Mid-Atlantic
Essays by speakers from the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States.
Delaware
Du Pont, James Q. (James Quinn), 1902-1973
Engineer James Du Pont explains his belief that life is difficult but people are strong, although complicated by being both good and bad, and to be good one must be humble, compassionate and have faith.
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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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Maryland
Carey, James B.
Labor leader James Carey describes his belief in liberty for all humanity, based on his belief that all Americans are “displaced persons” (immigrants) and have the right to pursue the resources necessary to fulfill their basic physical and spiritual needs.
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Joy, C. Turner (Charles Turner), 1895-1956
Charles Turner Joy, 37th Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, compares life to navigation in that everyone begins life in a specific spot and situation and then travels toward an unknown destination, using whatever tools we have acquired in life to give direction; from this he adds that it is important to keep your awareness in the present and do the task at hand.
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Montgomery, Ray
Ray Montgomery, an instructor at the University of Baltimore and a U.S. Navy veteran, 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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New Jersey
Bobst, Elmer Holmes
Industrialist Elmer Bobst describes his 82-year-old friend Bernard Baruch, and describes his belief that long life and happiness are achieved through the act of remaining productive, even after retirement.
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Button, Dick, 1929-
Figure skater Dick Button describes how, during a skating exhibition in Prague in 1948, he was showered with oranges wrapped in messages from the Czech people, messages which underscored his belief in the importance of political freedom.
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Cantrell, Hadley
Hadley Cantrell, Chairman of the Department of Psychology at Princeton University, describes the differences between knowledge, beliefs, and emotions, and states his belief that human beings are essentially the same in their needs and aspirations, and that satisfaction comes through high quality work motivated by love.
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Greene, Ward, 1892-1956
Newspaper editor and author 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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Hart, Lawrence
Insurance agent and George Washington impersonator Lawrence Hart describes his beliefs: that the world was intelligently designed, that we have been given brains to combat sin and suffering and the desire to help make the world better, that we are responsible for who we are as much as heredity or environment, that truth will prevail over falsehood, that Christ’s principles are the finest ever taught, that worship services and meditation are essential to understanding life’s meaning, and that life continues after death.
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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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Thomas, Dorothy
Author Dorothy Thomas explains why she feels it is important to find a balance in life that allows one to be happy and appreciative of life and lists the many simple pleasures she finds in life that make her happy.
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Williams, Joe, d. 1972
Sportswriter Joe Williams describes how sports and an escape from a plane crash have crystallized his philosophy: that sports reveal and develop character, and that there comes a point when events in life can’t be changed, but rather go “into the record,” and must be accepted with calmness.
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New York -- New York City
Abrams, Charles, 1902-1970
Polish-born lawyer and author Charles Abrams tells of his faith in man despite his frequent uncertainty when confronted with the realities of war, greed and other instances of human weakness. However, he remains devoted to the ability of man to rely on his conscience to someday improve and perfect the world in which we live.
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Angell, Roger
Roger Ansell, Associate Editor of Holiday Magazine, describes his belief in the need for skepticism rather than arrogant certainty, in his hope that civilization will advance through the current anxious age, in the importance of seeing society’s maturation as a point yet to come in the future, in the realization of the humanity of others, and in the refreshing openness of children.
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Barber, Red, 1908-1992
Sportscaster Red Barber talks about the spirit of the athlete and how this exemplifies the importance of spirit in life.
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Bristol, Lee Hastings, 1892-1962
Businessman 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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Brown, Margery Finn
Author, Army wife, and journalist Margery Brown describes her beliefs in God, in the existence of a soul, in the satisfaction of contributing to life, and in the value of humility.
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Clurman, Harold, 1901-1980
Theater critic and director Harold Clurman describes how difficult the theater field was during the Great Depression, but expresses his love and motivations for being in theater and his desire to serve others.
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Chyz, Yaroslav J., 1894-1958
Ukrainian-born journalist Yaroslav Chyz runs through many of the simple adages he lives by, but emphasizes that underlying them all is the “Golden Rule.”
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Colwell, Robert
Advertising executive 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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Crandall, Lou R. - “A Straight Wall is Hard to Build – Version 1”
Engineer Lou Crandall uses the analogy of construction to describe his belief that young people are foundations upon which a strong, straight character must be built, and he looks to Biblical characters for examples of steadfast integrity.
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Crandall, Lou R. - “A Straight Wall is Hard to Build – Version 2”
Lou Crandall describes his belief that hard work brings value to our accomplishments, a belief he believes that his ancestors, the founding fathers, and architects and engineers from history all shared.
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Davis, Elmer Holmes, 1890-1958
Broadcaster and journalist Elmer Davis discusses the importance of intellectual freedom to freedom and progress, and some of the difficulties that can come with such freedom.
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Donaldson, Anne Talbot
Social reformer Anne Donaldson describes her beliefs in the loving Fatherhood of God, the brotherhood of humanity, the triumph of good over evil, and the development of God’s Kingdom through the efforts of individuals working with God’s help for social reform.
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Drake, Alfred, 1914-1992
Actor and theater director Alfred Drake describes his belief that life is like a tight-rope act he witnessed as a child: that individuals are constantly wavering between good and evil in an upward fight against gravity, but ultimately good will win.
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Draper, Mary C.
Social worker Mary Draper describes her belief in equality and change as a positive force in the world and in people’s lives, positive change she has seen in people through her work; in addition, she hopes for changes in the world that will bring peace and progress.
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Duer, Caroline, 1865-1956
Author and artist Caroline Duer describes most of her beliefs through a poem she wrote which emphasizes the value of enjoying simple pleasures, showing kindness and courtesy, working, avoiding excessive caution, meeting obligations, being courageous, showing tolerance, and avoiding regrets, for “the day is dark; it may be fair tomorrow.”
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Duveen, Charles
Lecturer and author Charles Duveen, Jr., describes his experience of being shot from a plane while flying over the Pacific during 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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Earle, Genevieve B.
Social worker and New York City Councilwoman Genevieve B. Earle remembers the surprise of seeing poverty as a child and how she developed a belief in the benefits of a strong government to promote laws and provide for its citizens although she says that can only happen when the people are engaged as active, equal partners in the work of a city.
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Epstein, Benjamin R.
Benjamin Epstein, National Director of the Anti-Defamation League, describes the faith in people he had as a child and how he lost that faith after studying abroad in Nazi Germany, but regained it after his return to the United States.
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Freeman, Lucy, 1916-2004
Journalist Lucy Freeman talks about her mental health and how psychoanalysis and faith helped her to feel good about herself again.
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Glueck, Nelson, 1900-1972
Nelson Glueck, President of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, recounts an experience in which he tried but failed to out-pedal a rain storm while cycling through the countryside, and describes how this experience helped form his belief that he should never try to run from difficult life circumstances.
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Gorthy, Willis C.
Willis Gorthy, Director of the Institute for the Crippled and Disabled, describes how as a boy he was drawn toward careers that were flashy and important; later in life, he found satisfaction through a career that helped disabled individuals achieve productive lives.
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Gregg, Eugene Stuart, 1892-
Businessman Eugene Gregg describes his beliefs that persons are responsible to a higher authority and responsible for taking care of others as well as themselves.
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Gruenberg, Sidonie Matsner, 1881-1974
Austrian-born author Sidonie Gruenberg describes her belief in the importance of both family life and productive occupation outside the home, and recounts how she balanced those values in her own life.
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Hagen, Uta, 1919-2004
German-born actor Uta Hagen describes her belief that, despite being threatened and blackmailed, she has been true to herself and her beliefs in art and simple acts that bring pleasure to others.
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Hale, Oliver (Oscar Hirschmann) & Hale, Oliver, Mrs. (Esther Hirschmann)
Mr. and Mrs. Hale, having been married for a long time, talk of the imminent death that will separate them as they age; yet in spite of the expected grief, they will continue to view life with excitement and wonder, and remind everyone of the importance of having compassion for all.
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Hannah, Joseph V.
Joseph Hannah, Professor of Psychology at New York University, describes his belief in the dignity of the human personality, and the right of an individual to pursue his or her own fulfillment, including responsibility to others.
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Haynes, George Edmund, 1880-1960
George Haynes, the Executive Director of National Urban League, describes his beliefs in the equal potential of humans, in beauty, truth, goodness, peace, life, God, and eternity.
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Hays, Arthur Garfield, 1881-1954
Arthur Hays, General Counsel for the American Civil Liberties Union, speaks about his belief in freedom and the importance of democratic values and ideals in maintaining liberty.
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Henderson, Howard
Advertising executive Howard Henderson describes how a series of failures and challenges during his early life and career revealed to him an inner strength and resilience, and describes his belief that a person’s strength comes from being part of a greater whole – family, community, world, or God.
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Heubener, Theodore
Educator Theodore Heubener describes how he came to believe that suffering had a purpose, either as the result of a person’s transgression of the natural order of the universe, or as the basis through which one’s character is formed.
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Hoover, Herbert, 1874-1964
President Hoover, engineer and 31st President of the United States, describes the importance of religious faith in life, science, and politics.
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Hughes, John
John Hughes talks about living honestly as a taxicab driver in New York City.
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Hurok, Sol, 1888-1974
Ukrainian-born impresario Sol Hurok recounts his experiences as an immigrant to America, and his vision for a venture that would bring classical artists to a popular audience.
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Hurst, Fannie – This I Believe Essay #1
Novelist Fannie Hurst explains how the the character of her late husband reminds her that one must be honest with oneself in order to be fulfilled and to achieve peacefulness, tranquility and personal success.
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Hurst, Fannie – This I Believe Essay #2
Novelist Fannie Hurst talks about the example her husband set of how to live a selfless life, and her belief that many such lights of selfless living (though small) can together illuminate an entire arena in the world.
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Iglesias, Antonio
Mexican author and journalist 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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Isaacs, Stanley M. (Stanley Myer), 1882-1962
Politician Stanley Isaacs talks about his dedication and enthusiasm for politics and civic engagement and expresses how his faith in Judaism supports his beliefs in democratic values like liberty and individuality.
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Jackson, Lee
Painter Lee Jackson describes his love of painting, and how he found encouragement to pursue that love despite lack of recognition or finances in the early days of his career.
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Johnson, Holgar J.
Insurance executive Holgar Johnson explains the importance of adapting to change for progress, and lists some of his beliefs such as: faith in honesty of people, respect for people, the importance of compassion, taking action for one’s self, and the belief in a higher power.
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Johnson, Kenneth D.
Kenneth Johnson, Dean of the New York School of Social Work, talks of the importance of democracy, freedom and human welfare, and emphasizes the ethical principles that underlie our democratic ideals.
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Kennedy, Jay Richard
Investment adviser and author Jay Kennedy speaks of growing up as a young, homeless orphan and the important lesson of survival, and staying alive, that he learned and still lives by, although tempered by the knowledge that to fully develop one must do so within the context of relationships with others.
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Khan, Muhammad Zafrulla, 1893-1985
Pakistani Foreign Minister Muhammad Zafrulla Khan speaks about his faith in Islam; the religious beliefs he holds; the religious life he follows; and his relationship with his God.
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Kohn, Lucile
Teacher Lucile Kohn describes the spirit of cooperation she finds in her work and in young people and the inspiration she draws from working with and teaching youth and why this gives her faith that there can be a better world in the future.
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Lehman, Herbert H. (Herbert Henry), 1878-1963
Former Governor of New York, U.S. Senator, and partner at the Lehman Brothers investment banking firm, Herbert Lehman describes his two basic beliefs: first, one should give back to society according to what he or she has received, and secondly, one should extend respect to the opinions and beliefs of others.
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Lukas, Edwin J. (Edwin Jay), 1902-1973
Edwin Lukas, Director of the Civil Rights Division of the American Jewish Committee, speaks about the importance of tolerance and respect for other people, cultures and races and the negative impact prejudice can have on an individual and a community.
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MacIver, Robert M. (Robert Morrison), 1882-1970
British-born sociologist Robert MacIver describes his belief that no matter how thoroughly he pursues knowledge of the world, he realizes that there will always be aspects yet to be explained, leaving room for wonder in his view of the world.
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McKeen, John E. (John Elmer), 1903-1978
Businessman John McKeen explains why beliefs are important and expresses his faith in the ultimate goodness of people, the intimate connection between the spiritual and the material, the drive to live, and the responsibility to safeguard the welfare of others and not just ourselves.
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Mead, Margaret, 1901-1978
Anthropologist Margaret Mead describes her belief that humans are born with the same inherent abilities, but each is formed by the culture in which he or she grows up; Mead believes it is through our relationship to civilization that we derive meaning, and that we must strive to build a civilization whose future is secure and free.
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Melby, Ernest Oscar, 1891-1987
Educator Ernest Melby talks about his belief in the individuality of people and the need for freedom and liberty in order for people to develop to the greatest potential.
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Merwin, Don, 1928-
Don Merwin, Assistant Producer on This I Believe, describes an incident in his life in which many members of his neighborhood gave blood after a terrible accident, and he explains how this event keeps him from despair and gives him confidence in the eventual triumph of peace and human kindness.
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Miller, Louis
Louis Miller, Director of the Jewish Memorial Hospital in New York City, remembers the important lesson he learned from his mother, to always help those in need, and describes how this led him to a career in hospital administration.
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Mills, Thelma
Educator, teacher, and social reformer Thelma Mills describes her philosophy of social service, as well as her beliefs in the personality of Jesus Christ, God’s eternal purpose for the universe, and her own role in living out that purpose by serving others.
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Mitropoulos, Dimitri, 1896-1960
Greek-born conductor Dimitri Mitropolous describes two experiences that led him to his belief that talent and celebrity should be used to help others.
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Morgan, Edward P., 1910-1993
Journalist Edward Morgan talks about the importance of understanding one’s self and compassion for humanity in achieving a greater understanding and appreciation of life and beauty.
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Morris, Newbold
Lawyer and politician Newbold Morris describes the American spirit and how that spirit is exemplified though progressive, democratic values and their corresponding government programs.
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Moser, Paul
Paul Moser, Executive Secretary of the National Council of Presbyterian Men in New York, 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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Motley, Arthur H. “Red”, 1900-1984
Arthur Motley, publisher of Parade magazine, describes his experience in watching “Death of a Salesman” and his reaction to the negative portrayal of salesmen within that play, and states why he believes salesmen and selling are synonymous with change, progress, and action, and are thus like life in miniature.
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Nilson, Alfred
Radio engineer and sailor Alfred Nilson describes how, as a harvester in California, the only way to keep his balance while traveling on foot along the railroad ties was to focus his eyes on the distance, and he explains how this lesson in farsightedness has helped him to balance the rest of his life.
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Oursler, Fulton, 1893-1952
Author Fulton Oursler explains why faith and love are the two most important principles in his life and describes how to practice them.
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Plagemann, Bentz, 1913-
Author 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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Pons, Lily, 1898-1976
French-born soprano Lily Pons describes how she learned to deal with stage fright, and how an inner voice helped her persevere to become an opera singer.
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Roosevelt, Eleanor, 1884-1962
Eleanor Roosevelt describes growing up in a religious household and later questioning her childhood beliefs, and concludes with the belief that a person must simply do the best that she can while meeting the future with courage.
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Rothschild, Walter N.
Businessman Walter Rothschild describes his belief in the need to allow human beings to develop their unique potential, the necessity of helping others, the importance of discipline, and the need to guide rather than dominate children; finally, he describes the contentment he derives from sailing at sea.
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Roy, Subodh Chandra, Dr.
Indian-born Dr. Subodh Chandra Roy, Professor of Philosophy at New School for Social Research, describes how his life changed when he became blind at age seven, and states his belief that suffering can cause personal growth.
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Rusk, Howard A., 1901-
Howard Rusk, Professor and Department Chairman at the New York University College of Medicine, describes how the challenges of healing sick individuals drew him to practice medicine, and states his belief that suffering produces character.
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Savage, Susan
Teacher Susan Savage talks about the impact the death of her mother had on her and her beliefs.
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Schoonover, Lawrence L.
Author Lawrence Schoonover describes his experiment with ethics in his youth and his questioning of the relevance of the Ten Commandments. He then recounts the awareness of his mistake and how he lives by them and raises his children according to them.
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Shirer, William L. (William Lawrence), 1904-1993
While reporting from Germany during Nazi rule, radio commentator William L. Shirer learned the value of tolerance and freedom and was inspired by people’s ability to retain their faith and will to live in the face of atrocities. Shirer believes that man’s resilience, especially during times of war, comes from having a rich inner life of reflection and contemplation.
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Simon, Caroline K. (Caroline Klein)
Lawyer Caroline Simon emphasizes the dignity of all people and talks briefly about her work with the New York State Commission Against Discrimination.
Smith, Robertson
Literary agent Robertson Smith describes how a moment of apparent catastrophe formed his belief that all things work together for the good of those who love God, and led to his belief that God’s loving purpose and presence are in every situation.
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Spalding, Howard G.
Educator Howard Spalding describes his belief in a divine spark that exists within every person and which spurs creative invention and moral reasoning, and states his belief that happiness is achieved through the ability to use creative intelligence in the service of others.
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Strassman, Ralph K.
Col. Ralph K. Strassman, Vice-President of Ward Wheelock Company Advertising, describes his belief in the importance of human beings, and the enduring persistence of human personality, despite the failures and fears of the present age.
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Stulman, Julius
Julius Stulman, President of Stulman-Emrick Lumber Company, states his belief in the need for self-evaluation and describes his own practice of speculating on what values the future might require and subsequently living his life towards achieving those goals.
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Taylor, Harold, 1914-1993
Harold Taylor, President of Sarah Lawrence College, expresses his belief in the essential goodness of people and their natures and describes his philosophy that quality of life and faith in the future is a consequence of developing this goodness to live in harmony with other people.
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Thompson, Alice, 1910-
Alice Thompson, publisher of Seventeen magazine, talks about her life as a mother, a wife, a member of society, and a worker; and she explains the importance of understanding, love, and compassion to a happy life.
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Thompson, William B.
Locomotive engineer William Thompson describes life in his hometown, Croton-on-Hudson, and how simplicity keeps life manageable and productive.
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Totton, Frank M., 1890-1954
Banker Frank Totton describes the meaning he finds in life as a result of his religious faith and belief that God works through man, a belief which encourages and enables him to support and aid others.
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Trilling, Louis R.
College teacher Louis Trilling talks about how beliefs change, particularly as one changes, and what is important is that one does have beliefs to follow and that in order to be happy and content, one should believe in something outside of oneself.
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Tucker, Richard, 1913-1975
Metropolitan Opera tenor and Jewish cantor Richard Tucker describes his belief in honesty and keeping one’s word, and recounts how he strives to teach his son that even so-called “white lies” still hurt the teller of the lie.
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Watson, Lucile, 1879-1962
Canadian-born actor Lucile Watson recounts her childhood discovery of the knowledge that she could change herself for the better, and, after successes with simple things such as maintaining her hair and quitting nail-biting, she developed a philosophy for life, including a belief that God was in everything and made everything.
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Wehle, Louis B. (Louis Brandeis), 1880-1959
Lawyer Louis Wehle describes the concept of spiritual perfection, and while this goal may be unattainable, the pursuit is worthwhile, and this is the only effort that can give true and enduring satisfaction.
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Weil, Frank L. (Frank Leopold), 1894-1957
Social reformer and lawyer Frank Weil describes his beliefs that one must earn future privileges through the work of today, that belief in the future provides strength for meeting the challenges of today, and that people in general have the wisdom and integrity to achieve a better tomorrow.
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Werner, Herbert L.
German-born Herbert Werner, head of Werner Textile Consultants, 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.
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Yoder, Hilda Widener
Reading teacher Hilda Yoder describes how she used to emphasize marriage and financial security, only to lose both her husband and home; she describes how she found purpose and healing in serving others; and she states her beliefs in virtues of kindness, forgiveness, simplicity, and humility that are still practiced by children (and should be practiced by adults).
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New York -- Other
Adler, Irene R.
Irene Adler, a student at Cornell University, 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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Bee, Clair, 1900-
Author and basketball coach Clair Bee talks about some of his experiences and hardships coaching and working with youth and the faith in youth that has developed from these experiences.
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Belden, Mary Addams
Business professional Mary Belden describes her beliefs in the brotherhood of individuals, the need for tolerance, the importance of listening to the other side of an argument, the dignity of human beings, the need to remember the past, and her confidence that Christianity will triumph over other philosophies, dispelling fear and uncertainty.
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Brewster, Neal
Neal Brewster, Comptroller of the City of Syracuse, 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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Carlson, William S. (William Samuel), 1912-
William Carlson, President of the State University of New York, describes how his experience of living with an Inuit family in Greenland disproved his belief of belonging to a superior race, and he states his beliefs in the brotherhood of humanity, the virtue of patience, the need for self-evaluation, the unity of family, and the method of science.
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Case, Everett, 1901-2000
Everett Case, President of Colgate University, describes his belief in Socrates’ “examined life,” and the role of the humanities in helping an individual discern and protect justice.
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Curtiss, W. David
W. David Curtiss, Associate Professor of Law at Cornell University, 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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Gates, Frieda
Frieda Gates, Director of the Syracuse Public Library, discusses how her work as a librarian allows her to help others educate themselves and the importance of tolerance and respect for others views.
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Kreuzer, Melanie
Melanie Kreuzer, Syracuse community leader, describes the responsibilities that come with parenthood and community service.
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MacCracken, H. N. (Henry Noble), b. 1880
Henry MacCracken, President of Vassar College, describes the basic tenants of his personal philosophy (art, science, democracy, and religion) and how these four “points of the compass” are held together by freedom.
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McEwen, Robert Ward
Robert McEwen, President of Hamilton College, describes his faith in people that he developed from working with young people in education and his belief in the adaptability of people in a dynamic universe.
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Menzies, P. K.
Canadian-born surgeon P. K. Menzies describes his belief in the physician’s responsibility to treat his patients with respect and dignity, and explains how his study of the intricate workings of the human body formed his belief that the universe must have been designed by a “supreme architect.”
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Miller, Louise H.
The essence of homemaker Louise Miller’s philosophy is that heaven is around us and at the “center of man”; she explains how she cultivates this in herself through meditation and the outcomes, particularly in relations with others, that she finds.
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Nelson, Edith L.
Teacher Edith Nelson talks about learning the Golden Rule early in life; the impact that teaching has had on her life; and the importance of kindness, friends, and families when struggling through adversity.
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Salmon, Richard
Artist and author Richard Salmon ponders the magnitude of the universe and describes his realization that everything is part of God’s plan and how fishing teaches him to make the best of life.
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Soule, Oscar F.
Oscar Soule, President of the WFBL radio station, quotes Lee Bristol’s This I Believe essay and states his agreement with Bristol’s belief that service to man is like a payment of rent for time on earth.
Strebel, Ralph F. (Ralph Frederick), b. 1894
Ralph Strebel, Academic Dean of Utica College, talks about his early childhood and his awareness of class and his youthful epiphany that one should have pride in oneself for who they are, not where they come from, and how this realization supports his belief in equality and democracy. He also talks about the need to develop a more spiritual philosophy in the world and abandon the materialistic philosophy that he believes is pervasive.
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Wilcox, Walter F.
Statistician Walter Wilcox describes his belief that the world has steadily gotten better during his lifetime, and his belief that individuals must create order out of the personal chaos in which they find themselves, with truth and freedom necessary components of this task.
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Pennsylvania -- Philadelphia
Allman, Robert G., 1919-1994
Lawyer Robert Allman explains why losing his sight endowed him with an appreciation for life and how he learned to believe in himself and adapt and adjust to reality.
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Bagnell, Francis James
Francis Bagnell, the quarterback at the University of Pennsylvania, talks about his success in football and the importance of humility that has given him an optimism and openness in order to make friends with the many people he meets.
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Beitzel, George B.
Businessman George Beitzel describes the need for the individual to live a Christian life and how this will result in greater peace and happiness through out the world.
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Burk, Joseph William, 1914-2008
Joseph Burk, Crew Coach at the University of Pennsylvania, tells of a moment during a football game when his coach made him understand that he could do anything he wanted if he desired it enough and was prepared to work for it.
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Cobbs, Susan Parker, 1905-1975
Swarthmore College classicist Susan Parker Cobbs believes, as Socrates did, that the unexamined life is not worth living. Cobbs says all people have goodness within them, which can be expressed where there is freedom, faith and truth.
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Ely, Van Horn
Businessman Van Horn Ely explains his belief in the goodness of people and his efforts, based on the story of Moses and the Ten Commandments, to be open and honest in all of his interactions with other people.
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Eristoff, Anne
Anne Eristoff, a student at Bryn Mawr College, does not believe the concept of Hell should be a motivating factor for good behavior but rather believes that incentive should come from wanting to be a part of the natural harmony of the world through goodness, truth, and beauty.
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Evans, Bob, 1924-
Bob Evans, African-American tackle for the University of Pennsylvania, explains his belief in the individual and the individual’s responsibility to oneself, to one’s community, and to one’s God, emphasizing the importance of equality, self respect and the Ten Commandments.
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Evans, Harold
Lawyer 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 as examples of the type of individuals to whom people can look in order to create prosperity and peace in the world for everyone.
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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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Fox, Thomas P.
Dentist and educator 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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French, Paul Comly, 1903-1960
Paul French remembers the lasting impression his mother’s 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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Griffith, Ivor, 1891-1961
Welsh-born Dr. Ivor Griffith, President and Research Director of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science, 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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Hamilton, Edith, 1867-1963
Author Edith Hamilton talks about “spiritual truth” and why faith, not facts, are necessary for understanding it.
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Hecht, Edith
Sculptor and homemaker 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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Hires, Charles E., b. 1891
Businessman Charles Hires tells of his habit of throwing himself into work and cutting off relationships in response to the death of his wife, and his realization that he was doing so in error and that happiness comes through helping and interacting with others.
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Hodges, Leigh Mitchell, 1876-
Journalist Leigh Hodges describes how his constant worry and fear changed to hope and confidence, and how he came to believe in himself and enjoy the opportunities each new day brings.
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Hoskins, Lewis M., 1916-2011
Lewis Hoskins, Executive Secretary of the American Friends Service Committee, recalls a time when he was taken prisoner by a Chinese soldier while providing humanitarian aid and his ability to find a common humanity and brotherliness with his captor that disarmed the fear and violence of the situation.
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Hottel, Althea K. (Althea Krantz), 1907-
Althea Hottel, Dean of Women at the University of Pennsylvania, remembers an influential poem and advice from her grandmother and how these things have shaped her and impacted her experience in life and religion.
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Hubben, William, 1895-1974
German-born William Hubben, Editor of the Friends Intelligencer, describes how, despite his experiences in Nazi Germany and the popular lack of faith in social progress, he still maintains a belief in the meaning of life and faith in the moral values of the next generation.
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Ingersoll, C. Jared, 1894-1988
C. Jared Ingersoll, Director of the Pennsylvania Railway, describes the tragic loss of his wife and son and how he perseveres throughout tragedy to find happiness in life again as a result of his faith, his belief in an afterlife, and the value and enjoyment he finds through being kind and generous.
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Jacob, Betty
Human rights worker Betty Jacob describes her belief in the brotherhood of humanity, her disillusionment, and the final reaffirmation of her belief sparked by her work with international citizens via the United Nations.
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Johnson, Eric Warner
Eric Warner Johnson, Head of Friends’ Central School, describes his beliefs in the freedom of conscience, in the brotherhood of humanity, in the importance of living one’s faith in practical action, and in the value of speaking the truth, even at personal risk.
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Kelly, John B., (1889-1960)
Businessman and rower 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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Kimball, Maulsby, 1904-1987
Painter and educator Maulsby Kimball, Jr., describes his belief that man is full of potential that has yet to be tapped, and his belief that humans can unlock that potential through art and creative activity.
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Mann, Edward M.
Banker 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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McVey, James Lewis
James McVey reflects on values as he matures and makes note of the ones that remain firm, such as the Golden Rule, and tells how happiness is the fruit of a simple life.
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Millen, Herbert E.
Judge Millen, an African American judge, describes how, despite his experience as a judge with the bad side of people, he still maintains an optimistic belief in the overall goodness of people, and while he still becomes discouraged and impatient with prejudice, his religion gives him comfort and support.
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Nason, John W.
John Nason, President of Swarthmore College, talks about the importance of education in creating a just and thoughtful society and adds that he believes these qualities of justice and goodness are an inherent part of the universe.
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Nesbitt, Albert J.
Industrialist Albert Nesbitt describes how his successful life as a manufacturer left him feeling dissatisfied; it wasn’t until he began to apply the Golden Rule, to engage with his factory union workers as people with legitimate points of view, and become involved in YMCA service, that the emptiness left him as he practiced what he describes as Christian principles.
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Norton, Nicholas
Nicholas Norton, a student at Haverford College, describes his belief that beauty is the basic tenant which makes his life feel secure, that religion ought to lead to a feeling of beauty, and that he would be willing to fight and die to prevent oppression and preserve freedom.
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Petersen, Howard C. (Howard Charles), 1910-
Howard Petersen, President of Fidelity Philadelphia Trust Company, describes how children confidently believe that good will triumph over evil, and outlines his belief that we must work to make this youthful optimism a reality by learning to live in harmony with others.
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Phipps, Anne
Anne Phipps, a student at Bryn Mawr College, describes her ongoing transition from a belief simply in outward things (such as the beauty to be found in nature, art, dance, and literature) to a belief in her inner soul.
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Read, Conyers, 1881-1959
Historian and University of Pennsylvania professor Conyers Reads 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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Richie, David S., 1908-
David Richie, Executive Secretary of the Friends Social Order Committee of Philadelphia, mentions a social experiment he tried in which he behaved selfishly one week and selflessly the following, what he discovered is that he felt better when acting selflessly and he believes now that good deeds can only be accomplished through good means.
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Richmond, Ralph
Advertising agent Ralph Richmond talks about his illness and the recovery that gave him a new, fresh perspective on his life.
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Roosevelt, Theodore, 1914-2001
Stockbroker Theodore Roosevelt III describes what he believes was an unusual family life growing up (i.e., his father ensured he spent time with the children), and he describes his own belief in and appreciation for the support of his wife and the value of a strong home life.
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Schauffler, Bennet F.
Labor leader Bennet Schauffler talks about the importance of keeping active in order to find happiness, that if one enjoys what one is doing and works at it, one has no time, or inclination, to argue or fight with others. He also states that boredom and inactivity have led people to conflict and materialistic greed.
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Sears, William
Broadcaster 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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Sharples, Laurence P. (Laurence Price), 1891-1976
Laurence Sharples, Head of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, describes the essential beliefs he tries to live by: keep active and busy, educate his heart and have empathy, remain honest, and create something positive to leave behind.
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Slater, Verona Wylie
Homemaker 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.
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Stassen, Harold Edward, 1907-2001
Harold Stassen, President of the University of Pennsylvania, describes Albert Schweitzer’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.
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Stevens, Lewis Miller, 1898-1963
Lawyer Lewis Stevens discusses the importance of the spirit, affection and faith in God’s love for withstanding the trials and calamity of the material world.
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Supplee, Henderson, Jr.
Businessman Henderson Suplee talks about the importance of opportunity in life and achieving harmony.
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Thayer, Eliza Talbott, 1901-1990
Sculptor 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.
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Thayer, Frederick
Banker 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.
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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.
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White, Gilbert F.
Gilbert F. White, geographer and President of Haverford College, describes his experiences as a geographer and student of earth’s natural laws, and his belief that the divine spark within every person necessitates brotherhood, tolerance, humble service, and a commitment to search for truth.
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Williams, Alfred Hector, 1893-1974
Banker and educator Alfred Williams explains his belief that we all perceive the world differently and so we need to try to approach one another with empathy, respect, and compassion, and that this attitude is particularly important in the American business world where people spend such a great deal of time and attention.
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Winsor, Curtin, d. 1998
Lawyer Curtin Winsor tells of the importance of individualism and being true to himself in the development of his beliefs and describes what some of those beliefs are.
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Pennsylvania -- Other
Buck, Pearl S. (Pearl Sydenstricker), 1892-1973
Author Pearl S. Buck finds her faith in humanity to be stronger than ever, shares her affinity for life, and believes that cooperation can solve the world’s problems.
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Carlson, H. Clifford (Henry Clifford), 1894-
H. C. Carlson describes the rewards he experiences through serving others and accomplishing simple tasks, and states his belief that the people with whom he comes into contact deserve the best he has to offer them.
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Hall, Edward T. (Edward Twitchell), 1914-2009
Edward T. Hall, Headmaster of the Hill School at Pottstown, describes how he came to believe in the efficacy of prayer.
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Harris, Roy, 1898-1979
Roy Harris, Composer-in-Residence at the Pennsylvania College for Women, describes his belief in an intelligent designer, in natural laws, in the limitations of human intelligence and the need for humility, and in the great evil and great good of which humans are capable.
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Heller, Elizabeth
Elizabeth Heller describes how her experiences with receiving and giving small gifts led her to believe that giving helps people come to know one another and reduce conflict between them; this belief led her to found the “Share Your Birthday” movement in an effort to promote international peace through the act of children sharing toys with other children across the world.
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Lester, John A. (John Ashby), 1915-1983
John Lester, Head of the English Department at the Hill School at Pottstown, explains the importance of education and sports in teaching children to be good and remembers the advice of his mentor John Meggs: that he must love his students if he is to teach them.
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McFeely, Richard H.
Teacher Richard McFeely describes how an attack of infantile paralysis (polio) shattered his dreams of a career in physical education, and how his mother’s encouragement helped him discover that life was worth living, even in misfortune.
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McKinney, Howard
Howard McKinney describes growing up in an urban city (Pittsburgh) and explains that, because the influence of a Sunday School teacher directed his life away from crime, he feels compelled to offer similar opportunities to Pittsburgh’s youth today.
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O’Leary, Thomas V.
Thomas O Leary, News Editor of the Scranton Times, 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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Vann, Jessie, 1885-1967
African American social reformer and newspaper proprietor 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.
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Washington, D.C.
Douglas, William O. (William Orville), 1898-1980
Justice Douglas, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, 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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Hampton, Wade B.
Lawyer 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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Hershey, Lewis Blaine, 1893-1977
General Hershey, Director of the Selective Service System, laments society’s fascination with technological progress and opines that society would be better off if people focused on understanding themselves, others around them and their relationships with one another.
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Jones, Galen
Galen Jones, an official in the Office of Education in the Federal Security Agency, describes his belief in the dignity of human personality, in the existence of free will, and in the responsibility of individuals to make their own choices in life.
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