its not a short cut.., thats how its done. as i said you cant put a point light inside a sphere (lamp shader) and call it the correct way.., maya is not the 'real world'???

you will need advanced shading techniques for inner and out glow.., from a 'lamp.'

do a google for what you are looking for.., if its possible it will be on u tube.., maybe i just dont understand what you want.

someone else might be able to help.., didnt strider mention translucency..?? look at the sliders on your materials AE.., the one below colour