Brilliant Star/Volume 53/Issue 3/Text

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[Page 0]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: Dr. Farzin Amzajerdian + Dr. Hannah Cloke

Dr. Natascha Crandall « Sachika Dunmire Emma Eady + Susan Engle + Azizeh Milani Fifita Daniel Illari- Sanna E. Japones

Allen Miedema King + Christina Koch

Sarah Lambert-Gates - Erica Leith

River McKinney + Evander Parh

Eloise Patton + Anis Rezin « Daniel Sabet-Sharghi Sami Stefan + Olivia Tabibzadegan - Phil Tambe ART AND PHOTO CREDITS

Illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted

By Foad Ghorba

By Lisa Blecker:

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS

By Amy Renshaw: 2, 3, 4, 11, 12, 14, 20, 28 By Heidi Parsons: 1, 7, 10, 16, 22, 28

By Darcy Greenwood: |, 6, 13, 24, 27, 29 By Foad Ghorbani: 10, 29

By Lisa Blecker: 8,19

By Donna Price: 11, 14, 19, 25,

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RIGHTS, PERMISSIONS, AND CLASS USE

‘Al ontentin Brant Stars copied bythe Nata Spit Assembly the Bah ofthe US ory individual otros, Fr perio a copy rate, se fxm at bllantstarmogunexppeisn-equst or ite Brant Sta, 125 Cen St Evanston IL 60201 Teachers may photocopy agen ited quotes for dssoom use. “Balint Strand volumeunberor issue dle aust be pesnt nal copies, and pope cet gen tothe copyright owner.

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

Isswosse3635

Baha’u’llah’s Life: Mission of Peace He revealed teachings for a unified world.

Maya’s Mysteries Memory games to challenge your brain

Nur’s Nook Make a mandala for a meditative mood.

We Are One

Explore and care for the place we all call home.

Lightning and Luna: Episode #98 Have Erasers trapped the super siblings?

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

Stargazer: Dr. Farzin Amzajerdian His inventions help with space exploration.

Riley’s Rainforest What does it mean to be your true self?

Shining Lamp: Chester Kahn An artist and champion of Navajo culture

Cosmo’s Corner

A crossword and more from our favorite chameleon

A-MAZE-ing ADVENTURE Explore a peaceful garden path.

Leam more about

STEAMS

[Page 1]POWER OF YOUR SOUL vo..53 nNo3 a ~~ NEW DESTINATIONS

2 Josie’s Quiz: Do You Feed Your Soul?

Discover clues to what fills you up.

3 Be a Unicorn

Celebrate your unique qualities.

Lovers of the Light Friendly moths help us soar toward truth.

Care and Repair Help your gear persevere.

Lightning & Luna’s Meditation Tips

Develop your powers of peace!

Ride the Waves of Unity

- Balance on a board of virtues.

Consultation Is Key

Listen and learn to unlock mysteries.

Space Ace

An astronaut answers your cosmic questions.

Mudflat Marvels They thrive with stealthy skills.

Stuart & Gabriella: Follow Your Compass

Meet animals with navigation know-how.

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Stars by Markovka, skyline by Spectrum Studio, both from Shutterstock kid by monkeybusinessimages/Getty

DEAR FRIENDA,

What if you have inner magic that strengthens your

spirit, spreads joy to others, and helps you discover life's mysteries? You do! Your soul connects you to God and develops virtues like love, courage, and creativity. It’s your true inner self that makes you a unique and noble being. Nurturing your soul ; helps you live a happy, ) E

meaningful life. 4 P In this issue,

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4% explore the amazing ' and mysterious powers ; of your soul. Discover ways to express your authentic self and dare to be different. Make a

meditative mandala with Nur to quiet your mind. Take a quiz


|

} to test your soul-searching skills. Get meditation tips from Lightning and Luna. Learn from NASA astronaut Christina Koch. And meet Dr. Farzin Amzajerdian, a NASA engineer whose work with laser remote sensing technology can help spacecraft land safely on the Moon—and beyond. You can feed your soul by doing things like praying, being mindful, and reading writings from world religions.

Helping others can power you up too. As you transform your spirit, you also uplift your family, community, and the world!

LOVE BRILLIANT ATAR * [Page 2]$; Josie the Detective: Do You Feed Your Soul?

“The teachings of Baha'u'llah. . . are like a table provided with every kind of fresh and delicious food.” —‘Abdu’l-Baha

i, I'm Josie. | love exploring mysteries, religion, and justice. | like baking too! My friends Frieda, Eric, Aziz, and | are having a bake sale to raise money for the

food bank. Did you know baking is chemistry? We put dough

in the oven, and presto! Like magic, heat changes its color,

taste, and scent. And when we eat it, food turns into energy. Our souls—our true inner selves—need food too. They're

Our group made this quiz about food for our souls. Circle your answers and add up your score.

1. I think about my important goals and build virtues to reach them. Often=3 + Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

2. | express gratitude for life’s blessings every day. Often=3 + Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

3. | put my beliefs into action by being helpful and kind to others. Often=3 + Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

36-28 POINTS Way to go! You're an expert chef for your soul! Keep exploring and trying new flavors.

2 Brilliant Star * v53.N3

4. | take time to pray and meditate daily. Often=3 + Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

5.1 try to be mindful and pay attention to

what's going on in the present moment.

Often=3 + Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

6. | talk with family and friends about spiritual beliefs and other things that are meaningful to me.

Often=3 - Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

27-20 POINTS Good job. You're testing some tasty soul recipes. Try a tip from the quiz to add more heat.

It’s a win for everybody—our bake sale will give people food, provide money for the food bank, and feed our souls with service. What are your favorite recipes to fill your soul?

7. Ilearn about the history and teachings of my faith. Often=3 +» Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

8. | like to find out about other religions. Often=3 + Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

9. | read and reflect on sacred writings and try to learn from them. Often=3 + Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

10. | express my gifts and talents through hobbies, arts, and activities. Often=3 + Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

11. | spend time in nature and focus on the beauty around me. Often=3 + Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

12. | stay positive and look for the good in life and in people. Often=3 + Sometimes=2 + Rarely=1

Scan code to explore Josie’s stories about social justice, life’s mysteries, and faith.

19-12 POINTS You could work on feeding your soul. Try some tips from the quiz and dig in! [Page 3]Be a Unicorn

“The world is not only starving for lofty principles and ideals, it is, above all, starving for a shining example . . .” —Baha’i Writings vale “4 da — th

he unicorn, with its amazing spiral horn, has enchanted When someone is honest or kind, they can be like a

people since ancient times. In stories around the globe, _ unicorn. Those qualities are rare and can have a powerful it represents strength, purity, and nobility. impact. What if you're the only one in class who doesn’t

Did you know scholars once thought unicorns were real? ~—_ want to gossip? Or you're among the few who tells the truth They were in ancient Roman science books. AGreek doctor _ or sits with the new kid? You're being true to yourself and in 400 BCE claimed they had healing power. The explorer making the world better. If you ever feel uncomfortable Marco Polo said he saw them in 1300 CE(some sayhe was _ standing up for your beliefs, think of yourself as a unicorn. probably looking at rhinos). You'll be in pretty magical company!

SINCERE CAPE OF FRUITOF | HORNOF CROWNOF WISE FORGIVENESS = ORBOF~=—S—s«CLOVING ss SCROLL COURAGE _ FAIRNESS HOPE COMPASSION WAND FLASK HONESTY LANTERN

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= T LOVE LIVING MN WITH THE UNICORNS, f } DON’T YoU? at

YEAH, THEY MAKE GOO? NEIEHHH-BORS! h

Answers on page 28 V53 N3 %& Brilliant Star

[Page 4]The hife of Baha'u'llah

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

1817 November 12__| Birth of Bahd'u'llh in Tibrén, ran

a4. “BON” I Recognizes the Bab as anew Messenger of God

Ly RA OMS

Imprisonment in the “Black Pit’ of Tinran

1853-1863

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

Declares Divine Mission as Prophet Founder of the Baha‘ Faith

1863-1868 _| Exile in Constantinople ([stanbul, then Adrianople (Edime), Tarkiye. Begins writing etters to kings

and rulers in 1867,

urging world unity

1868" WT. |

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

1g77A& PVE 8) Finally fre to live in countryside homes

of Mazra‘h and then Bahjt, outside ‘Akké

Bahd{ullsh passes away at Babi.

rom the start of His Mission as a

Messenger of God in 1853, Baha'u'llah

faced imprisonment and exile from. His home in Persia (now Iran). Officials

wanted to stop the influence of the Baha't

Faith. But even in prison, Baha'u'llah revealed holy writings, urging humanity to build justice and peace.

In ‘Akka (now in Israel), Baha'u'llah wrote the Kitab-i-Aqdas, His Most Holy Book. It includes the laws of the Baha’t Faith. He called these laws “the breath of life unto all created things” and urged Baha'is to “obey them with joy and gladness..."

Baha'u'llah revealed laws about topics such as worship, marriage, wealth, education, and government. He also explained how to develop our souls: “Recite ye the verses of God every morn and eventide.” But He said we shouldn't read too much. “Lay not upon your souls that which will weary them and weigh them down, but rather what will lighten and uplift them . ..” It's better to read one verse with “joy and radiance” than to read a lot in a half-hearted way.

Baha'u'llah usually revealed His teachings aloud while His secretary wrote quickly. Others transcribed His words, handwriting copies for Baha’is. One devoted transcriber was Jinab-i- Zayn.* He compiled Baha'u'llah's answers to over 100 questions from Baha'is about laws in the Kitab-i-Aqdas.

Jinab-i-Zayn had suffered intense persecution for being a Baha'i. He was driven from his home in Baghdad (now in Iraq). He and a friend got lost, with no food and water for five days. They couldn't ask for help because people threatened their lives. Both men were

4 Brilliant Star * v53.N3

‘Abdu’l-Baha said of Jinab-i-Zayn, “This distinguished man was one of the greatest of all the Bab’s companions and all the loved ones of Baha'u'llah”

near death when they reached Mosul, 400 miles (644 km) away. After they recovered, the Baha'is turned to Jinab-i-Zayn for guidance, calling him “Father of the Exiles.” Around 1886, Jinab-i-Zayn moved to ‘Akka to be near Baha'u'llah. He lived in an inn called the Khan-i-‘Avamid. It was damp and full of fleas. ‘Abdu'l-Baha, Baha'u'llah’s eldest son, lived there too. There wasn't enough money for repairs. ‘Abdu'l-Baha said Jinab-i-Zayn copied sacred verses with “faultless care.” He encouraged Baha'is and “warmed the travelers’ hearts.” He transcribed volumes of the writings as a gift for Baha'u'llah. Baha'u'llah revealed the Baha'i Faith to “puild anew the whole world.” When we absorb His writings, they can transform our souls. We can help create a fair and united world where “all the peoples of the earth may attain unto abiding joy..."

Zaynu'-Mugarrabin was given this name by Baha'u'llah, It means “the

ornament of them that are nigh unto God.” The ttle "Jinab” conveys respect. [Page 5]“hive ye one with another, 0 people, in radiance and joy. By My life! All that are on earth shall pass away, while good deeds alone shall endure...” —Bahda’u’llah

Find 20 words related to this story. hook up, down, backward, forward, and diagonally.

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ENCOURAGED CBEYONDJSYTYHEMTIG QUESTIONS

GIFT SDNAEJSTYITFIGLO RADIANCE ZOKTCFNSTEYNAAW

GLADHESS FWUKIEUNITITEDRA J READING

HOW YDMLTZAOGRNIUUHU REFLECTING

HUMANITY WMPHSMSTDETIYOJS SOULS OUGFURMtTS‘FULCWO

JOY RIEHJOASPLYZNRW_ JRANSFORM

JUSTICE LDWVEFBEGEMTETIW UNITED DDAZLSGUGCVAFTE

LIFE UPLIFT GGHVSNCQHTDWITIG

LIGHTEN JYQcBAVJVIKBLNW WORLD

PEACE MRP V Y RTBNNZM UG I WRITINGS JcrIXWwTTGHGZVMST

Photo © Baha’ International Community v53.N3 & BrilliantStar 5 [Page 6]Ss

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“From the... Scriptures they should memorize phrases and passages... } as these holy verses are the most potent elixir...”

—Baha’u'llah

BOOST YOUR BRAINPOWER

o you ever feel like your brain is overloaded? That’s D how | felt memorizing words for my Spanish test! But my friend Jacob came over to study, and he said our memory storage is almost unlimited. Did you know our brains can store over 2 million gigabytes of information? That's like streaming TV shows nonstop for 300 years! Plus, our brains change and grow as we learn. So cool! We use short-term memory to store a little info for

MEMORIZING \S A SKILL YOU CAN GROW!

about 30 seconds, like remembering what to get from my room to do my homework. Long-term memories can last a lifetime—like when | fell off my bike and broke my leg. It took perseverance to stay positive while it healed!

Getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating healthy food can strengthen your memory. Games help too. Try out the fun games we played and boost your brainpower. They helped me do muy bien on my Spanish test!

_{ MEMORY MIND GAMES \ QUICK CHANGE TRAVELING TRAY ALPHABET STORY Players study a tray of 20 small =. items, then choose someone to be Furs 7 the Keeper and take the tray out way of the room. Set the timer for two rt \ ge minutes. Everyone writes down as a, 7a" { / oo many items as they can remember ih 2) » = from the tray. When the Keeper aa f \ Choose one person to leave the brings the tray back, whoever nth ie Ca L) room and change their appearance wrote the most correct items wins. One person begins a story with a in five ways (such as their hair, short sentence where the first word clothes, shoes, etc.). When that starts with A. The next person person returns, everyone guesses repeats this sentence and carries on what's different about them. Play the story, adding a sentence starting until each person has had a turn to with a B word. Continue through the adjust their appearance. alphabet. How far can you go? A) EXPLORE YOUR MENTAL POWERS > Scan the QR codes for fun ways to explore our amazing brains with Maya! QUIZ: MAYA'S ARE YOU HOPEFUL? TRANQUIL TIPS 6 Brilliant Star 53 N3 Spanish: Muy bien =Very well

[Page 7]re outside on a summer night, look at your _religions and beliefs in the world. Some people say their

porch or camp light. You might see moths flying around it. Some experts say they're actually looking for the Moon, because they use moonlight for navigation. Artificial lights confuse them

Like a moth using moonlight to guide its flight, we seek the light of spiritual truth in our journey to learn about life and our Creator. It can be hard to understand all the

faith is the only true path to God.

Baha‘is believe Messengers of all major religions offer paths to God, guiding people throughout history. While there are differences among religions, there are also similarities, such as teachings about prayer, fasting, and treating others kindly. When we explore all faiths with an open mind and heart, we can see the light of truth in every lamp.

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Thisisalso true for baby puffins. Se briliantstarmagazine.org/uploads/play/Pulins pat

Answers on page 28 [Page 8]Art for Oneness: Make a Paper Mandala

” —‘Abdu’l-Baha

oday at school, | had a super hard time focusing. peace. “Mandala” means “circle” in the Sanskrit language. T Some bugs in class were so loud, buzzing all It’s cool how mandalas are often created in circles. They around! | felt angry and anxious. Then in art class, can symbolize different things coming together as one. Mr. Hornet showed us an ancient art form called a Lots of materials can be used for mandalas, like carved mandala. The circular designs helped me feel calmer. stone, colored sand, or paint on cloth. Mr. Hornet helped We discovered that mandalas are used for meditation us make our own. Our whole class was into it! We put in Hinduism, Buddhism, and other religions and cultures. them up around the art room to remind us to play, fly, Looking at them can bring mindfulness or a feeling of and learn in harmony!

THIS CRAFT HELPS ME FEEL PEACEFUL AND CALM.

if You'll Need

S%"(15.cm) + white glue

thin pape ors printer paper » 5%" (Idem) circle colorful tissue of firm plastic from Paper food container * permanent markers + pencil « stickers or sequins + ruler + jumbo paper clip

scissors * clear tape

1 (A) To keep lines you'll draw later on back, start with 2 (A) Turn paper so front side facing up. Fold origami paper in half so longest edge faces corners meet. (B) Turn paper so longest edge is at left. you. Fold bottom Fold paper upward in half so corners meet. Unfold. right corner up

to meet center

crease. Unfold.

8 (B) Bring left edge of paper triangle iB) down to meet

previous step’s

crease. Pinch Try our IMAGINATION STATION 2 flat only top 2" drawing app on your tablet or desktop (13cm) to form

to create your own ideas or designs aan of to draw mandalas!

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“Do all in your power to be as one, to live in peace, each with the others...

8 Brilliant Star * v53.N3 [Page 9]3. (A) Fold right point of triangle up, so fold’s bottom starts at base of central crease. Press flat. Tip should extend past top of Step 2B’s crease. (B) Fold left point of paper

so its bottom edge meets right flap’s bottom edge. 7 (A) Cut off shaded parts of design. (B) Carefully

.B) open mandala and press flat. Place printer paper over it. Firmly rub side of pencil across it several times to smooth creases.

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4. Fold far right corner

of top flap to the

left, so its lower

edge meets paper's 8 Cuttissue paper into 1" (2.5 cm) pieces. Glue to left edge. plastic. Let dry. Glue back of mandala to

unpapered side of plastic. Trim plastic edges, if needed. Use markers, stickers, or sequins to decorate 5 Flip paper over. mandala with virtues and designs about unity. Fold left side so left edge meets paper's right edge.

6 (A) From top flap’s right corner, draw 3 arcs %4" (.6 cm) apart. Top arc should end even with left corner of flap that’s underneath two upper flaps. Shade areas above

second arc. (B) Below lower arc, draw paths of two 9 (A) Bend up inside curve of paper clip. Tape to back lines spaced %" (.6 cm) apart. Lines should touch lower of mandala for a stand. Spread out base of clip so arc and paper's left or right edge. Spaces between paths mandala stands up. (B) Now it’s ready to display!

should be about %" (.6 cm) apart. Shade between paths.

|

V53 N3 %& Brilliant Star [Page 10]a Wy) <4 ae CARE & REPAIR

pr “Rejoice not in the things ye possess; tonight they are yours, tomorrow others will possess them.”—Baha’u'llah IL

but when you crashed, the frame got scraped up look for a repair café, where people get together and help and the wheel got bent. Is it time to getanewone? —_ each other learn. When you fix stuff, you may develop Before buying a new bike, ask yourself some questions: new skills and meet new friends. You'll practice virtues Do | need a brand-new bike, or can this one be fixed? If! such as patience, moderation, and creativity. Then you'll

really be ona roll! —_—————n| ON. . af Fill in the blanks to complete tips for being creative and tesourcelul

Se eee Wows aN ie WHEN YOU PLAY OUTPOORS, <=> ISS > REPAIRING YOUR GEAR IS —_ TAKE TIME TO ENJOY THE WAV TOBET — ANK a

FOR WHAT YOU HAVE.

WO DE__ SOF NATURE.

A’ man! You've only had your bike for a few months, If you don’t know how to fix your bike, ask for help. Or

FOR JOY THAT REALLY ane PLAN FUN TIMES WITH __IEN___ SAND FAMILY.

SKATEBOARD | eS SORTS:

cei aac =e SS FING STUFF INSTEAD oF © — — . . < TOSSING IT IS ONE WAY TO FALL APART, TRY TO FOCUS D__N__ TE ITEMS YOU'RE NOT &, HELP CAREFOR A TH ~ ONTHEPO ITE USINE—THEY COULD BE JUST —*__ =

WHAT SOMEONE ELSE NEEDS! * ™

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\Vcetc FA We CAN AN ARO AT WITH PAINT ANZ OTHER 1 \ aa) LEARNING TO FIX THINGS GIVES o* S = X ' { SUPPLIES TO GIVE OLD YOUR CO FIVE __ CEA BOOST! > BEMIN FU__ OF THE TIME, MONEY, ANZ ( THINGS A NEW LOOK! “ \ > ENERGY IT TAKES TO FIND AND BUY NEW STUFF.

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RES_ONSI_LE Cana@g ROLLER SKATES | ‘ ~~ =e © eS

10 Brilhant Star %& v53 N3 Answers on page 28 [Page 11]Did you know floods are the most common natural hazard? They account for about 43%

of disasters worldwide—more

==axieg” than storms, earthquakes, and c wildfires combined! Wetlands,

such as ponds, mudflats, and swamps, can help

prevent flood damage—especially in cities. Like

a sponge, healthy wetlands soak up water and

store it, then release it slowly. We can help

protect wetlands when we visit them by staying on trails and cleaning up litter.

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

—_————-

EXPLoRE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AND

ITs CREATURES

Wetlands are home to over a million threatened

Fantastic Filters Wetlands filter pollution out of water. Eliminating litter supports this process. Put trash in the garbage or recycling bins and check for local wetland cleanup days.

including birds, frogs, and eels!

Dr. Hannah Cloke, a geographer in the UK., develops warning systems about floods and other hazards. She’s dedicated to sharing

her work widely, even using poetry. She says, “As scientists we have a responsibility to try everything ...to communicate what we know, the way that we see the world.”

In this ancient tort city built from 118 islands, people travel by boat and on foot. A grand canal runs through it, with hundreds of side canals and bridges. It’s known for its stunning art and architecture. Unscramble the letters to find its name:

NICEEV, TILYA

’

‘Answers on page 28. Dr. Hannah Cloke by Sarah Lambert-Gates; CHUNYIP WONG, Mara Unkefer, RudyBalasko, agustavop, all via Getty

The third largest cat, after lions and tigers, is the largest in the Americas. It can grow to 7 feet (2.1m) long and weigh 350 pounds (159 kg). It’s a powerful predator that can climb and swim. Fill in the blanks to find its name:

AG AR

V53 N3 w& Brilliant Star 11 [Page 12]PONT WM EVERYBODY FEELS ANXIOUS SOMETIMES.

‘to - | I,

il

ee TT bodies are amazing! When you sense danger, your

\

body starts the “fight, flight, or freeze” response. Your

heartbeat speeds up, and you breathe faster. That's your body sending oxygen and nutrients to your muscles so you can move quickly.

You may feel irritable and tense, like you want to “fight.” You might “freeze” and feel numb or spacey. The “flight” feeling makes you want to run away—not fly through the air! You might be restless or fidgety.

C1000 GATING

On a day with clouds in the sky, go outside and lie or sit on a blanket. Look up (but not directly at the sun). Take a deep breath and try to let go of stress. Breathe slowly as you view the wide sky above you. Notice its color and brightness. Look at the clouds. Check out their shapes, sizes, and colors. Can you see them move? They drift across the sky, just like thoughts glide in and out of our minds. Do the cloud shapes remind you of things? After five minutes or more, close your eyes and imagine yourself filled with peace.

SCAN FOR MORE MEDITATION TIPS AND POSES!

12 Brilhant Star *& Vv53 N3

LIGHTNING & LUNAS i

DITATION HIPS,

oo | v

\ : ‘a

| | | | THERE ARE LOTS OF ’ WAYS TO CALM VOWN.

We can have other reactions too. Some of our friends have headaches, dizziness, or trouble breathing. | sweat a lot, and my shoulders get tense. Luna gets a stomachache.

Some stress can be good. Sometimes the pressure of fighting the Erasers or doing a Justice Jam dance helps us focus and work hard. But if you feel “fight, flight, or freeze” all the time, it’s tough on your body and mind. Try our tips for getting calm when stress attacks. Peacefulness may become your superpower!

Find a quiet path about 20 feet long (6.1 m). For five minutes, walk back and forth on your path, super slowly. Try to notice all the sensations of walking. Pay attention to how it feels to lift each foot and place it down. How do your legs and arms feel as you move? At the end of the path, slowly turn, paying attention to each movement. If your mind wanders, that’s okay. Notice it, and gently bring it back.

FHERGY GAUL coy

Sit on the floor, close your eyes, andrub , 5 | your hands together super fast.Continue ;° | rubbing, faster and faster. When your |) hands are warm, stop! Keep your palms | | together. Imagine a tiny ball of light is | between your hands. Take a full breath in, and slowly separate your hands. Imagine your ball growing, filling you with energy. Then breathe out, and gently bring your hands together, making the ball smaller. For two minutes, keep expanding the ball as you inhale and squeezing it as you exhale.

[Page 13]Ride the Waves of Unity”

urf’s up! When life is going great, you might feel calm and balanced by practicing virtues like respect, like a surfer catching an epic wave. You're in patience, and mindfulness. Clear communication is key harmony with the tides and people around you. too. Share your thoughts and feelings with honesty. Try Everything flows smoothly. You feel on top of the world! to stay open-minded and listen to everyone's point of But when challenges arise, like arguing with a friend view. Disagreements aren't always bad. They can even or getting flooded with homework, it can feel like hitting strengthen your relationships when you work things out. rough water. How do you stay afloat? When we see the best in each other, we canallride —

It doesn’t help to get salty and upset. You can keep the waves of peace and unity!

Find nine hidden letters, then use them to complete the quote.

Letters found:

sou Ss a e as aves on t e sea 0 ou ea individua is a distin t ave, t

is one, a e united in od.’ —‘Abdu'l-Baha

Answers on page 28 V53 N3 w& Brilliant Star 13 [Page 14]AND YOUR ONE PUNY CUBE IS NO MATCH FOR ALL OF MINE!

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L WORKED? WITH THE ERASERS TO ATTACK POWER PLANTS SO I CAN CONTROL BIS CITIES.

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MAYBE HE

KNOWS ANOTHER, WAY OUT.

HOW VIP HE SET ALL HOSE CUBES?

SCAN FOR ALL EPISOVES

oo) ne OF LIGHTNING & LUNA [Page 15]HE'S GOT MORE CUBES. )

WE HAVE TO |/ STOP HIM!

~o wart’ © THE SUN 16 PHOTOPRINTING : I a AN Wier 0, PN & CONPUTER CHP! SVE eaten S READ ABOUT THIS. 11'S... : : is . | THIS 52 — THESE BEFORE: 3 J --- ANCIENT t oa UPLIFTER TECH! \s) 4

TO THAT LATER! WE HAVE TO STOP MIN!

Destroy |__ > rite, PS . rt \ THE UPLIFTERS WE'LL GET | CAN'T BEAT MY

CUBEDRONES!

AND ONCE YOU'RE GONE, I'LL RULE THE ERASERS—

ANP THE WORLD!

“See Episodes 57-67 at brilliantstarmagazine.org/artcles/lightning-tuna-havoc

V53 N3 w& Brilliant Star 15 [Page 16]Connect with kids around the world! How are they like you? How are they different? Each of us has a unique story to tell. What’s yours?

( Sanna J. Age: 10 Jj Hive in: Illinois, U.S. TK | want to be: Artist or doctor

This career interests me because

love painting and helping people.

Virtues | admire most: Radiance and kindness

I'm grateful for:

Playling] the piano well, my family, and my singing voice

Hobbies or sports: Piano and running

Favorite Baha’ activities: Doing crafts and talking with my friends

Places I'd love to visit:

The Philippines and Hawaii

A favorite food Barbecued chicken and halim (a Persian type of porridge)

A hero or role model:

My Auntie Christi

What helps me feel spiritual: When | pray and when | go to devotionals*

A question I'd ask God: How did you create us?

What fills me with awe: The beautiful stars, the eclipse, and the sunset

In 20 years, I'd like to see: a People not throwing garbage [on the ground] and not becoming couch potatoes

16 Wwe V53 N3

( Anis R.

( Daniel |.

Age: 14

I live in: Pennsylvania, U.S.

| want to be:

Working with my hands

or a park ranger

This career interests Le me because

Ifeel really happy when

[I'm]... learning how things are made and built.

Hobbies or sports:

Mountain biking, building go-carts, blacksmithing Favorite Baha’ activities: Children’s classes, my wy family’s dinner and devotions night, and Camp Tabarsi in Pennsylvania

A hero or role model: [Wildlife biologist] Clay Hayes, my uncle Ed, my parents

Age: 12 live in: Ohio, U.S.

| want to be: Singer/songwriter

This career interests

me because

Music is a way... to express myself, and | enjoy songs.

Virtue | admire most: Empathy

Hobbies or sports: Basketball, swimming, singing, and video games

Favorite Baha’ activity: * Junior youth camps

A question I'd ask God: What exactly happens when you die?

I'm grateful for:

1) Living in Pennsylvania, which is great for outdoor activities; 2) the ability

to build things; and

3) my friends

What fills me with awe: The infinity of the universe and how vastit is

In 20 years, I'd like to see: People taking care of the environment more, and more respect for nature

Place I'd love to visit Paris, France

Favorite animal or pet Dogs

A hero or role model: [Anti-slavery activist] Harriet Tubman

What helps me feel spiritual Praying

A question I'd ask God: What do! need to do?

I'm grateful for: My family, my eg friends, the gift of life

What fills me with awe: The ocean

In 20 years, I'd like to see:

The world creating an ever-advancing civilization for the generations to come (world peace, service, eliminating world hunger and prejudice)

“Devotionals are gatherings for sharing prayers, holy writings, and music. [Page 17]( Allen K.

Age: 11 Ilive in: Washington, U.S. | want to be: A snake breeder

and SWAT officer*

This career interests » me because:

The SWAT career because

I'd get to stop crime in the world, and the snake breeder because I'd get to raise snakes from babies and have the fun of watching them grow.

Virtues | admire most: Kindness, trustworthiness

Favorite Baha’ activity: Children’s class. | get to see some of my school friends

every Thursday at our

neighborhood class.

A hero or role model:

My big sister

Place I'd love to visit: Alaska

( RiverM. Age: 11 Ilive in: Oregon, U.S.

| want to be:

A Major League Baseball player

This career interests

me because:

Ilove sports, and | love to play baseball the most.

Virtue | admire most: Truthfulness

Favorite Baha’i activity: Junior youth activities

A hero or role model: My parents and Baha’u’llah

What helps me feel spiritual: Praying

¥

What fills me with awe: How the world works, such as how it has perfect conditions for us to live

%

What helps me feel spiritual: Praying

I'm grateful for:

Having a life on Earth, people | can be with, and awesome parents who allow me to have pets, especially a snake

What fills me with awe: Every fish species | catch fills me with awe! And also snakes.

In 20 years, I'd like to see: Dinosaurs hatch on Earth, and a device that can detect hackers

A question I'd ask God:

| would ask what it is like to die—what it feels and looks like...

I'm grateful for:

[Being] a Baha’i; having a great, loving family; and my health

In 20 years, I'd like to see: That people stopped wars and pollution, or we found away to quickly travel to another planet that could sustain human life

SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics officers are trained to handle high-risk situations.

¥

“God has crowned you with honor and in your

« A

hearts has He Set a radiant star; verily the light thereof shall brighten the whole world!”

—‘Abdu’l-Baha

( Sachika D. Age: 11 I live in: Georgia, U.S. | want to be: A veterinarian

This career interests

me because:

love animals and | want to help as many as | can.

Virtues | admire most: Kindness, generosity, truthfulness, patience

Favorite Baha’ activities: Teaching a children’s class on Zoom and [being in a] junior youth group. My Zoom class is very interesting, because it includes kids from Africa and... .Trinidad.

Ahero or role model:

My parents, teachers, and my cousin, Ashiya Didi, because they always help me in tough times, and they teach me new things every single day!

What helps me feel spiritual: Saying my prayers at night ... and also during times when | feel sad or mad

A question I'd ask God:

ls world peace possible?

Could we ever end the

suffering of other people? »

a

What fills me with awe: Everything in this universe ... Every turn | make, around every single corner, there is something new and exciting that! can learn about.

x

In 20 years, I'd like to see: Everyone living in peace, even the animals. This would fill my heart with love and joy!

1. If you're aged 7-14, scan the QR code with a smart phone's camera. Or go to brilliantstarmagazine.org id from the top menu, choose “Discover.” Click Become a Radiant Star or Trailblazer.” Or email us at brilliant@usbne.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.

PS

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!

”

V53 N3 w& Brilliant Star 17 [Page 18]x

( Evander P.

Age: 10

Ilive in: Virginia, U.S.

| want to be:

Astronaut. | want to be the first one to land on Neptune

or Europa (a moon of Jupiter).

This career interests me because: .f I would get to see all different types of planets and [be in] zero gravity.

Favorite Baha’ activities: Devotions, children’s class, and holy day celebrations

Ahero or role model: Spider-Man, because he saves people

In 20 years, I'd like to see: Europa, because it’s awesome and it could have snow

( Azizeh F. )

Age: 8 om

I live in: Minnesota, U.S.

This career interests y me because:

You can discover intricate stuff about the world.

Virtue | admire most: Unity

| want to be: Scientist

Favorite Baha'i activity:

Youth camp (I get to go with my mom and older brother and there are children’s activities)

Virtue | admire most: sai

Kindness

A question I'd ask God:

If He’ll help my mom deal with all the chaos my brothers and | cause and help her get all the things she needs

What fills me with awe: Shooting stars are awesome.

What helps me feel spiritual: Saying prayers and talking to God

Place I'd love to visit: Tonga

A hero or role model:

[Hand of the Cause of God]*

Dorothy Baker

What helps me feel spiritual: Prayer and listening to Stories from the Dawn-Breakers...

A question I'd ask God: Will! meet my relatives who have passed on before me?

I'm grateful for:

My nephews, [going on] pilgrimage, attending the dedication of the Baha’i House of Worship in Papua New Guinea

What fills me with awe: The ocean in Papua New Guinea and the northern lights in Minnesota

In 20 years, I'd like to see: Flying cars

18 Brilhant Star %& Vv53 N3

( Phil T.

(_ Eloise P.

Age: 8 I live in: Ohio, U.S.

| want to be: A professional horse trainer and equestrian

This career interests

me because: | love horses. They are gentle creatures I love to spend time with.

Virtues | admire most: Love and consideration

%

Hobbies or sports: Playing the piano and horseback riding

Ahero or role model: Ms. Betsy (my riding instructor)

What helps me feel spiritual: Prayers at bedtime with my family’s prayer candle, and being in the rain with my face toward the sky

¥

Age: 8

live in: North Dakota, U.S. | want to be:

An engineer es

This career interests me because: I love creating new things.

Virtue | admire most: Kindness

Hobbies or sports: Soccer

Favorite Baha’ activities:

as

Ayyam-i-Ha* celebration

Favorite animal: Jaguar (it is fierce and fast)

A favorite book:

The Dragon Masters series [by Tracey West]

A favorite food: * Bacon burger

What helps me feel spiritual: Prayers

Favorite Baha’ activities: Devotional game nights

A question I'd ask God:

What is the Abha Kingdom [the next world] like?

I'm grateful for: Mama, Daddy, and my sister, Dahlia

Place I'd love to visit: Kentucky

A favorite food: Chicken samosas

In 20 years, I'd like to see: Less pollution and horses everywhere!

Place I'd love to visit: Hawaii

A hero or role model: Uncle Stevo. He is kind, and he has a pure and radiant heart.

A question I'd ask God: Am | doing well on Earth?

I'm grateful for: My siblings, my parents, my shelter

What fills me with awe: The ocean

In 20 years, I'd like to see: Lower prices

A Hand of the Cause of God was someone appointed to teach and protect the Baha'i Faith,
Ayyim-i-Ha isa festival of hospitality, gift giving, and preparing for the Baha‘ Fast.

[Page 19]%E- (iil Fg CONSULTATION IS KEY f f ife is full of mysteries and adventures, but resolving an argument or planning a project. It includes keeping

how do you choose which to explore? your cool, listening, asking questions, and not being too attached Just like you'd need help to carry a heavy to your own ideas. Caring about and respecting each other is

chest, a big (or small) decision can get lighter when you one of the most important keys. talk with friends or family. Sharing different points of Speaking from the heart about things that matter can be tricky. “| view helps you find treasures of truth. With practice, you'll polish your skills. You may deepen your

Calm consultation is a key to all kinds of issues, such as. friendships too. Together, you can unlock secrets of consultation!

Answers on page 28 V53 N3 w& Brilliant Star 19 [Page 20]| SPATEALE fj) |

ASH A SPACE SCIENTIST

Our universe is fi ull of mysterie boggling are i teries, and some of the most mi ggling are in space. Curious kids sent questions, nd mine , and we

asked a NASA astro q Send them to ‘learn questions about space? Do astronauts play sports inspace? nc.org (with your name and _ Olivia, age 10 age). » 88 Hi, Olivia, What did you miss most from Earth when you We love to play games. Now, sometimes y y y

certain sports are tough to play, because they do rely on gravity. We might not playa whole game of tennis or ping-PON8

were in space for a longtime? — Emma, age 14

Hi, Emma,

| missed my loved ones. \missed my family, my partner, my little

or football, but we definitely can throw those things around. And let me tell

you, you can throw really, really far in microgravity. It's a lot easier. Andit's also very, very fun because it can goin almost

dog.| didn't really miss any things. | didn’t miss going to @ coffee shop, getting fancy things. That

st =

stuff doesn’t really do it for me. any direction.

But | definitely miss the people. We also can play human games

{And| also love nature. It NASA astronaut Christina Koch like human bowling, where your friend

wasn’t until the end of my voi 2 3D printeran the fis} like a cannonball, and you could just o . international Space Station in 2019. .

41-month mission that realized! throw them across the module if you

was missing nature. I missed the feeling of wind on my face. \missed want, because no one weighs anything.

the smell of the beach, and things like that. Things that only Earth Sowe have alot of fun in space.

can offer, and that we all love about our shared planet. —Christina —Christina

Christi . crstne Koch and Jessica Meir took the first an spacewalk in 2019. The official name

N S f p S ‘or astronauts’ work outside a spacecraft is: Ss

A) Extra Special RS Adventure (ESA) ° &) space 8 B) Extravehicular D) Space Stati Activity (EVA) Escape on)

Christina Koch (lefiy'andvessies Meir in 2019

20 Brilliant Star %& v53.N3

Answers on page 28 [Page 21]Hi, Sami,

It’s really wild how the human body adapts to space. | don’t know if you’ve ever done a headstand, but when you do, you kind of feel all the blood rushing up to your head. And that is how it felt for me when | first got to space. It felt like

| was doing a headstand the entire time. And so| had to focus on my work through that feeling and try to ignore it, but

CHRISTINA KOCH (pronounced “Cook”) became a NASA astronaut in 2013. She set arecord for the longest single spaceflight by a woman, with a total of 328 days in space. She also participated in the first all-female spacewalk. She is assigned to the Artemis Il mission to the Moon planned for 2025.

it was tough. It felt that way On the International Space Staton ON THE WEB for about a week straight. 2020, Christina Koch tries on ne sue as rf q the return to Earth. She says.” The most In our Space Ace video interviews, meet But luckily, your body does important thing that contributes to a two amazing astronauts at Dr. Scotti’s

adapt to microgravity. So after mission’s success is how well you STEAMS Station. about a week, all those weird interact with your crewmates.”

feelings kind of went away. LELAND MELVIN

And then itis just so much fun. It’s so much fun to float. You can jump up masapuoie lal aan . player and a NASA and be on the ceiling in two seconds. You can do flips. It’s really, really fun. astronaut. When And sleeping in space is really cool. It feels very peaceful. So there are a he went to space, lot of really cool sensations. —Christina it changed his perspective forever.

PEGGY WHITSON Mae Jemison, the first woman of was a NASA astronaut color to travel in space, was one of and the first female

commander of the

Christina’s role models. In addition

&

~~

N to eight days of space travel, Mae: SJ

S

Sy

International Space Station. She broke other records, too.

A) Appeared in a Star Trek episode B) Worked as a physician C) Heads a group aiming to send

people beyond our solar system Mae Jemison on the « Endeavour in 1992

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

D) All of the above

Photos: NASW/PL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS/Kevin M. Gill NASA/Tony Gray, sys Tim Powers; NASA; NASA/ESA/Hubble; NASA Johnson 53 N3 w& Brilliant Star 21 [Page 22]iT fa jae) N < O a <= 7)

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

A: Atrip with my mother and [older] brother. We started in Tihran and drove to three cities... Having my brother explain all the history was just magical... We went to Shiraz, to the House of the Bab.” | was maybe 10 years old. Just seeing my mom’s spirituality and the way she reacted as soon as we walked in—that was very special...

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

A: When | was six years old, my father passed away . ..| could feel the sadness, [and] we were poor ... The way | handled it was not to ask for anything.

22 Brilliant Star * v53.N3

Dr. Farzin Amzajerdian

to a country where you don’t know anyone. That’s what Farzin

Amzajerdian did when he left Iran for the U.S. at age 18.

Born in Tihran in 1957, Farzin was the youngest of four brothers. His dad passed away, and to make a living, his family turned the ground floor of their house into an appliance store. For a time, they all lived in two cramped rooms upstairs. After high school, Farzin went to college in Iran for a year.

Due to increasing religious persecution, many Bahd’is left the country if they could. In 1976, Farzin moved to the U.S. to continue college. He earned a doctorate degree in electrical engineering from Oregon Graduate Institute. At age 44, Farzin started working for NASA. In 2022, he won NASA's Invention of the Year award for his

Navigation Doppler Lidar system, which accurately and quickly judges a spacecraft’s speed and distance to the surface to help it land safely. Farzin lives in Virginia with his wife, Jida.

[° leaving home as a teenager and moving across the world

Q: Growing up, did you face prejudice as a Baha'i?

A: In elementary school, there were teachers who treated me differently. The behavior was subtle, but it was harmful... In 7th and 8th grade... had teachers who bullied me,

openly... They would give

me bad grades also. That made me actually study these subjects Atage 11, Farzin lived in Tihran with his mom and three older brothers. better than anybody else, so!

could get a passing grade.

Q: What experience from your youth set you on a path to your career?

A: In school, my favorite subject was math, so | was good at it. | loved solving mathematical problems. When it came [time] to go to college, | heard that electrical engineering has a lot of math in it. [So] that’s [what] | wanted to do... Working for NASA wouldn't even [have occurred] to me. But I’m glad | ended up at NASA, because in high school, | must've seen every episode of Star Trek two or three times.

“Due to religious persecution, the House of the Bab was destroyed in 1979. Portraitby NASA Media Solutions [Page 23]Answers with an

Q: What do you do at NASA?

A: | specialize in lasers for measuring and monitoring the atmosphere from orbit. For example, greenhouse gases... or wind velocity ... So we can help with the weather forecast. The other area is to use lasers for going to the Moon, Mars, or other places in our solar system. These are especially needed to have a permanent presence on the Moon and Mars ... Having something that .. .| came up with... going to the Moon is an excellent feeling...

Q: What do you enjoy most about working for NASA?

A: The work we do... does help mankind. The goal is to help life here on Earth and to improve our understanding of the universe— where we come from and why we are here... Understanding is important, because it helps [with] how to live with each other here on Earth.

Photos: Top by Farzin Amzajerdian, bottom by NASA Langley Research Center

Above: Farzin and his wife, Jida, met at the

Los Angeles, California, Bahai Center in the 1980s.

Left: NASA Langley's Navigation Doppler Lidar team watches a lander touch down safely on the Moon.

Q: What's your advice for kids who want a career in engineering or science?

A: Develop interest in science and math .. . Once you get to middle school and high school, take as many advanced classes as you can in... science and math in particular. [Also], be curious about how things work around you. Especially with the Internet, you can actually explore, and that [can] be a

fun activity.

Q: This issue of Brilliant Star is about the powers of the soul. What's important for kids to understand about their soul?

A: When we say soul, it’s like that inner force that we have. The power of your soul can fuel passion. .. Itis positive. Be passionate, because passion will bring excellence—in your conviction to your faith ... the sport you play, and eventually, excellence in your profession and career.

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

A: To have the opportunity to help mankind. Kids can grow up and take different professions, and they're all good, they're all valuable .. . [and] contributing to society . .. There are challenges that we have in our world that can endanger mankind . .. To overcome these challenges, the solution can only be global. .. Human beings have to elevate their understanding of each other [and] the planet... The only solution can be spiritual—through the heart, through love of mankind.

V53 N3 w& Brilliant Star 23 [Page 24]EAT

BE YOURSELF!

eye 7{ here’s a new bird at our school named Shona. She's really cool

and has a super squawky laugh. | love it, and it makes me laugh too! She wears these fun necklaces she makes from seeds. But some birds teased her and said the seeds look like dried-up dinner! So rude — it really ruffled my feathers.

But guess what?

Shona just laughed!

RS

“| feel peaceful and happy. When my brain and my heart are in unity, I'm not afraid to express myself.”

Shona said when we're more authentic, we have richer friendships

and stronger self-esteem. It’s

easier to stay positive in ry

tough times, too.

That reminded me of when a bird teased me in third grade about my flowered backpack.

lasked her how she just smiled and told keeps her cool. wi her it reminded me of my “[try to be authentic,” : grandma's garden. That took

she said. “That's staying true to yourself, no matter what other birds think. It's okay if some birds don’t like me or my necklaces. My true friends

her by surprise!

Being yourself can take courage sometimes. Some people may not like you, and that’s okay. What's important

support me.” is that you like yourself! Check out

“But how do you know when these tips Shona and | came up with you're being true to yourself?” | about being authentic. | hope they asked her. help you keep it real too!

CURIOSITY CANOPY

ant to get to know yourself better? Try journaling! Writing down your thoughts and experiences can reduce stress and help you understand your emotions, hopes, and dreams. Start small, and write a few good things that happen each day.

24 Brilliant Star % v53.N3

6R

, - ~ 4 De, oe) or AINFOREST _ ~ a ty “Send down...from the clouds of Thy + mercy the rains of Thy healing...” —Baha’u'llah

EXPLORE & SOAR: BE TRUE TO YOU

Try these tips and dare to be different!

+ Make alist of virtues that are important to you, like kindness, humor, or honesty. Choose one to focus on each week.

+ Slow down and make sure your decisions fit with your true self. It’s okay to say “no” to something that doesn't feel right.

+ Be brave and speak your mind with respect and courtesy. You may encourage others to speak up too!

+ Be curious and learn new things that excite you, even if they're not popular with others.

+ Ask yourself if you're hiding some of your thoughts or feelings. Why? How can you express them in healthy ways?

+ Be kind to yourself. No one is perfect! Do your best and try to learn from your mistakes.

Photos: journal by Olga_Z/Getty, musicby Peoplelmages/Getty [Page 25]Ca: who live in gooey mudflats by the ocean are these wetlands. They use superpowers like cooperating,

superheroes of survival. They have to be ready for hiding, or even glowing to stay safe.

anything! The soil, a soupy mix of sand and clay, is always Like these mudflat marvels, when you get swamped shifting. Twice a day, the animals’ homes are covered by _— with challenges, you can use your own powers. If your team water at high tide. At low tide, they’re in the hot sun or cool is losing a game, encourage each other and work together. night air. And there's always a hungry seabird or crab looking _!f you're bogged down learning tough music, buoy yourself for a snack! with positivity and persistence. Whatever your challenge, Tiny animals such as snails, worms, and clams thrivein _ your amazing virtues are shore to help you come out on top!

Fun fact: Some of these animals don't really have eyes. Do you know which ones? 4

Ican bury myself 30 inches (76 ‘m) in the mud, but no worries! | can go six days without oxygen!

One of my clawsis giant! | wave it to geta females attention or tell

others to back off!

Iman escape artist! My long, narrow shell and I live in a tube and can ooze strong foot help me burrow glowing blue slime that may hide. | can swallow sand quickly to safety. warn predators to stay away! to weigh myself down.

‘Answers on page 28

V53 N3

PARCHMENT § TUBE WORM

Atlow tide, | use my special door to seal myselfin my shell, sol won't dry out.

We stick together to survive the strong waves. We build big, rock-like reefs with our shells.

Brilliant Star 25 [Page 26]T here were no mobile phones, computers, or electricity in Chester Kahn's life when he was growing up. With no running water, the family filled water barrels at a natural spring and loaded them on a wagon to bring home.

Chester and his brother, Franklin, had an important job* They herded sheep and kept the flock safe from coyotes and mountain lions. They helped lambs, rams, and ewes find enough to eat. Sheep provided clothing and delicious food for the family. Meals were cooked over an open fire.

During long days in the canyons of Arizona, when the sheep were settled, Chester and Franklin used charcoal from their fire to draw on the canyon walls. It was here that Chester began to develop his skills as an artist. He and his family spent their lives close to nature. These memories of Chester's childhood were sweet.

Then, at age 12, Chester was sent away to a US. government boarding school 1,000 miles (1,609 km) from home. His parents knew education was important, but they missed their kids terribly. Chester's memories of his school days were bitter. He was discouraged from speaking the Navajo language and exploring the religion of his people. After he finished school, he learned all he could about the Navajo way of life.

Chester's grandfather, Jack Kahn, was a Navajo medicine man who carried out ceremonies. When Chester was in his twenties, Jack learned about the Baha'i Faith and shared it with his family. They all

26 Brilliant Star %& v53.N3

became Baha'is. In 1982, Chester was elected to the National Spiritual Assembly, the governing council for U.S. Baha’is. He served for seven years. While serving the Faith, Chester worked as a painter, illustrator, and silversmith. He traveled widely and spoke about Navajo culture, art, and spirituality. He designed log buildings, including a circular structure known as a prayer hogan, at the Native American Bahai Institute in Arizona. “Praying is very, very important, because that's the way you communicate with what we call the Great Spirit. And by praying,” Chester said, “He listens to us and hears our prayers and helps us.”

Living Treasure

As his career developed, Chester won awards, including being named an Arizona Living Treasure in 2011. One of his biggest projects was a mural called the “Circle of Light,” in Gallup, New Mexico. It shows 65 Navajo people who contributed to the community, including artists, musicians, lawyers, educators, tribal leaders, athletes, and scientists. After many years of service and creativity, Chester passed away in 2019 at age 83. The Universal House of Justice, the Faith's global governing body, wrote, “His dedicated efforts to diffuse the teachings of the Faith among Native Americans are remembered with warm admiration.” The National Spiritual Assembly praised his artistic skills as well as his work as “a devoted Baha'i, firmly committed to the Faith's vision of a peaceful and just world civilization founded on the... truth that the human family is one.”

“Learn about Franklin Kahn: briliantstarmagazine.org/articles/shining-lamp-franklin-kahn-1934-2010 [Page 27]&

ere SEA TURTLE

4

When it's time tolay 9g, these creatures swim thousands of miles back to their birthplace using Earth's magnetic fields.

@)

Eventhough they're about the weight of a paper clip, these creatures can travel 3,730 miles (6,000 km) to migrate

for the winter! oO)

pH

Some navigate by using Earth's magnetic fields. Others use the position of the Sun, Moon, sound waves, and even the stars in the night sky!

Like animals’ incredible abilities to map their journeys, we can tune into our spirits to navigate life. If you feel lost or overwhelmed, things like prayer, meditation, and assisting others can help to light your way. With your virtues and faith as your guides, your life can be a brilliant journey!

\ STUART & GABRIELLA: FOLLOW YOUR COMPASS

ey, Stuart and Gabriella here! We've been visiting some animal friends with

amazing navigation skills. Did you know that lots of creatures can find their way home, even over thousands of miles? It’s like they have an internal GPS!

Match each animal to its fascinating fact.

ROCK DOVE 5 — HUMPBACK WHALE ma’ One of Earth's largest mammals, these it lent , coe sed since anciel

creatures sing and use soundwaves to ene task mn Itcanfly 600 navigate and communicate with others times to dev A nd reach speeds

ies (966 kn) naday and reach $P of their kind. miles ( hy!

as ce

During migration, these animals navigate by the stars, using the North Star for reference, They're named for their striking color.

©)

Images: krugli CreativeNature_nl, JEROMEGAN, Helen Davies, Craig Lambert, hstiver, Nautilus Creativ, all via Getty

‘Answers on page 28

These animals use echolocation (sounds echoing off objects) to create amental map of their area, find food, and recognize friends in the dark.

V53 N3 w& Brilliant Star 27 [Page 28]COSMO’S CORNER

ACROSS

28

od

HOW ARE YOU SO GOO? AT EXPRESSING YOURSELF?

o_o I UNLOCK MY TRUE FEELINGS!

Find Cosmo the Chameleon’s clues throughout the magazine.

2. There are many similarities among religions, such as

prayer, fasting, and treating others -(p.7) 4. Your soul is your inner self. (p. 2) 7. Virtues like honesty and kindness are and can

have a powerful impact. (p. 3)

8. Chester Kahn designed a round log building known as a prayer .(p. 26)

10. Anis, Azizeh, and Phil are all filled with awe by the . (pp. 16-18)

11. Moths use light from the

to navigate. (p. 7) (p.27)

14. Consultation includes keeping your cool, asking questions, and not being too attached to your own .(p. 19)

change and grow as we learn. (p. 6)

12. We can tune into our spirits to navigate

16. Our

FROM OUR MAILBOX

[Brilliant Star] makes me feel happy. It is a fun magazine full of prayers and fun activities. | also really like Lightning and Luna. | have learned about Baha’i followers and about Manifestations of God... [For a theme] | would like it to be about helping and supporting the Faith. —Daniel S., age 12, California, U.S.

Brilliant Star #%& v53.N3

\

1. When you're stressed, gazing at the as you breathe deeply may help you calm down. (p. 12)

3. Time in

can ease anxiety, boost happiness,

and strengthen your connection to the world around

you. (p. 29) 5. Eloise and Sanna both like to play the (pp. 16-18) 6.A is a circular design often used for meditation. (p. 8) 8. Lots of creatures can find their way over

thousands of miles. (p. 27)

9. Farzin Amzajerdian says to overcome the world’s challenges, the solution can only be .(p. 23)

13. NASA astronauts Christina Koch and Jessica Meir made the all-woman spacewalk. (p. 20)

15. At a repair cafe people help each other broken items. (p. 10)

ANSWERS

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

Page 3: Scroll at CR, cape at CL, fruit at far TR, horn at C, crown at BL, wand at TR, flask at BR, orb at TL, lantern at CL

Page 7: 1) curious, 2) explore, 3) humble, 4) listen, 5) learning, 6) respect, 7) service, 8) prayer, 9) unity.

Page 10: 1) Believing, wonders; 2) Sincere, friends; 3) Grateful, thankful; 4) Optimistic, positive; 5) Fair, donate; 6) Patient,

Earth; 7) Balanced, creative; 8) Trusting, confidence; 9) Responsible, mindful

Page 11:Venice, Italy; Jaguar

Page 13: Cat CL, Fat TL, Gat farTR, Hat BC Lat CR, Pat BC, Rat BL, Wat TL, Y at TR.

“Your souls are as waves on the sea of the spirit; although each individual isa distinct wave, the ocean is one, all are united in God.”

Page 19:"The heart is like a box, and language is the key. Only by using the key can we open the box and observe the gems it contains”

Pages 20-21: B) Extravehicular Activity (EVA); D) All of the Above

Page 25: A) 6,B) 5, C) 7,D) 4, E)3,F)8,G)1, H) 2;1,2, 3, 8 don't have complex eyes. Page 27: A) 4, B) 6, C) 5, D) 2, E) 1, F)3 Page 29: Cats at TC, TR, CR, BC, CL, C [Page 29]: () A “Fy al MAZE. y PEACEFUL PATHS VenTiIRan

ith colorful koi fish, flourishing greenery, andtrickling _ in the gardenis thoughtfully placed to encourage relaxation (|

‘3

streams, a Japanese garden is a peaceful place to and contemplation. soothe your soul. These meditative spaces are rooted in the love Did you know that time in nature can ease anxiety, boost of nature that's part of Japanese culture. Often, water, rocks, happiness, and strengthen your connection to the world around and plants are carefully arranged in harmony with each other. you? It can also speed up healing and lengthen your life! Water may embody reflection and the flow of life. Rocks can Take a quiet stroll outside and focus on happy memories,

represent stability or symbolize landforms, like mountains and _or soak up the sights, sounds, and scents. Mindfulness and islands, From stepping stones to cherry trees, each element fresh air can help you smoothly navigate your path in life.

PDX NGCMIZANSOS { “ill iti Tr aaa a by Japanese gardens, guide the friends to the Pavilion of Peace.

FIND SIX CALM CATS IN fi THE GARDEN!

V53 N3 w& Brilliant Star 29 [Page 30]Brilliant Star Power of Your Soul + Vol. 53 No. 3 AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES