Writing Competition

Dr. Edward Tick, co-founder of Soldier's Heart and author of "Heal the Warrior, Heal the Country," responds to winners of the Winter 2014 "Support for Veterans" essay competition.

We received many powerful essays for the Winter 2014 Writing Competition. Though not every participant can win the contest, we'd like to share some excerpts that caught our eye.

Read Jay’s letter to a fellow veteran about the difficulties of not feeling like a true veteran.

Read Cheyanne's letter that asks a soldier introspective questions about his journey as a soldier so she can better appreciate the freedoms she has, at the price of his.

Read Audrey's letters that voice how she is inspired by her friend's devotion and strength.

Read Blaine's letter that reaches out to a fellow soldier, encouraging him to tell his story so they will remember—and heal— together.

Read Jim's letter highlighting the unimaginable hardships of war and his gratitude towards veterans.

Read Karla's letter that discusses ethnicity and the sense of belonging to a country.

We received many powerful essays for the Fall 2013 Writing Competition. Though not every participant can win the contest, we'd like to share some excerpts that caught our eye.

Simon Okelo, author of "Growing Up in a Kenyan Slum Taught Me the Real Value of Stuff," and founder of One Vibe Africa responds to essay winners of the Fall 2013 "Simple Living" writing competition.

Read Annika's essay about the uselessness of stuff—like trophies and goodie bags.

Read Sana's essay about how her consumption habits shifted when she moved from Pakistan to the United States.

Read Nick's essay about how giving up his iPhone4 and his beloved dog Lucas would greatly affect his life.

Read Spencer’s essay about his desire to level the economic playing field so that more people can have more—and then choose less.

April Dávila, professional writer and author of "A Month Without Monsanto," responds to essay winners of the Spring 2013 "Genetically Modified Food" writing competition.