Do angels or spiritual guardians really exist? Award-winning former newspaper reporter John Ronner spent the 1970s and 1980s covering the news for major outlets, earning recognition from the Associated Press and others, before turning his attention in the mid-1980s to reports of angelic encounters. After speaking with hundreds of people about their experiences, Ronner suggested that powerful premonitions, hearing a disembodied voice offering warning or comfort, or unexplained interventions during moments of crisis may point to angelic involvement.

He distinguished angels from departed loved ones, noting that the two are not traditionally considered the same. Ronner also said he believed in life after death "beyond a reasonable doubt," citing accounts in which dying individuals appeared aware of events around them, and even the thoughts of those nearby. He argued that skepticism toward paranormal phenomena was softening among some members of the intellectual community, making room for a more measured discussion. Ronner also shared stories of "angels in disguise," mysterious helpers who appear in times of need, offer assistance, and then vanish without explanation.