It’s About Time to ‘Live Not By Lies’

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For over two decades, Rod Dreher has emphasized that strong communities, deep faith, and agricultural lifestyles foster connections to what truly matters, surpassing the fleeting impact of shifting political trends and technological innovations.

It’s no wonder that Dreher is concerned with upholding truth, given his role in shaping intellectual discussions and acknowledging clear facts. This resonates with Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s sentiments expressed in a 1974 essay: “Choosing to live authentically, not by deception.

The core principle highlighted in Dreher’s book “Live Not By Lies” is more prominent than in any of his other works such as “Living in Wonder”, “The Benedict Option”, or “Crunchy Cons”. In simpler terms, the main idea presented in “Live Not By Lies” stands out as being particularly significant among Dreher’s other books.

Angel Studios brings a four-part series on the subject to screens this week.

In “Live Not By Lies,” it’s clear that deception ultimately results in destruction, and humanity faces a significant task in upholding honesty.

Jordan Harmon, president of Angel Studios, expressed that the reaction from Angel Guild members towards their docuseries was “truly exceptional” or “simply remarkable”.

In simpler terms, the series explores the heartfelt journey of human struggle and victory. It delves into the real-life accounts of those who survived Soviet totalitarianism, transforming their tales into a potent narrative that highlights resilience, faith, and the enduring fight against oppression, as mentioned in an Angel Studios announcement.

The show intends to detail the grim truths of previous authoritarian rule, while simultaneously investigating how these insights might be relevant to contemporary issues like ‘soft totalitarianism’ in Western societies, as defined by Dreher.

The series has even gained the attention of Vice President J.D. Vance

For numerous Americans, it’s a frequent and disheartening occurrence when their sincerely held views are suppressed or muted on social media networks.

Censorship can clear a path for propaganda, which enjoys backing from certain government entities. Far from being widely admired, the First Amendment is sometimes viewed as an “impediment” by some communication professionals.

Large amounts of public money are being spent on combating what authorities label as “misinformation” and “disinformation,” as well as creating propaganda that supports policies not explicitly outlined in the Constitution, by federal government officials.

Pondering over historical events, Dreher proposes that individuals who prioritize honesty should nurture relationships and groups that are substantial yet manageable, so they can uphold this value regardless of any potential changes in a society that endorses deception.

With rural communities experiencing a surge in popularity, the author of “The Benedict Option” suggests that Americans should not miss out on cultivating tight-knit, high-trust communities, even while residing within the grid. Neighborhoods, churches, and online groups provide excellent opportunities to practice speaking honestly with others.

In a recent interview with trustworthy news outlets, Mennonite parents, who have several children, addressed false rumors about their family. Their statements shed light on the connection between honesty, truth, and community amidst misrepresentations.

Why should the principle of honesty only extend to the boundaries of any specific harmonious group? A society built on sincerity serves as a spark, igniting the passion within individuals who are inclined towards spreading truth far and wide.

In the real world, the production company responsible for “Live Not By Lies” is Root/Cause, where Isaiah Smallman takes charge as the director. RJ Moeller and Dave Jacobson serve as the show’s producers.

In this role as Executive Producer, Dreher emphasizes that this documentary series is not just about reminiscing the past but also preparing for the future. The perspectives of those who have experienced the bleakest aspects of totalitarian rule are crucial; they provide us with a guiding light of truth in tough times.

As mentioned in the press release, I’ve been transported from the bustling streets of once Soviet territories to the intimate spaces where survivors reside, having endured one of the most lethal centuries known to history.

You can now watch ‘Live Not By Lies’ on the Angel Studios platform! The series unfolds over four intriguing episodes, with fresh segments being released every week.

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2025-04-02 02:03