Some may choose to dwell on the unfortunate evils of existence, but others — these writers among them — prefer to note the essentially good and decent side of humanity. Whether it be found in the simple gesture of holding a door open for someone or the gracious admittance of a stranger in need into one’s home, these individuals manage to find decency in many places, even unlikely ones (compiled by This I Believe intern Colin Hanna).
The hot, thick air of summer provides the perfect breeding ground for thunderstorms. And in the driving rain and brilliant lightning, some people find the flash of inspiration. Click the links below to read what these essayists believe about summer storms.
What do parents hope to teach their children? Not the “sit up straight” or “eat your vegetables” messages, but the deeper lessons for a life well-lived. Click the links below to read the messages these parents are passing from one generation to the next.
It’s amazing the effect that one simple act of kindness can have both on the giver and the receiver. Greeting a stranger with “hello” or letting a fellow driver merge ahead of you may not change the world, but it can make living in that particular moment more pleasant.
At times of loss, feelings of grief can be overwhelming. But from the crucible of that pain, we can learn more about ourselves, and about how we want to continue living in the world. Click the links below to read what these essayists discovered about the grief they experienced.
Thousands of teachers across America have asked their students to write This I Believe essays. In the process, many of those teachers have written their own statements of belief. In spite of the challenges, these educators say teaching is more than a job: it is a calling, a gift and the source of unwavering belief. Click the links below to read what they believe.
They work long hours performing tasks many of us wouldn’t want to do. They are present during moments of tragedy and joy. And, when we need medical care, they are often the first and last people we see. Click the links below to explore the beliefs of nurses in hospitals, in battle, and at school.
For thousands of years, men and women have chosen to become healers. Some of them have chosen to take the Hippocratic Oath and become physicians. Below, you will find essays from several of them, including some from the 1950s This I Believe series.
Spring is here and all over the country, gardeners are beginning to start planting their gardens, or at very least start planning what they are going to plant. But more than flowers and vegetables emerge from the soil. Beliefs can grow there, too. Click the links below to read how gardening has inspired these essayists.
Is there such a place? What is it like, and who might be there? Questions about heaven have occupied the minds of people for generations. In pondering these questions many of our essayists have found a belief that brings them hope and comfort. Click the links below to explore a sampling of thoughts about heaven.
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.
