This I Believe: The Personal Philosophies of Remarkable Men and Women (This I Believe, 1)

a rich, inspiring, and marvelous reach for me to find out about and to read whole-heartedly!!

Bought for class assignment and wasn’t disappointed.

This book really inspired me and gave me new perspective. Now, I am inspired to write what I believe and submit it. Read it, you will not be disappointed!

"This I Believe" can be approached as a quick read of a couple hours or a casual read with occasional stops to contemplate the latest essay. Even though the collection is an extract from a large number of contributions, there will be some you can skim right through, thinking, "yeah, whatever" or that it wasn't that interesting a thought. I admit I felt almost guilty for not giving some of the authors more than a moment's notice, considering the person was talking about a core belief with passion. My guess is that a typical reader will feel the same, only for a different group within the diverse set.However, there are others that should prompt more serious thought. After all, the purpose of the essays is two-fold: give a window into what other people hold true, and also promote thinking about one's own values and beliefs. To me, it's less important to try to write my own essay than to ponder whether I agree with the author's belief, or how it might apply to me, or whether I recall family members or others with similar beliefs.Even so, these are not long, deep essays, given the limit of a couple of minutes when spoken. The ones focused on religion, for example, are only a key thought or two, usually with a relevant example of their application or their origin. Others recall an important moment or two in one's life, perhaps where somebody else made a difference in the author's future. These are often the most personal and best essays.I found "This I Believe" on NPR. The ones I recall from this book are fine as short essays, but they are even better on the radio. The amusing take on barbeque is an example: made to be spoken. Many others are really personal stories that read well, yet probably would be an even nicer CD for the car.The mixture of famous people and "regular" (albeit articulate enough) people was absolutely necessary. Reprinting some from the 1950s was a good touch, showing that many beliefs hold true fifty years later, as you would expect. The new essay by a woman who also contributed fifty years ago was one of the highlights.The book could maybe have used some "bad guys" or cynics to express their beliefs. The authors are good folks (please leave aside whether you think Bill Gates, Newt Gingrich, etc. are "good"), in that they describe positive beliefs and values, people who often want to make a positive contribution to the world. Maybe some meanies or troublemakers could have explained what beliefs made them tick, too.The background on the original "This I Believe" from the 1950s complements the individual contributions and was very helpful. Jay Allison's introduction also nicely reviews the genesis of the NPR program and how the process unfolded.

It arrived in perfect condition new it was for my UNIV 1301 class. UTEP

I keep this book in my purse and take it out when I have a few spare minutes. The short personal essays are inspirational without being too cheesy. I find that the "Chicken Soup" books are too heavy for me, and usually make me cry. The essays in "Believe" are less emotional. They are light-hearted and cover a wide range of topics such as the environment, politics, religion and human interaction. They are submitted from all types of people in all facets of life. The book also includes essays from the original 1950s radio program. Each essay only takes a few minutes to read, so its great if you don't have enough time to sit and read for a while.

I bought this book becuase I myself am researching the difference between personal philosophies and traditional ones. While this book gave me some guidance, it does read like a chicken soup for the soul with a more finite focus. Some of the stories are great and really moving most though just fall under the category of blan recycled cookie cutter philosophy. As promising as the book is I just felt it could have been a bit deeper. For the few good ones in there and to feel apart of history as this book was based on a 1950 radio spot I would pick it up again but as a read for true personal growth may be best to skip it.

80 essays. For me, 25 gems, the remained are good to very good. The anecdote from John McCain when he was a prisoner of war still gives me goose bumps. Jackie Robinson's and Helen Keller's essays are reminders of who we are: children of God. Will purchase the other two "This I Believe" books. Have written my own "This I Believe" and will submit for publication. A hidden gem of this book is to suggest you go deep within yourself and ask yourself, "What do I believe?" A fine legacy to pass on to future generations.

El envío fue muy rápido, llegó al día siguiente de que realicé el pedido y todos los artículos estaban en perfecto estado.

Not very interesting.

Great accessible history and philosophy - could you sum up your"This I believe " in 600 words?