When I was a kid in the 70s, I spent my summers bailing hay for my dad. I always had a small transistor radio with me. At noon, I’d break for lunch, park the tractor under a shady tree, and tune into Paul Harvey. Hearing his voice now transports me back to those warm summers when my family—my parents, brother, grandmothers, aunts, and uncles—were all alive and well. Those memories fill me with nostalgia and a longing for simpler times.
From 1952 to 2008, Paul Harvey’s voice reached up to 24 million listeners each week. “Paul Harvey News” was broadcast on 1,200 radio stations, 400 American Forces Network stations, and published in 300 newspapers. His iconic segment, “The Rest of the Story,” became a staple for many Americans, captivating audiences with his engaging narratives and profound insights.
America found a treasure in Paul Harvey. Generations turned to him not just for his stories and wisdom, but for the calming effect of his reassuring, easily recognizable voice. His broadcasts transported listeners to another place, offering moments of introspection and deep thought. Those moments, I believe, are something we could all use more of today.
Long before his television career, Paul Harvey penned an essay that he updated several times over the years. This controversial piece, whether taken symbolically or literally, remains strikingly relevant.
In this audio clip, you’ll hear Paul Harvey read the 1996 version of that essay. It’s astounding how accurate some of his predictions have turned out to be.
Listen now to Paul Harvey’s prophetic words and reflect on their significance. Whether you find them chilling or enlightening, there’s no denying the impact of his foresight.
Paul Harvey’s legacy continues to inspire and challenge us, urging us to think deeply about the world we live in and the future we are shaping.
