-
Donate
The work of This I Believe is made possible by individuals like you. Please consider making your tax-deductible contribution today.
-
Essay of the Week
Will Thomas had planned to give up on America and move to Haiti after putting up with decades of bigotry and injustice toward African Americans. Then he decided to give the country one more chance, moving his family to an all-white town in Vermont. Click here to read his essay.
-
Special Features
Published August 25, 2017
Poetry can be an expression of love, a processing of grief, or a way to freeze a moment in time. Whether a sonnet, a haiku, or free verse, it is a distillation of language that reveals the very essence of an idea or emotion. We invite you to click the links below to read how these essayists have found their beliefs in poetry.
The Sounds of Silence
Published August 11, 2017
Most of us are constantly exposed to noise every day: ringing phones, passing traffic, and chattering people. But one thing we rarely hear in our modern world is silence. Click on the links below to read why these essayists believe silence is golden.
Family Members In Military Service
Published August 2, 2017
For many, there is a tremendous pride that comes from having a family member serve in the military. At the same time there can be heartache, loneliness and a constant fear for the safety of that son or daughter, sister or brother, father or mother who is stationed far, far away. Click the links below to explore the beliefs of those who have stayed at home while a loved one is serving their country.
Our Animal Companions
Published July 18, 2017
It’s hard to beat the friendship of a loyal pet. Whether a big, old dog, or a spunky, young kitten, or some exotic species, a relationship with a beloved pet can be as deep and fulfilling as anything we can experience. Click the links below to read how special animals inspired belief in these essayists.
Classical Music Stars of the 1950s
Published June 30, 2017
For the original version of This I Believe, host Edward R. Murrow invited a number of classical music artists to share their beliefs. Their essays reach beyond their profession to explore their thoughts about the world of the 1950s. Click the links below to hear what these musicians had to say.
Tell the Kids
Published June 3, 2017
Many parents can remember a specific moment when they had the thought, “What do I tell the kids?” Whether it’s talking about death and illness, dating and sex, or “bad guys” in the world, deciding when and how to talk to children is a delicate balancing act every parent must perform at one time or another. Click below to read essays based on a belief in being honest with children.
For You, Mom
Published May 13, 2017
This week, we honor mothers everywhere—new mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, adoptive mothers, and mothers-in-law. The mother-child relationship is one of the most powerful and complex of relationships, and the following essayists have found that having a mother or being a mother inspires the deepest of beliefs.
The Wisdom of Our Elders
Published May 8, 2017
Whether it’s a grandparent or neighbor, we have all learned to respect our elders. But do we listen to them and learn from their years of experience? To honor those seniors who inspire us and shape us, we present this selection of This I Believe essays. In their words and voices, you’ll hear the thoughtful wisdom that comes from living a long and fruitful life.
Nobel Prize Winners
Published May 1, 2017
Now that Bob Dylan has finally picked up this year’s Nobel Prize in literature, we revisit essays written by previous Nobel laureates. From winners of the Peace Prize, to honorees in the sciences and literature, these essayists offer thought-provoking views on their lives and the world.
Best Friends
Published April 9, 2017
They keep our secrets, challenge our thinking and sometimes frustrate us terribly. But best friends are the people we know we can count on to be there with us through good times and bad. Click the links below to read how these essayists found their beliefs in a relationship with a special friend.