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Studying Bahá’í writings, visiting temples and shrines

What gives me hope: The people who are changing the world in positive ways

A hero or role model: [Artist] Bob Ross (he had love for all things)

I’m thankful for: My cat, dog, family, and food

To help people get along in peace, I’d: Sit down with different people from each culture and faith and listen to what they believe . . . [Then] I’d research and present a compromise to settle [conflicts].

To help the world, I’d like to invent: A way to provide all of the things required to live on another planet

Kaiya B.

Age: 11

I live in: California, U.S.

I want to be: A music conductor

This career interests me because: I love music and seeing people progress to make an awesome concert.

Virtue I admire most: Truthfulness

Favorite Bahá’í activity: Learning Ruhi Book 1* in Japanese

A hero or role model: My teacher, Mrs. Sakura, for always being patient and kind

To help people get along in peace, I’d: Make sure everyone learns about the Bahá’í Faith

To help the world, I’d like to invent: A medical cure for ALS (a disease)

What gives me hope: Knowing that I have a lot of friends and family that love and support me

To bring positivity to myself and others, I can: Tell people funny jokes

I’m thankful for: My mom beating cancer, my dad, and all my friends that make me laugh every day

Elowen L.

Age: 10

I live in: New Mexico, U.S.

I want to be: Orthopedic surgeon

This career interests me because: I love to help injured people.

Virtue I admire most: Truthfulness

Favorite Bahá’í activities: Children’s class and devotionals

Place I’d love to visit: Dubai [United Arab Emirates]

Hobbies or sports: Drawing and skiing

To help people get along in peace, I’d: Stop racism and discrimination [against] women in the world and make sure [people who are] homeless and poor all have a fair share

To help the world, I’d like to invent: A machine to stop ocean pollution and littering and clean vandalism

What gives me hope: Thinking about all the good things in life and not focusing on bad moments

To bring positivity to myself and others, I can: Always be truthful, kind, and generous

Kaya E.

Age: 10

I live in: Arizona, U.S.

I want to be: Professional jazz drummer

This career interests me because: I love music, and it makes me excited when I play it!

Hobbies or sports: Soccer, drums, upright bass, guitar, ukulele, accordion, reading

Favorite Bahá’í activity: Ayyám-i-Há**

Place I’d love to visit: Türkiye, so I can see my Turkish family

A hero or role model: Dizzy Gillespie, a Bahá’í jazz musician

Virtue I admire most: Creativity

A favorite food: Sushi

I’m thankful for: Food, water, and family

To help people get along in peace, I’d: Take away all weapons so there would be no wars

To help the world, I’d like to invent: A machine that sucks up carbon dioxide for less global warming

What gives me hope: Playing music

To bring positivity to myself and others, I can: Always keep a sense of humor!

• Ruhi books are a series of books about the Bahá’í teachings that people study in groups.

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

[Page 19]

WINDS OF TESTS

Have you ever seen a tree in a windstorm? The branches bend in forceful gusts. Even if some leaves and twigs break off, the tree's roots anchor it to Earth.

Similar to stormy weather, difficulties can shake up our lives. We might struggle with a big school project or feel troubled by sad events in the world. But like a tree, we can be strong and flexible when winds get rough. Tests give us chances to develop virtues, such as compassion, courage, and patience. Just as trees grow deep roots and protective bark, we can strengthen our spirits with prayer and meditation. We can spend time in nature and express ourselves through the arts.

"When the winds of tests blow, the frail trees are uprooted while the blessed trees are made firm and immovable." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Challenges will pass in time. Storms always end, and sunny days return. When we plant seeds of positivity, we can branch out with joy and confidence!

Use the letter pairs on the leaves to complete tips about standing up to tests. Each pair can only be used once.

LK IT MI SK RE IR ND SO SP HE TA LO GE CH GA CA ED IL AN OK LV YO LS RO

1 You can build SK _ _ to handle challenges.

2 Pray and read holy books to lift your _ _ _ _ _ _ .

3 _ _ _ _ to yourself as you would a friend.

4 Imagine how your _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ would handle things.

5 Think about how you _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ past problems.

6 _ _ _ _ at different angles to find a creative solution.

7 Focus on ways _ _ _ _ _ _ _ can be good.

8 Ask people who _ _ _ _ about you for their advice.

9 Do exercise you enjoy to clear your _ _ _ _ .

10 Breathe deeply, do _ _ _ _ or make art to stay calm.

Answers on page 28 [Page 20]

ASK A SPACE SCIENTIST

Our universe is full of mysteries, and some of the most mind-boggling are in space. Curious kids asked questions, and we sent them to a space scientist. Have questions about space? Send them to brilliant@usbnc.org (with your name and age).

Is it possible to make a car that could drive on land and fly in the air? — Jackson, age 12

Hi, Jackson,

There are groups around the world that are trying to develop flying cars. Some have built prototypes that actually fly! Early flying car designs had to deploy wings and propellers to provide the lift and thrust forces needed to fly. When the car landed, the wings would fold up for driving. They were like small airplanes that could taxi on the road. But they were expensive, many people were concerned about their safety, and the drivers had to be licensed pilots.

Today, new ideas are being developed that could lead to flying cars being commonplace. Cars with fans or rotors to take off like helicopters are being tried. Some look like large quadcopter drones and can use electric motors. But the batteries that supply electricity need to be much lighter and more powerful than those in today’s electric cars. For flying cars to be operated without licensed pilots, they need to be “self-flying”—similar to current efforts to make cars “self-driving.” I believe these technologies will be perfected. You may one day have your own flying car! — Steve

A future eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft might look like this—and create no air pollution.

COSMIC QUIZ

In 1930, American astronomer Clyde Tombaugh discovered the ninth planet, Pluto. In 2006, after finding other small objects in the solar system, astronomers reclassified Pluto as a:

A) Fake planet B) Petite planet C) Mini planet D) Dwarf planet

Pluto’s heart-shaped area is called Tombaugh Regio. [Page 21]

How long will it take until we have spaceships that can go light-speed?

How long will it take until we have spaceships that can go light-speed? - Naim, age 13

Hi, Naim, The speed of light-almost 186,000 miles per second (300,000 km per second)-is the fastest speed possible in our current understanding of physics. It's called the speed of light because only light or other electromagnetic energy, like radio signals, can go that fast.

The Large Hadron Collider is a 16.6-mile-long circular tunnel. Powerful magnets inside it crash particles, like protons, at close to the speed of light.

The theory of relativity says anything with mass, such as a spaceship, can't go that fast. We haven't tested this with a spacecraft. But using small atomic particles such as protons, physicists have reached 99.999999% of the speed of light (pretty close!). They used the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the world's most powerful particle accelerator. So, as far as we know, a spaceship can't travel at the speed of light.

But we don't know all the laws of physics. For example, the theory of relativity predicted black holes, and they were discovered. It also says "white holes" could exist, but none have been found. Some physicists think a tunnel (or wormhole) could connect a black hole and a white hole, and perhaps be used to travel great distances in space. We're making exciting discoveries that I believe we'll use to explore space! - Steve

BACK IN TIME

In 1971, David Scott and James Irwin were the first people to drive on the Moon, covering about 17 miles (27 km). They drove a lunar roving vehicle, often called a:

A) Dune buggy B) Moon buggy C) Moonmobile D) Lunarspeeder

STEVE SCOTTI

STEVE SCOTTI is Brilliant Star's STEAMS Education Advisor and a Distinguished Research Associate at NASA Langley Research Center in Virginia, U.S. His background is in developing lighter, stronger materials and structures for aircraft and spacecraft. Watching the first astronaut launched into space inspired his interest in space exploration.

ON THE WEB

In our Space Ace video interviews, meet two amazing astronauts at Dr. Scotti's STEAMS Station.

LELAND MELVIN was a pro football player and a NASA astronaut. When he went to space, it changed his perspective forever.

PEGGY WHITSON was a NASA astronaut and the first female commander of the International Space Station. She broke other records, too.

Scan the QR code with a smart phone or go to: brilliantstarmagazine.org/themes/DrScotti

NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS/Kevin M. Gill, NASA/Tony Gray and Tim Powers, NASA, NASA/ESA/Hubble, adventtr/Getty, xenotar/Getty, NASA/MSFC, NASA/JPL [Page 22]

Dr. Augusto López-Claros: STARGAZER

Would you stand in front of hundreds of people and translate a speech into another language? Augusto López-Claros did just that in Bolivia when he was 19. Even more amazing, the speaker was a leader in the Bahá’í Faith—Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum! She was the wife of Shoghi Effendi, the Faith’s Guardian. She had visited Augusto’s home when he was 11, and she inspired him from then on.

Augusto was born in Bolivia in 1955. Soon afterward, his mother became a Bahá’í. She was later elected to the national governing body of the Bahá’ís. Augusto remembers their loving meetings at his home. At age 15, Augusto went to live with his aunt in Alaska, U.S., to finish high school. He was great at math, which he studied at Cambridge University in the U.K. He earned a doctorate in economics from Duke University in the U.S. He’s worked as an economist in many countries, including Chile, Russia, and the U.S. Today, he’s Executive Director and Chair of the Global Governance Forum, based in Switzerland. He lives in Spain with his wife, Mirta.

Q: What’s one of your favorite childhood memories?

A: When I was 12, my father sent me to a German boarding school in a beautiful little town [for] several months... I was very homesick ... [But] it changed my outlook... I became much more studious.

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

A: My parents divorcing when I was nine... My mother and the three of us kids, we moved back to Cochabamba [from La Paz]... But my father was a good man ... he was always present in our lives. A few years later, [my mother married] a Bahá’í... So we grew up in a Bahá’í family...

Q: What set you on the path toward becoming an economist?

A: When I came back from Germany, I discovered that I had a gift for math. My first [college] degree and my first graduate degree [were] in mathematics... Economics came later in life... Over time, those aspects of economics that attracted me the most were issues of development—things like poverty and inequality and gender—and that also resonated very powerfully with the teachings of the Faith in this area. So in my profession, I could also find kind of an echo from the Bahá’í writings.

Left: At age 7, Augusto (right) posed for a passport photo with his mother, Yolanda; his brother, Enrique (left, age 2); and his sister, Trini (age 3). Right: In 1969, Augusto and his family gathered with Bahá’í friends in Cochabamba, Bolivia (standing: Augusto and his mother are at far right, Enrique is just below them, and Trini is fifth from the right).

Family photo above right by Stephen Pulley [Page 23]

Questions and Answers with an Inspirational Bahá’í

Above: Augusto and his family enjoyed a vacation together in France in December 2022 (left to right: his wife, Mirta, and their children, Olivia and Sebastian).

Left: In October 2022, Augusto spoke to an industry group in Europe about leadership.

Q: Do you think humanity will ever achieve world peace?

A: I think we will... People are realizing that unless we make a serious effort to rethink our global governance system, we put our future at risk...

Q: How can women's equality help everyone?

A: Discriminating against women is not just a violation of [their] rights, it's also bad economics... When you educate women and you empower them to join the workforce... [they have] much more leverage in terms of how those resources are used... More money gets spent on education, public health, the health of the children... [That] contributes to economic growth in the future, because...you're going to have a better-educated labor force. You have healthier children... because the mother has a say in how the resources are used.

Speaking photo by Olivier Pirard

Q: What is the Global Governance Forum?

A: [It] is an organization that understands that global challenges [such as] poverty, inequality, gender discrimination, violence, and climate change require nations coming together to address these problems on a global scale... For example, we are working on a revision to the United Nations Charter... to address problems like climate change and poverty.

Q: What can kids do now to help build a good foundation for their own economic growth and stability?

A: Education, that's the answer... I would urge everybody... [to] use the gifts that God gave us upon our birth, to develop them and put them to good use for the service of humanity... In this age of technology and complexity, we need to make a special effort to get the most and the best education that we're capable of getting.

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

A: It would be that... they find a sense of identification with the Central Figures* of the Faith—Their lives, Their writings—in a way that will strengthen their sense of identity [in] this Faith... When you have that emotional, spiritual, intellectual link to the Faith, it gives you strength in life. It gives you patience, courage, energy. It gives you all the skills that you need to navigate this difficult world.

• The Central Figures of the Bahá’í Faith are the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Learn more at brilliantstarmagazine.org.

[Page 24]

RILEY’S RAINFOREST: GETTING OFFLINE

I invited my friend Kirk, who's a kookaburra, to fly with me to the fig grove today. But when we got there, instead of feasting on fruit, Kirk was on his phone a lot.

It made me sad, because I felt like I was alone even though he was there. I asked him what's up. He was sad, too. Kirk told me he's been posting cool pics on Feathergram, but hasn't been getting many likes. He said his friends get tons of likes, and they're always doing awesome stuff.

I told him I get it, because I used to constantly be on Feathergram. But at the end of the day, when I thought about fun things I'd done, being online all the time wasn't one of them.

Did you know that too much social media can increase anxiety and lower self-esteem? When you see other people's pics, it's easy to compare yourself to them and think they have a cooler life than you. But you're only seeing a tiny piece of someone's life—not their struggles.

I LIKE TO USE SOCIAL MEDIA MINDFULLY!

Being on Feathergram a lot also meant I didn't have much time for things I really love to do, like flying with my friends, practicing my high dive, or dancing ballet. I fell behind in my homework and sleep, too.

Social media isn't all bad. It can be a good way to stay in touch with friends and laugh at cute koala videos. The trick is to use it mindfully and focus on what actually makes you happy. Kirk agreed and said he'd put away his phone. Nothing compares to being with friends in person, enjoying fresh figs, and flying together!

CURIOSITY CANOPY

Did you know that staying off screens may help your friendships? A study found that kids who spent more tech-free time outside were better at recognizing people's feelings than kids who spent more time on screens. Being in nature can lower stress and boost creativity, too!

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

EXPLORE & SOAR: TECH-FREE TIME

Check out these tips to focus on true fulfillment without screens.

• Plan tech-free breaks every day. Challenge yourself to see how long you can go.
• Make a list of fun things to replace screen time. Go outside, paint, dance, or do a science experiment!
• Don't scroll when you're hanging out with family and friends. Connect with them face-to-face.
• Try a new craft, like knitting, drawing a comic strip, writing a story, or making pottery.
• Put screens away at least an hour before bed to get a good night's sleep.
• At the end of each day, write down three fun activities you did. After two weeks, take a look: what are your favorites away from screens?

[Page 25]

TEAM

TOGETHER EFFORTS ACHIEVE MAGIC Journal about the

A team I've had fun working with and why:

To help build unity with my teammates, I:

To help my team achieve our goals, I use these strengths:

If I invented a teamwork award, it would look like this:

In the future, I'd like to be part of a team that:

Having diverse people on a team is important because:

Three things that make a team strong:

My favorite experience with a team:

Images: mustafahacalaki/Getty

A great memory of teamwork with my family:

A challenge our team overcame and virtues we used: [Page 26]

SHINING LAMP

A Bahá’í who served humanity with radiance Dr. Ugo Giachery (1896-1989) By Susan Engle

Ugo Giachery grew up in a wealthy family of nine children on the Italian island of Sicily. Their father, Uberto, loved teaching them about the solar system, plants, flowers, and trees. Ugo said, "It was for me a world of delights and wonders!" That may be why he earned a doctoral degree in chemistry and became a professor.

As a young man, Ugo was wounded in World War I. He moved to New York City and met Angeline, a Swedish Bahá’í he found "gentle, gracious, cultured, elegant and happy." In 1926, they married, and Ugo joined the peace-loving Bahá’í Faith.

Ugo exchanged letters with Shoghi Effendi, the leader and Guardian of the Faith. A relationship began which Ugo called "a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience of the deepest spiritual import." When Shoghi Effendi asked Bahá’ís to assist the Faith, Ugo always responded.

Monumental Services

After World War II, the Guardian urged Bahá’ís to move from their home countries to help establish the Faith worldwide. Angeline and Ugo went to Italy and helped form local and national elected bodies called Spiritual Assemblies.

In 1948, Shoghi Effendi began to construct a magnificent outer structure for the Shrine of the Báb in Haifa, Israel. He gave Ugo the giant task of finding marble, metal, and other supplies and shipping them to Israel. Building materials were hard to get, since they were needed to rebuild cities damaged in the war. For five years, Ugo spent many hours every day doing this critical work.

Shoghi Effendi made Ugo a "Hand of the Cause of God," a special person who helped to grow the Faith. He told Ugo, "The service you have rendered is not sufficiently appreciated today, but it will be fully appreciated in the future." He named one of the shrine's nine doors the "Giachery" door.

Teaching a King

After the passing of Shoghi Effendi in 1957, Ugo continued to share the Faith around the world. One of his many adventures was visiting Malietoa Tanumafili II, the king of Western Samoa. Ugo brought him a book of letters written by Bahá’u’lláh to world rulers. The Malietoa later said, "I am a Bahá’í... I believe in Bahá’u’lláh." He was the first ruling monarch to join the Bahá’í Faith.*

On Ugo's fifth visit to Samoa at age 93, he was welcomed by the Malietoa for the last time. Ugo grew ill, and in July 1989, he took his last breath. He was buried near Samoa's Bahá’í House of Worship. The Bahá’ís of Hawaii wrote, "We will miss his regal bearing, his dignity, his wit and the twinkle in his eyes. We will miss his graciousness and his gentleness. We will forever remember the tears welling up in his eyes when he shared with us his deepest feelings for the two great loves of his life: his beloved Guardian Shoghi Effendi and his dearly-loved wife Angeline."

Ugo accomplished many goals due to his love for the Bahá’í Faith. The Universal House of Justice, the Faith's global governing body, called him "VALIANT, INDEFATIGABLE, DEARLY-LOVED" and praised his "SPLENDID SERVICES."

• More about the Malietoa: brilliantstarmagazine.org/articles/shining-lamp-malietoa

[Page 27]

DEEP DISCOVERIES

Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Arctic, Southern—we have lots of names for Earth's oceans and seas. But they're really one giant, connected body. Their currents swirl around our planet, moving heat and creating weather systems. Our massive ocean covers almost three-fourths of Earth. It's so big and so deep that we've only explored about 5% of it.

Each year, about 2,000 new marine plants and animals are identified. Some live in the deep, dark waters near the ocean floor. There may be millions more species yet to find! Marine ecosystems can help us understand climate, weather, and diverse life forms. Healthy oceans and seas are vital to a thriving planet. They need our protection. Imagine the wonders waiting to be discovered!

Fill in the missing letters to discover how the ocean helps us and how we can help the ocean.

OCEAN PLANTS PROVIDE HALF OR MORE OF EARTH'S O YGE AND USE CARBON DIOXIDE, SO THEY SLOW GLOBAL WARMING.

OVER THREE BILLION PEOPLE DEPEND ON THE OCEAN AS A MAJOR OUR E OF PROTEIN.

WELOME TO OUR SEA-TY

MARINE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CAN CREATE MANY NEW ME ICI ES.

CURRENTS AND TIDES ARE AN ENDLESS SOURCE OF CLEAN N RGY.

OCEAN WATER EVAPORATES TO FORM CLOUDS THAT RAIN AND BRING US F ES WATER.

ABOUT 80% OF TRASH IN THE OCEAN IS PLASTIC. USE LESS PLASTIC, AND RE Y LE IT.

HELP CLEAN UP THE EA HES AND WATERWAYS NEAR YOU.

DON'T TOUCH MARINE LIFE OR DISTURB N TUR L HABITATS.

BE C RE UL WITH POURING STUFF DOWN THE DRAIN. HARSH CHEMICALS CAN END UP IN RIVERS AND OCEANS. [Page 28]

COSMO’S CORNER

Find Cosmo the Chameleon’s clues throughout the magazine.

WHY ARE CATS SO GREAT AT ACHIEVING THEIR GOALS?

WE FOCUS ON OUR PURRR-POSE!

AND WE PURRR-SEVERE!

ACROSS

2. Spending time outdoors together can boost gratitude and ________. (p. 6)

3. Whatever your skills are, you can build your strengths now to prepare for the ________. (p. 29)

7. Ugo Giachery visited the ________ of Western Samoa, the first ruling monarch to join the Bahá’í Faith. (p. 26)

9. ________ are fantastically flexible. (p. 2)

10. Riley says to use social media mindfully and focus on what actually makes you ________. (p. 24)

13. Dr. Augusto López-Claros urges us to get the most and the best ________ that we’re capable of getting. (p. 23)

14. The United ________ is working to achieve peace, protect human rights, and help those in need. (p. 4)

15. New ideas are being developed that could lead to flying ________ becoming commonplace. (p. 20)

16. Setting ________ helps you keep track of your progress and stay focused and positive. (p. 7)

DOWN

1. Tests give us chances to develop ________, such as compassion, courage, and patience. (p. 19)

4. Maya’s dog is named ________. (p. 6)

5. Our massive ________ covers almost three-fourths of Earth. (p. 27)

6. To bring positivity to themselves and others, Kaiya and Vargha both like to tell ________. (pp. 16, 18)

8. Kaya and Karmila both like to play this. (pp. 17–18)

10. Nur’s hot-air balloon reminds him to stay ________. (p. 8)

11. In the future, digital ________ will allow us to visit sites virtually and learn lots of cool facts. (p. 11)

12. We can all help build a brighter ________. (p. 13)

FROM OUR MAILBOX

I like that Brilliant Star teaches virtues and important life lessons to people. It helps me by reminding me how I should take action and try to be a better person overall. I have learned many important virtues, such as kindness and service. It has affected the way I treat myself and others.

– Leila M. , age 14, Massachusetts, U.S.

ANSWERS

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

Page 2: Boe at C, Cali at BR, Haru at BR, Hobbes at TR, Loz at BL, Oki at TL, Poe at CL, Rizzi at TC, Rion at C 5) Negative Norg, 6) Haughty Hyra, 7) Ignorant Ibby, 8) Selfish Scuba, 9) Ungrateful Ubly

Page 3: 1) calmness, 2) teamwork, 3) grateful, 4) hopeful, 5) patience, 6) courage, 7) focus, 8) faith, 9) prayer

Page 11: Istanbul, Türkiye; Burrowing Owls

Page 12: 1) Frantic Fin, 2) Bored Binko, 3) Excessive Exos, 4) Rude Rugo,

Page 19: 1) skills, 2) spirit, 3) Talk, 4) hero, 5) solved, 6) Look, 7) change, 8) care, 9) mind, 10) yoga

Pages 20–21: D) Dwarf planet, B) Moon buggy

Page 27: 1) oxygen, 2) source, 3) medicines, 4) energy, 5) fresh, 6) recycle, 7) beaches, 8) natural, 9) careful [Page 29]

A-MAZE-ING ADVENTURE

"Persevere in the task you have set your heart to accomplish, confident that through Divine assistance you will be able, sooner or later, to attain your goal." -Bahá’í Writings

magine you're about to explore space. Your adventure will take you deeper into the galaxy than any human has ever gone. Your mission is critical to the future of our planet. How will you prepare?

No matter what your role on this journey, you have skills that can help you succeed. Maybe you're a fantastic problem solver or an encouraging leader. You might be awesome at using the spacecraft's technology or helping crew members stay healthy.

Whatever your skills are, you can build your strengths now to prepare for the future. Practice handling uncertainty and change. Try new things. Reach out to new people and experience other cultures. The more you explore, the more confident you'll feel. If you make a mistake, focus on what you can learn from it. Celebrate your efforts. Find ways to keep growing, and you'll be ready when exciting opportunities zoom your way!

On this spaceship, help the kids reach the Windows of Wonder. [Page 30]“Every generation of youth . . . has seized the opportunity to contribute to the latest stage in the unfolding process that is to transform the life of humankind.” —Bahá’í Writings

Brilliant Star Hope for Our Future • Vol. 53 No. 2

AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHá’íS OF THE UNITED STATES

BRILLIANTSTARMAGAZINE.ORG