In the heated debates over political policy, it’s easy to forget that America is largely a nation of immigrants. For those who came to this country from distant lands generations ago, to the recently naturalized citizen, the American dream is a powerful draw for people around the world. Click the links below to learn the beliefs that immigration has inspired in these essayists.
A number of prominent African-Americans were featured on Edward R. Murrow’s original This I Believe radio series. Their words helped build momentum for the civil rights movement in the years leading up to the Montgomery bus boycott, lunch-counter sit-ins and the march on Washington. Perhaps their wisdom can be useful today. Click the links below to hear their inspiring words.
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the men and women who have died while in military service. To honor the memory of those who have served and sacrificed, we offer this collection of essays that explore the importance of remembering those who have served their country.
In honor of mothers everywhere, we present these essays about the mother-child relationship. From the simple conversations of everyday life, to the greatest challenges a parent can face, motherhood inspires a wealth of beliefs. Click the links below to explore this sampling.
The celebration of quinceañera is a tradition among people of Latin American heritage that marks a 15-year-old girl’s transition from childhood to womanhood. The festivities can include a religious ceremony, elaborate gowns and tuxedoes, a lavish party, and a special dance of the quinceañera and her court. Such a major turning-point in a young girl’s life can evoke a range of emotions and inspire a number of beliefs, as you’ll read in the essays below.
As many of us are homebound these days, we may feel more connected with our neighbors as we get out to take a walk, or perhaps work in the yard. In conversations over the back fence, helping to celebrate important milestones, and in looking out for one another, neighbors are the building blocks of a community. Click the links below to learn the importance of neighbors to the lives of these essayists.
Most everyone says they’re for justice even if we can’t always agree on what exactly constitutes it. Is justice best defined morally or legally? How much is it rooted in fairness and equity? Who deserves it and who dispenses it? Click the links below to read how these essayists struggled with these questions as they developed their beliefs.
Students all over the world are learning in a new way this spring, with their teachers appearing on their screens instead of in front of the classroom. Many are using This I Believe as a writing exercise, as have tens of thousands of other educators over the past fifteen years since we first introduced our educational curricula. Click the links below to read a sampling of what their students have written.
We are all of us struggling to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe and sane during this crisis. Some are turning to gardening, long walks, making music, art, or writing. Some are spending their time making useful things for others, such as face masks. The following essayists have found that sometimes significant challenges turn out to be opportunities in disguise.
As all of us the world over are homebound, concerned about the future, it can be a good time to contemplate gratitude amid the worry and uncertainty. Click the links below to read how these essayists feel about finding happiness with what they have.
The late General Colin Powell believed America today is similar to the one that welcomed his immigrant parents 80 years ago—a country based on openness, freedom and Democracy for its citizens and visitors. He passed away October 18, 2021. Click here to read his essay.
