Faith
Adler, Irene R.
Irene Adler discusses the importance of faith in her personal life and in society and explains why it gives her self-confidence to succeed and also why it enables people to work together in society.
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– Other Themes: New York – Other, Under 30
Allen, Florence Ellinwood, 1884-1966
Florence Allen explains her worry over the “deterioration of the human spirit” and her belief that faith and intelligence and the fair application of law may restore the human spirit and through law create a peaceful planet.
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– Other Themes: Ohio, 60 and over, Women in Politics, Law, & Business, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Allen, Raymond B. (Raymond Bernard), 1902-1986
Raymond Allen describes the impact his family had on teaching him responsibility and other beliefs such as the necessity of family and describes the beliefs he holds close, such as the importance of kindness, the perfectability of man, the need for faith and freedom to worship, and the value of creativity.
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– Other Themes: California, Educational Professions
Almy, Doris E.
Doris Almy explains how her trust in the omnipotence of God and the reestablishment of her faith allowed her to overcome her fears and anxiety, and discusses her belief in kindness and education as a relief from anxiety in the lives of others.
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– Other Themes: Massachusetts, Educational Professions, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy
Alschuler, Rose H. (Rose Haas), 1887-1979
Rose Alschuler describes the many essential beliefs she would like to impart to her children and adds that it is important for people to act on their beliefs in order to improve one’s political and social life and remove cynicism.
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– Other Themes: Illinois, 60 and over, Educational Professions, Publishing and Writing Professions
Andrews, T. Coleman (Thomas Coleman), 1899-1983
T. Coleman Andrews describes his belief that life is given by God and comes with a “sacred trust” to act with integrity and responsibility, and that we must remember the divinity of life to avert catastrophe.
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– Other Themes: Virginia, Banking and Finance Professions
Beitzel, George B.
George Beitzel describes the need for the individual to live a Christian life and how this will result in greater peace and happiness throught out the world.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Business Professions
Bennett, Charles E., 1910-2003
Charles Bennett explains the importance of loyalty in Congress and in combat and also believes that individuals must repent for one’s sins and develop strong faith to make the world a peaceful place.
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– Other Themes: Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Besse, Ralph M., 1905
Ralph Besse explains that he believes in God because it is the only explanation that makes sense of the world to him, and states that it is important to know God personally and work toward achieving God’s purposes.
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– Other Themes: Ohio, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Binder, Carroll, 1896-1956
Carroll Binder relates his personal tragedies and the principles he relies on to avoid cynicism and maintain the enjoyment of life through adversity.
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– Other Themes: Minnesota, Journalism or Communications Professions
Bird, Remsen Du Bois, b. 1888
Remsen Bird explains that though there are many problems in the world which challenge his convictions, he nevertheless believes that God brings truth, beauty, and righteousness into the world, acting through those individuals who show love and care for others.
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– Other Themes: California, 60 and over, Educational Professions
Bixler, Julius Seelye, 1894-
Julius Bixler explores the tension between faith and reason and explains why skepticism falls short in comparison to faith and experiences like love, friendship, family and the goodness of people.
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– Other Themes: Maine, Educational Professions
Blake, Harry J.
Harry Blake describes a conversation with his sons in which they discuss the need for faith, hope, and charity to attain a successful and happy life.
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– Other Themes: Massachusetts
Borton, Elon G.
Elon Borton envies his fathers unwavering faith in God and explains his own evolving faith in God; that He has a plan and a purpose for everyone.
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– Other Themes: Illinois, Advertising Professions
Boulding, Kenneth E. (Kenneth Ewart), 1910-199
Kenneth Boulding explains that as a Quaker and an economist he understands that pure scientific knowledge is important but meaningless if unaccompanied by an appreciation for the intuitive and spiritual side of life, which he experiences through prayer and contemplation.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Michigan, British Nationality, Immigrants/Immigration, Educational Professions
Boushall, Thomas C.
Thomas Boushall describes how, despite diagnoses to the contrary, he survived both mastoiditis and tuberculosis, and developed the belief that his life was a gift to be used to serve God and others.
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– Other Themes: Virginia, Disability and Illness, Banking and Finance Professions, Business Professions
Brewster, Neal
Neal Brewster uses the Parable of the Talents to describe his belief that he must live his life to the fullest, pursuing friendships rather than material wealth.
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– Other Themes: New York – Other, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Bristol, Lee Hastings, 1892-1962
Lee Bristol describes his belief in the individual, the individual’s role in achieving peace and acquiring happiness through humor, service to others, and faith.
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– Other Themes: New York – New York City, Business Professions
Bryan, Julien Hequembourg
Julien Bryan describes his early religious beliefs and the transformation, as a result of his experiences in WWI and filmaking, that led him to his belief in the common goodness of all people around the world.
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– Other Themes: Arts or Entertainment Professions
Burckel, William Garrett
William Bruckel talks about his adversity, tragedy and faith, particularly how the tragic loss of his daughter galvanized his faith in God.
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– Other Themes: Connecticut, Manufacturing Professions
Burgess, Alex. M.
Alex M. Burgess defines belief as something which is accepted as fact, and describes his belief that the future depends upon the qualities of courage, kindness, generosity and self-sacrifice that he observes in those whom he encounters in his hospital work.
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– Other Themes: Rhode Island, Medical Professions
Carpenter, Ellen Waller
Ellen Carpenter describes her belief that prayer works and that the answer to the poverty and problems of the world is a spiritual one.
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– Other Themes: Illinois, Arts or Entertainment Professions, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy
Cleland, Robert Glass, 1885-1957
Robert Cleland describes a time in his life in which he was distraught and took a trip along the Colorado river with friends. The beauty he saw during the trip, Robert Cleland says, reinspired his life and faith.
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– Other Themes: California, 60 and over, Educational Professions
Cleveland, Harlan
Harlan Cleveland describes his beliefs as “ideas that I’m willing to do some thing about” and recounts the satisfaction he derives from helping others achieve basic needs such as justice, security, and a sense of achievement.
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– Other Themes: Publishing and Writing Professions, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Colwell, Robert
Robert Colwell describes his belief that a free society starts with personal responsibility, and he quotes theologian Martin Luther’s description of two kinds of faith–one can either hold beliefs that are passive or beliefs that lead to action.
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– Other Themes: New York – New York City, Advertising Professions
Connell, Arthur
Arthur Connell describes his belief that every human being has a purpose from God and the potential to do good, and that every circumstance happens for a reason, even the death of his only daughter.
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– Other Themes: Connecticut, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy
Curtiss, W. David
W. David Curtiss describes how his well-laid life plans were interrupted by WWII, and how the uncertainty of war taught him to accept change, not with resignation, but with a spirit of adventure.
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– Other Themes: New York – Other, Soldiers, Educational Professions
Dalley, Frank, 1913-1990
Frank Dalley recounts his experiences in the Korean War and how he relied on prayer for guidance and his determination to try to help others and relieve human suffering in whatever way he could.
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– Other Themes: Utah, Soldiers, Politics, Law, & Government Professions, Military Professions
Daniels, Jonathan, 1902-1981
Johnathan Daniels relates a story from his religious upbrining about the remarkable testimonials told in his religious community and explains that equality of all men before God is what drew him to the Episcopalian Church.
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– Other Themes: North Carolina, Publishing and Writing Professions, Journalism or Communications Professions
Day, J. Warren
J. Warren Day recounts how looking at ripples in a lake made him realize that all of his actions and life choices have consequences, and describes his belief that a life of service, especially in helping children learn about God, is the most unselfish and Christian life he can imagine.
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– Other Themes: Texas, Banking and Finance Professions
Day, George Martin
George Day describes his belief in the equality of all races, in the brotherhood of humanity, in a personal God, and in the potential for Russian and American peoples to live in harmony.
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– Other Themes: International Travel, Humanitarian Aid, and Diplomacy, Educational Professions, California
Dearborn, Ned H. (Ned Harland), 1893-1962
Ned Dearborn talks about the importance of faith in overcoming adversity and describes the many things in which he places faith, such as religion, the goodness of people, himself, and he concludes by describing his faith in faith itself.
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Dodge, Dora Estelle
Dora Dodge talks about her work with the girls club and the importance of planning and faith.
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– Other Themes: Massachusetts, Educational Professions
Dodineau, Arthur
Arthur Dodineau talks about the foundational experiences he had as a boy growing up on a farm in rural Michigan, and his faith in teachers, religion and the future of the United States.
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– Other Themes: Michigan, Agriculture and Farming, Educational Professions
Domich, Dain J.
Dain Domich describes how momentos from his work with the Junior Commerce (a Bible and American flag) remind him of his belief that faith in God is what provides meaning to life, and his belief in American freedom and democracy.
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– Other Themes: California, Children of Immigrants, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy
Douglas, William O. (William Orville), 1898-1980
Justice Douglas explains his father’s last words and why faith, like his father’s, is necessary to ensure freedom and guide people and nations through difficult times.
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– Other Themes: Washington, D.C. – Other, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Dowd, Thomas B., 1902-1976
Thomas Dowd proudly describes the difficulties endured by his mother and the enduring spirit, faith and dignity she displayed throughout her life as well as his determination to emulate the character of his mother.
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– Other Themes: Massachusetts, Sports Professions
Duveen, Charles
Charles Duveen, Jr. describes his experience of being shot from a plane while flying over the Pacific durinig WWII, and how his perspective on life changed from one which placed value in material objects to one which found value in service to others.
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– Other Themes: New York – New York City, Soldiers, Publishing and Writing Professions
Epstein, Benjamin R.
Benjamin Epstein describes the faith in people he had as a child and how he lost it after studying abroad in Nazi Germany and how he again regained it after his return to the United States.
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– Other Themes: New York – New York City, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy
Evans, Edith, Dame, 1888-1976
Edith Evans describes how she believes that good is stronger than evil, that following Christ’s command to love God and one’s neighbors will bring about a better world, and that fear of war and social chaos can be answered by relying on the power of good to overcome.
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– Other Themes: 60 and over, British Nationality, Arts or Entertainment Professions
Evans, Harold
Harold Evans recalls his relationship with Count Bernadotte who was assassinated while a Mediator on a U.N. peace keeping effort, and compares him with President Abraham Lincoln as two men with conviction, faith and integrity and examples of the type of individuals people can look up to to create prosperity and peace in the world for everyone.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Fagg, Fred D. (Fred Dow), 1896-1981
Fred Fagg recalls a moment when his life was saved by a handhold at the edge of a cliff and uses this story to explain the importance of his own “spiritual handholds.”
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– Other Themes: California, Educational Professions
Farooki, Nazrat
Nazrat Farooki recalls her father’s and grandfather’s constant search for knowledge and how she now shares this passion. She also adds why she believes that learning and understanding can lead to peace and security in the world.
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– Other Themes: Middle Eastern and North African Nationality, Arts or Entertainment Professions, Educational Professions
Fineman, Irving, b. 1893
Irving Fineman reads his poem, “For a Child” and explains why he feels it is a parents duty to create a better world and why to do so one needs science and faith together.
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– Other Themes: Vermont, Publishing and Writing Professions
Forbes, Alexander, 1882-1965
Dr. Alexander Forbes explains why science and religion are compatible; how science cannot understand everything in the universe; and the need for people and nations to begin cooperating rather than competing.
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– Other Themes: Massachusetts, 60 and over, Educational Professions, Mathematics and Science Professions
Fowler, Burton P. (Burton Philander), b. 1887
Burton Fowler states that the fundamental principles of his beliefs-God, Jesus Christ, and the brotherhood of humanity-derive from his early years on an upstate New York farm.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, 60 and over, Agriculture and Farming
Fox, Thomas P.
Thomas Fox describes his belief that one is happiest when serving others, and recounts the people in his life who shaped that belief.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Educational Professions, Medical Professions
French, Paul Comly, 1903-1960
Paul French remembers the lasting impression his mothers words, “You’ll never be able to fool thyself,” and “Take thy job seriously but never thyself” made on him and the affect these sentiments had on his life to obey his conscience, respect people and help others.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Journalism or Communications Professions
Gaither, Gant, 1884-1968
Gant Gaither describes his belief in his responsibility to serve God and others, his love for the underdog, and his responsibility to always do his best.
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– Other Themes: Kentucky, 60 and over, Medical Professions
Greene, Ward, 1892-1956
Ward Greene charts a timeline of faith through an individual’s lifetime-accepting as a child, intense as a young adult, and uncertain in middle age-and describes his beliefs in simple truths such as the Golden Rule.
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– Other Themes: New Jersey, Arts or Entertainment Professions, Publishing and Writing Professions, Journalism or Communications Professions
Griffith, Ivor, 1891-1961
Dr. Ivor Griffith describes several people of different faiths which all pray to the same God and imagines them all before St. Peter at the gates of heaven then describes the accounting that will take place and why they will all be judged equally regardless of their faiths or their race.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, , 60 and over, British Nationality, Educational Professions
Hailsham of St. Marylebone, Quintin Hogg, Baron, 1907-2001
Viscount Halisham considers and rejects the idea of materialism and embraces an immaterial universe at the center of which is Jesus Christ who can redeem the suffering and sins of mankind.
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– Other Themes: British Nationality, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Hall, Edward T. (Edward Twitchell), 1914-2009
Edward T. Hall describes how he came to believe in the efficacy of prayer.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Other, Educational Professions
Hall, G. Leslie
Leslie Hall explains he secret to staying vibrant; living in the present and not worrying.
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– Other Themes: Virginia, 60 and over, Business Professions
Hammarskjöld, Dag, 1905-1961
Dag Hammarskjöld describes his beliefs in the value of self-sacrifice and service to country and humanity, in the equality of individuals, in the importance of intellectual honesty, and in the rewards of selfless love and duty.
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– Other Themes: Western European Nationality, International Travel, Humanitarian Aid, and Diplomacy, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Hamilton, Edith, 1867-1963
Edith Hamilton talks about “spiritual truth” and why faith, not facts, are necessary for understanding it.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, 60 and over, Publishing and Writing Professions
Hampton, Wade B.
Wade Hampton lists his beliefs, some of which are: humility, faith, and respect for others, and the moral order of the universe.
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– Other Themes: Washington, D.C. – Other, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Haworth, Clarence V., 1875-
C.V. Haworth describes his early faith, doubts, reaffirmation of faith, and decision to pursue teaching as his life’s work rather than his initial career choice in law.
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– Other Themes: Indiana, 60 and over, Educational Professions
Hayes, Anna Hansen, 1886-1987
Anna Hayes Describes her fear of lightening as a child and the realization that fear is incompatible with faith in God. Anna also explains that faith in people and selflessness can bring the “kingdom of God on earth.”
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– Other Themes: Idaho, 60 and over, Publishing and Writing Professions
Haynes, George Edmund, 1880-1960
George Haynes describes his beliefs in the equal potential of humans, in beauty, truth, goodness, peace, life, God, and eternity.
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– New York – New York City, African Americans, Educational Professions, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy, Publish
Hecht, Edith
Edith Hecht explains why she believes the world is becoming a better place and her belief that faith, as opposed to fear, will remove obstacles in times of adversity, and that the world and man were created for goodness.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Homemaking Professions
Helms, Paul H.
Paul Helms describes his work with the Ford Foundation, as well as the impact his Christian upbringing has had on his beliefs, including his belief that giving 10% of his income results in tangible blessings.
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– Other Themes: California, International Travel, Humanitarian Aid, and Diplomacy, Business Professions
Hickey, Margaret
Margaret Hickey recalls her childhood when her father read the Bible to the family, and describes how her faith must be an active one of service.
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– Other Themes: Missouri, Publishing and Writing Professions
Hoey, Clyde Roark, 1877-1954
Clyde Hoey describes how his faith in God helped him to overcome childhood fears of walking home in the dark, and supported him through life’s challenges, a happy marriage, and the death of his spouse.
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– Other Themes: 60 and over, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Holloway, Alice G.
Alice Holloway describes the influence her grandmother and father have had on her beliefs and her certainty that kindness and service to others in need is the kindness that comes from a deeply spiritual and selfless place in people.
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– Other Themes: Connecticut, Business Professions, Women in Politics, Law, & Business, Publishing and Writing Professions
Holmstrom, Andrew B.
Andrew Holmstrom describes being raised by Swedish-born parents, recites a Swedish prayer and its English translation, and describes how he has passed that heritage of faith and traditions to his own children and grandchildren.
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– Other Themes: Massachusetts, Children of Immigrants, Manufacturing Professions, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Hoover, Herbert, 1874-1964
President Hoover describes the importance of religious faith in life, science, and politics.
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– Other Themes: New York – New York City, 60 and over, Architecture or Engineering Professions
Iglesias, Antonio
Antonio Iglesias describes how his three ideals-the search for truth, a love for beauty, and a reverence for goodness-have offered him strength, certainty and motivation to pursue life despite depression, physical handicaps, suffering, loneliness, and moral indifference.
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– New York – New York City, Central and South American Nationality, Immigrants/Immigration, Publishing and Writing Professions, Journa
Ingersoll, C. Jared, 1894-1988
C. Jared Ingersoll describes the tragic loss of his wife and son and how he perserveres through tragedy to find happiness in life again as a result of his faith and belief in an afterlife and the value and enjoyment he finds of being kind and generous.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Transportation or Shipping Professions
James, William F.
William James describes how an experience during World War II gave him a belief in his dependence on God and an appreciation for life, and how he strives to be sensitive to others’ beliefs and avoid speaking unkindly to them.
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– Other Themes: Missouri, Business Professions, Soldiers, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy
Jones, David Dallas
David Jones describes his belief in the value of hard work and harmonious relationships in the home, and his belief that there is a providence who provides.
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– Other THemes: North Carolina, Educational Professions
Jones, Morton T., b. 1892
Morton Jones describes how he learned to rely on God’s help for the moment at hand, and his belief that God’s daily guidance removes fear about the future.
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– Other Themes: Missouri, Banking and Finance Professions
Jordan, Lloyd
Lloyd Jordan explains why he believes man is imperishable and the importance of children to peace and happiness in the future.
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– Other Themes: Florida, Soldiers, Military Professions
Joubert de la Ferté, Philip, Sir, b. 1887
Sir Philip Joubert describes his beliefs in the goodness of humans, in the importance of self-sacrifice and duty, and in the uncertainty of believing in the simple faith of the past.
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– Other Themes: 60 and over, British Nationality, Publishing and Writing Professions, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Joyce, William H., Jr.
William Joyce describes how the deaths of his brother and son led him to conclude that he could only have faith in God’s purposes rather than demand an explanation of His actions.
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– Other Themes: California, Manufacturing Professions
Keller, Helen, 1880-1968
Helen Keller describes her faith in God, in immortality, and in her fellow human beings, as well as her confidence that social conditions are improving, despite the present sufferings of humanity.
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– Other Themes: Connecticut, 60 and over, Disability and Illness, Publishing and Writing Professions
Kelly, John B., (1889-1960)
John Kelly tells the story of his disqualification from the Diamond Sculls rowing competition for having apprenticed as a bricklayer and the resulting hope to meet Beresford, the Diamond Sculls champion, in the Olympics to compete against him for the Gold Medal. Kelly concludes that he believes his failures are the most important memories he holds.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, 60 and over, Business Professions, Sports Professions
Khan, Muhammad Zafrulla, 1893-1985
Muhammad Zafrulla Khan speaks about his faith in Islam; the religious beliefs he holds; religious life he follows; and his relationship with his God.
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– Other Themes: New York – New York City, Middle Eastern and North African Nationality, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Klacsman, Joseph J.
Joseph Klacsman describes his simple faith and the happiness he derives from serving a wide variety of passengers during his work as a Pullman conductor.
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– Other Themes: New Jersey, Transportation or Shipping Professions, Sports Professions, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Klutznick, Philip M., 1907-1999
Philip Klutznick describes his beliefs in the importance of formal religion, the need to view “charity” as “doing justice”, the need to view life as full of opportunities rather than troubles, and the importance of planned communities that preserve a sense of human dignity.
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– Other Themes: Illinois, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Knudsen, Vern Oliver, 1893-1974
Vern Knudsen explains uses his work in acoustics and science as the basis for his belief in the importance of honesty, truth, and integrity to live a good, happy life, and also provides an example from the field of acoustics to demonstrate his point.
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– Other Themes: California, Mathematics and Science Professions
Kreuzer, Melanie
Melanie Kreuzer describes the responsibilities that come with parenthood and community service.
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– Other Themes: New York – Other, Homemaking Professions, Women in Politics, Law, & Business, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Kruger, Otto, 1885-1974
Otto Kruger describes his beliefs and faith in God and his consequent transformation, as a result of his beliefs, from a gullible person who enjoyed gossip to a more thoughtful, reasoned debater.
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– Other Themes: 60 and over, Arts or Entertainment Professions
La Forge, Frank, 1879-1953
Frank La Forge describes his work and achievements in his career as a musician and pianist and believes in the necessity of acting to the best of one’s ability and faith in God’s support of one’s efforts.
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– Other Themes: Connecticut, 60 and over, Arts or Entertainment Professions
Lerew, Gillie A., 1882-1977
Gillie Lerew explains that a deeper understanding of science has given her a deeper sense of faith, a faith based in Christianity and a confidence in the human spirit.
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– Other Themes: Virginia, 60 and over, Mathematics and Science Professions
Livingston, Viola
Viola Livingston describes the influence her grandmother had on her beliefs in courage, faith, integrity, honor, service, and love of others; and she explains how these beliefs influenced her decision to go to Korea with the Department of the Army.
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– Other Themes: Military Professions
Long, Sylvester, 1875-1956
Sylvester Long recounts his experiences growing up in an Ohio farming family, and describes his belief that he is merely a “window” through which to reveal God’s light to others and God’s “subcontractor” whose work is done ultimately for and with God.
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– Other Themes: Kansas, 60 and over, Agriculture and Farming, Business Professions
Lutz, Jack
Jack Lutz describes his belief in the three dimensions of life: height, or success; breadth, or education and culture; and depth, or faith.
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– Other Themes: Advertising Professions
Lyon, P. H. B. (Percy Hugh Beverley), 1893-1986
Hugh Lyon talks about God and man and explains that the noble qualities of man, such as love, and valor and heroism, prove that he must be the child of God, and God gives life meaning and purpose.
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– Other Themes: British Nationality, Arts or Entertainment Professions, Educational Professions
Maners, William Tanner
William Maners states his belief that he is the product of his thoughts, and describes his process to replace past negative thoughts with positive ones.
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– Other Themes: Crime, Law Enforcement, and Criminal Rehabilitation, Military Professions
Mann, Edward M.
Edward Mann describes the simple truths that he believes are the root of his happiness; faith in God, service to others, and friendships.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Banking and Finance Professions
Maxwell-Fyfe, David, 1900-1967
David Maxwell-Fyfe describes his beliefs in the faith of a romantic-a faith with the conviction and idealism to address the problems of the age and which recognizes humanity’s need for spiritual advancement, in addition to scientific and material advancement.
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– Other Themes: British Nationality, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Mayo, Charles W. (Charles William), 1898-1968
Dr. Mayo tells of his belief in a purpose to everything in life; the need for compassion and respect for other people; how science supports his faith and belief in the immaterial; our responsibility to help others; and the value of humor in life.
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– Other Themes: Medical Professions
Montgomery, Ray
Ray Montgomery describes his belief that there is God in all men and that people must strive to find this inner God to create a better world in which people can live peacefully together in equality and cooperation.
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– Other Themes: Maryland, Educational Professions, Publishing and Writing Professions
Moser, Paul
Paul Moser remembers the order and discipline expected of him as a child, and how the virtue of work can be applied to society, guided by Christian values, to create order out of a chaotic and confusing world.
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– Other Themes: New York – New York City, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy
Mowrer, Paul Scott, 1887-1971
Paul Mowrer describes the importance of faith and hope to his beliefs, which include first hand experiences of both the good and bad that people can do.
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– Other Themes: New Hampshire, 60 and over, Publishing and Writing Professions, Journalism or Communications Professions
Murdock, Marcellus M. (Marcellus Marion), 1883-1970
Marcellus Murdock remembers a near-death experience while flying that was a catalyst for transforming his beliefs from a materialist view of life to a spiritual one.
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– Other Themes: Kansas, 60 and over
Neal-Martin, Marie
Marie Neal-Martin describes how she inherited from her mother and grandmother her beliefs in people, the Golden Rule, her country, and God by describing her mother’s attitude in adversity and her grandmother’s life after the Civil War.
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– Other Themes: Ohio, War and Civilians, Women in Politics, Law, & Business, Publishing and Writing Professions
Nottingham, Karl D.
Karl Nottingham explains our duty to adjust to society and some ways to do so such as; observing the Golden Rule, treating others with kindness, and helping those less fortunate, earning trust through friendship.
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– Other Themes: Indiana, Agriculture and Farming, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
O’Brien, Pat, 1899-1983
Pat O’Brien describes his belief in faith and prayer and the dignity of persons.
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– Other Themes: Arts or Entertainment Professions
O’Connell, Patrick A.
Patrick O’Connell talks about the uncertainty of always knowing right from wrong and the importance of the power of prayer.
– Other Themes: Massachusetts, Business Professions
O’Leary, Thomas V.
Thomas O’Leary describes stories of human kindness, and his belief that working in newspapers is a way to bring the truth to light.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Other, Journalism or Communications Professions
Oursler, Fulton, 1893-1952
Fulton Oursler explains why faith and love are the two most important prinicples in his life and how to practice them.
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– Other Themes: New York – New York City, Publishing and Writing Professions
Palmer, Mrs. Paul (Georgia)
Mrs. Palmer describes the environment in which she grew up and the values and faith she acquired as a result, and why this faith might help others navigate through a confusing and “unpredictable era”.
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– Other Themes: Missouri, 60 and over, Agriculture and Farming, Homemaking Professions
Pell, Walden, 1902-
Walden Pell describes his belief that life is an “educational enterprise” filled with teachers who must be sure that they are passing along the truth to the next generation.
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– Other Themes: Delaware, Educational Professions
Penfield, Wilder, 1891-1976
Wilfred Penfield describes his feeling of purpose and destiny when his boat was torpedoed during World War I and the relationship between science and religion.
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– 60 and over, Nationalities of Commonwealth Countries, War and Civilians, Educational Professions, Mathematics and Science Profession
Perry, Ralph Barton, 1876-1957
Ralph Perry describes his belief in believing – the quality that transforms idle thinking into action and his belief that humans can distinguish between right and wrong.
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– Other Themes: Massachusetts, 60 and over
Pillsbury, Mrs. Philip W. (Eleanor Bellows), d. 1971
Mrs. Pillsbury, President of Planned Parenthood Foundation of America, describes how she developed faith and belief in God and also her belief in the goodness of people and that we each have abilities that have been given to us for a purpose.
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– Other Themes: Minnesota, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy
Plagemann, Bentz, 1913-
Bentz Plagemann describes his experience in the Navy during WWII and the resulting belief that with patience and faith there are no difficulties one cannot overcome in life.
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– Other Themes: New York – New York City, Soldiers, Publishing and Writing Professions
Powell, Dick, 1904-1963
Dick Powell talks of the simple adages that have shaped his views of life, and his faith and describes his desire to pass them on to his children.
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– Other Themes: Arts or Entertainment Professions
Rank, J. Arthur, 1888-1972
J. Arthur Rank expresses his faith in God and humanity and the power of faith to transform the world in to a peaceful society.
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– Other Themes: 60 and over, British Nationality, Arts or Entertainment Professions
Read, Conyers, 1881-1959
Conyers Read enumerates some of his beliefs, such as; the ability to concern one’s self only with that which one can control; the importance of creative abilities and freedom of thought; and standards of right and wrong.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, 60 and over, Educational Professions
Rieder, Edmond
Edmond Rieder describes how his experiences with hotel guests have established his belief in the basic goodness of people, and he believes that practicing the Golden Rule and trying his best at his endeavors has led to satisfaction.
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– Other Themes: California, Western European Nationality, Immigrants/Immigration, Hospitality Professions
Rosenblum, Sidney
Sidney Rosenblum describes growing up in the only Jewish family in a small town in Tennessee; yet despite differences in religion, his family still found much in common with their community, and he believes in equality and the importance of serving others.
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– Other Themes: Kentucky, Jewish Speakers, Children of Immigrants, Business Professions
Sale, Virginia
Virginia Sale believes that to have a succesful and happy life it is important to do good for others in all things and to do this she tries to remember to act always as one of God’s children.
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– Other Themes: Arts or Entertainment Professions
Savage, Susan
Susan Savage talks about the impact the death of her mother had on her and her beliefs.
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– Other Themes: New York – New York City, Educational Professions
Schoenbrun, David
David Schoenbrun talks about his introduction to Descartes and Philosophy; the importance of doubting and questioning to liberty and his life; and how, contrary to assumption, his doubt is based on and strengthens his faith and spirituality.
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– Other Themes: Journalism or Communications Professions
Scott, Edgar
Edgar Scott describes his beliefs that the universe was created by God, that God is loving and in control of events, that the existence of evil does not negate the existence of God but rather teaches us important life lessons, that what happens after death is still an “unsolved puzzle,” and that individuals must surrender to the things in life which are too big for them to dominate.
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– Other Themes: Banking and Finance Professions, Publishing and Writing Professions
Sears, William
Bill Sears talks about his belief in the importance of developing faith and a moral character to live life to its fullest potential and greatest happiness.
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– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Sports Professions, Publishing and Writing Professions, Journalism or Communications Professions
Shellabarger, Samuel, 1888-1954
In a recording aired posthumously, Samuel Shellabarger describes his beliefs in his dependence upon God for eternal life, in the existence of natural laws that govern values and morality, and in the value of using the past to inform future decisions.
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– Other Themes: 60 and over, Publishing and Writing Professions
Sinclair, John S. (John Stephens), 1897-1972
John Sinclair describes his belief that faith in an immortal soul, prayer, knowledge of the truth, and humility will help him overcome discouragement, cynicism, and the fear of death.
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– Other Themes: Banking and Finance Professions, Business Professions, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Slater, Verona Wylie
Verona Slater describes her experience with religion as a child, the daughter of a minister, and how her beliefs in wisdom, kindness, courage and strength have been shaped by these experiences.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Homemaking Professions
Sloss, Hattie Hecht
Hattie Hecht Sloss describes her belief via the format of poetry, quoting Coolridge, James Henry Leigh Hunt, the Old and New Testaments, Tennyson, and several poems by Browning.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Publishing and Writing Professions
Sneed, Edward R.
Edward Sneed describes how ambition used to drive his life, until he learned how to count his blessings, and received great strength and happiness in return.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Business Professions, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Spidell, Rosalie
Rosalie Spidell describes her “creed of umimportant people”–her beliefs in unseen realities and the afterlife, her conviction that virture isn’t dead, her certainty in a religion she has practiced since childhood, and her description of simple pleasures and joys that have enriched her everyday life.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Florida, Educational Professions
Stacy-Judd, Robert
Robert Stacy-Judd relates an experience from early in his career when unemployment left him homeless and in despair; however, rather than taking his own life, he had the opportunity to prevent another from committing suicide, establishing his faith in divine help, prayer, and a sense of humor.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: California, British Nationality, Architecture or Engineering Professions, Immigrants/Immigration
Stark, Freya
Freya Stark talks about her belief in immortality and the afterlife and how this view of eternity affects her perspective and gives her an affinity for sincerity and truth.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Western European Nationality, Publishing and Writing Professions
Stassen, Harold Edward, 1907-2001
Harold Stassen describes Albert Schweitxer’s life and his philosophy of “reverence for life”, and from this explains why people yearn for freedom and dictatorships can never stop this yearning.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Educational Professions, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Stevens, Lewis Miller, 1898-1963
Lewis Stevens discusses the importance of the spirit, affection and faith in God’s love to withstand the trials and calamity of the material world.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Stewart, George
Lt. Col. George Stewart describes how he developed a moral code based on friendliness, and explains how his faith in people developed because of his neighbors’ friendliness, and how Jesus demonstrated God’s friendliness during His time on earth.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: New Hampshire, Publishing and Writing Professions, Military Professions
Thayer, Eliza Talbott, 1901-1990
Eliza Thayer observes how fortunate she has been in life to underscore her beliefs in the importance of love in one’s life and why love assures her in the existence of life after death.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Arts or Entertainment Professions
Thayer, Frederick
Frederick Thayer considers the many different philosophies and belief systems in the world and arrives at the conclusion that people would be better off focusing on their present life and conduct rather than on their afterlife.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Banking and Finance Professions
Totton, Frank M., 1890-1954
Frank Totton describes the meaning he finds in life as a result of his religious faith and belief that God works through man which encourages and enables him to support and aid others.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: New York – New York City, 60 and over, Banking and Finance Professions, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy
Underhill, Irvin Windfield, 1896-1982
Reverend Irvin Underhill believes that good things can come out of adversity when one keeps faith and he recalls an experience in Africa in which fear and danger led him to peace and tranquility.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Pennsylvania, International Travel, Humanitarian Aid, and Diplomacy, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philant
Vann, Jessie, 1885-1967
Jessie Vann describes her belief in the value of keeping her promises, her aunt’s prediction that she would never amount to anything, her belief in the power of gratitude and appreciation, and the management of her husband’s newspaper after he died.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Pennsylvania, African Americans, Women in Politics, Law, & Business, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy,
Vining, Elizabeth Gray, 1902-1999
Elizabeth Vining describes how she used to depend on human love for meaning and satisfaction till her husband was killed in an automobile accident, and then she came to believe in God’s love and the efficacy of prayer.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Educational Professions
Walsh, Catherine Flemming
Catherine Walsh describes her belief that it is impossible to be truly happy and the importance of always making the best effort in what one does.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Missouri, Educational Professions
Warren, Constance, 1880-1971
Constance Warren discusses the importance of education to happiness and ethics and describes the values that have made her life a happy one.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: 60 and over, Educational Professions
Wells, Jacqueline, 1914-2001
Julie Bishop (born Jacqueline Wells) describes her belief in the efficacy of prayer, and recounts a childhood experience in which she asked God to help her learn how to ice skate.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Arts or Entertainment Professions
Werner, Herbert L.
Herbert Werner would like to add an eleventh commandment; to be kind to everyone. He also explains why kindness is important and how following this commandment has positively affected his life.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: New York – New York City, Western European Nationality, Immigrants/Immigration
White, Goodrich C. (Goodrich Cook), b. 1889
Goodrich White describes the death of his son, and the immense grief of his wife, and his subsequent struggle with doubt and ultimate belief in God and life after death.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Georgia, 60 and over, Educational Professions
Whitehurst, Bert W.
Bert Whitehurst describes how waiting for a spinal fusion surgery brought him to a belief in prayer and released him from the fear of death.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Massachusetts, Architecture or Engineering Professions, Arts or Entertainment Professions
Whitney, Madge
Madge Whitney describes how children’s social work brings purpose to her life.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Texas, Professions in Social Work, Nonprofit, & Philanthropy
Wilson, Claire D.
Claire Wilson talks about his optimism and faith, his belief in the responsibility of the individual to improve themselves for the good of society, altruism, and the impact of meditation and trips to the mountains on his serenity and peace of mind.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Kansas
Winslow, Thyra Samter, 1893-1961
Thyra Winslow describes how happy her life has been thus far, and states her beliefs in the importance of curiosity, flexibility, faith, and love.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Publishing and Writing Professions
Winton, David J., 1897-
David J. Winton describes his faith in the future, his belief that material gains do not yield lasting satisfaction, his belief in the potential of people to achieve greatness, and his advice for focusing on the present rather than dwelling on past failures.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: Minnesota, Business Professions, Manufacturing Professions, Politics, Law, & Government Professions
Worthington, E. Barton (Edgar Barton), 1905-
Dr. Edgar Worthington describes his belief in the mutability of beliefs and how his personal beliefs evolved out of traditional religious dogma into a wider appreciation for nature and beauty and principles irrespective of doctrine. He also describes his perspective of Africa as an European immigrant to the country.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: British Nationality, Immigrants/Immigration, International Travel, Humanitarian Aid, Mathematics and Science Profession
Zorach, William, 1889-1966
William Zorach believes that people have had their faith strained and that it is important to get in touch with one’s creative ability to communicate and define one’s feelings in order to progress towards a world of happiness and prosperity.
Listen to the essay– Other Themes: 60 and over, Eastern European Nationality, Arts or Entertainment Professions