This I Believe

In college, playwright Louise V. Gray had a passionate romance with another young writer. Then just before their wedding, the relationship faltered and they went their separate ways. Now years later, Gray is still grateful for that time with her lover.

Jessica Mercer Zerr: The Love I Choose

Silence is usually defined as the lack of sound. But for Dianne Aprile, silence is not the lack of something; it is something unto itself—something both powerful and necessary in our lives.

In the cold, dark months of winter, Emily Walshe yearns for some quiet time, but work and family obligations often keep her too busy to slow down. Walshe believes we need a period of rest and reflection to help us be more productive the remainder of the year.

For many people, work defines the pace of their lives. That’s especially true for New England dairyman Dave Stewart. He believes his cows help him appreciate the slower rhythms of the natural world, and embrace the responsibilities of farm and family life.

Playing cards or board games has been an important part of Pamela Rothbard's life since she was a child who was allowed to stay up past bedtime and play with the adults. Now, as a parent, playing games with her own children gives her family an opportunity to do something together and share in each other's lives.

As a young immigrant to America, Becky Sun heard about a magical man who brings Christmas presents. Unfortunately, her parents didn’t know about the tradition, so Santa failed to visit their house. When she finally met Santa years later, he gave Sun a memorable gift.

In a brief encounter with an eight-year-old boy, Marianne Bachleder heard some words of wisdom that she carries with her to this day. In this world of consumerism and greed, she is reminded to be happy with what she has.

As a writer, Silas House doesn't like to use the word "love" too much. But, when it comes to his dogs, House knows that they embody love in every sense of the word.

As a public servant, Rob Wonderling believes that one individual, regardless of how much power or prestige they have, can make all the difference in the world.

Julie Kendrick believes in making soup. But not just because it's nourishing to body and soul during Minnesota winters. She also believes that making—and sharing—soup with friends builds connections within her community.

While working a summer job in South Africa, Peggy Ramin found that she acquired a skill she hadn't expected to learn. When she closed her mouth and opened her heart, she learned to really listen to the stories of those around her.

After a divorce, Robin Dake began to make new decisions about the people and things she brought into her life. By digging beneath the noise and chaos of everyday life, she relearned how to listen to her inner voice and found her authentic self.

Michael Somers has always noticed the small details of life, from complimenting a friend on a new hairstyle to watching his family's farm change with the seasons. Somers believes it's important to pay attention to the world around him.

When Clint Morehead was still in medical school, he often spent upwards of 10 hours a day studying at the library. More important than the aesthetics of the space around him, Morehead finds that libraries provide a valuable place to go—inside himself.