Letters of Gratitude Challenge Winners

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We invited you to pause and reflect on the people who have shaped your journey, to write heartfelt letters of gratitude, and to inspire others with your stories. Whether it was a mentor who ignited your curiosity, a friend who stood by you in tough times, or even a fleeting encounter that resonated deeply, your letters brought the art of gratitude to life.

The challenge was simple but profound:

• Write a letter between 600–1,000 words in length.
• Share it exclusively in the Humans community.
• Reflect on someone who has impacted your life and express your heartfelt thanks.

We were deeply moved by your letters. Each story opened a window into personal connections, inspiring us with narratives of love, resilience, and gratitude. After careful deliberation, here are the winners:

🏆 $500 Grand Prize Winner: Dear 1306 by Lizzy Rose

“Dear 1306” is a deeply moving letter that captures how teaching transformed the writer’s life, giving her purpose and passion. Lizzy Rose’s authenticity and gratitude shine as she credits her students with inspiring her journey from hopelessness to meaning. Its emotional depth and universal resonance made it stand out.

🥈 $200 Second Place: Dharrsheena Raja Segarran by Cindy🎀

“Dear Dharrsheena” is a heartfelt tribute to the profound impact one Vocal writer has on another. The letter captures the transformative inspiration derived from Dharrsheena’s work, celebrating her fearlessness in exploring raw emotions and universal truths. Its recognition of her contributions as both a writer and a supportive community member showcases the deep connection and gratitude that makes Vocal a vibrant creative space.

🎖️ Runners-up: $20 Each

Sophronia Katherine Graves by Lamar Wiggins

"Sophronia Katherine Graves" beautifully captures the enduring love and gratitude for a remarkable figure in the writer’s life. Through vivid memories and heartfelt reflections, the letter paints Aunt Sophie as a source of warmth, wisdom, and strength. Balancing tender moments with profound loss, it conveys the timeless impact of her love and guidance in a deeply moving way.

"Action!" by Meagan Dion

“Action!” captures the profound ripple effect of a seemingly ordinary moment. Through a chance conversation, the writer’s life is transformed by a spark of inspiration that leads to a passion for filmmaking, lifelong love, and a journey of personal growth. The narrative is deeply personal yet universally resonant, illustrating how a single connection can shape destiny in unexpected and meaningful ways.

a soft love by Poppy

“A Soft Love” is a beautifully heartfelt letter that captures the bittersweet emotions of love and loss. The writing feels raw and poetic, full of vivid imagery and quiet longing. It’s the kind of piece that sticks with you, making you reflect on those connections that leave an imprint on your soul. The way it expresses gratitude for a love that changed the writer, even in its absence, feels so honest and relatable. It’s not just a letter—it’s a tribute to the power of love and memory.

A Special Tribute to Officer Joseph by Anthony Chan

This heartfelt letter is a beautiful tribute to the life-changing impact of a compassionate act. Anthony vividly recounts the darkest moment of his young life and how Officer Joseph’s kind words gave him purpose and strength when he needed it most. The story is a testament to how a single moment of empathy can create a lasting ripple effect, shaping a life and offering hope where there was none.

Navigating Beyond the Wreckage by Annie Edwards

This letter captures a profound journey of self-discovery and healing, fueled by the unwavering support of a compassionate mentor. The author eloquently expresses how Anna’s belief in her creativity, wisdom, and worth provided the strength to navigate life’s darkest moments. It’s a deeply personal and inspiring tribute to the transformative power of genuine encouragement and a reminder of how impactful one person’s faith can be in shaping another’s path.

Dear Isabel by Rick Henry Christopher

This heartfelt letter is a moving testament to a son’s unconditional love and dedication to his mother as she battles blindness and advanced dementia. It beautifully captures the emotional complexity of caregiving—the challenges, sacrifices, and moments of profound connection. The author’s vivid memories of his mother’s humor, beauty, and love contrast poignantly with her current struggles, making this an intimate and deeply human story of resilience and devotion.

Echoes of Kindness by Jennifer Lancaster

This heartfelt piece captures three profound acts of kindness from strangers—a boy bringing gas, a calming voice during a driving panic, and a silent reassurance with a sign. These brief but impactful moments highlight the enduring power of empathy and how small gestures can leave lifelong impressions.

Faith, Fear and Gratitude by Matthew Mccahey

This deeply moving letter reflects a son’s journey through sobriety and the unwavering support of his mother. It conveys profound gratitude for her tough love, sacrifices, and unwavering belief in him, even through his darkest moments. With vulnerability and sincerity, the writer honors his mother’s strength and the life lessons she imparted, making it a heartfelt tribute to love, resilience, and redemption.

Dear Coach by Bryan Buffkin

This letter beautifully captures the profound gratitude of a coach for his mentor, Coach Don Williams. It reflects on a seemingly simple moment—a ride on a John Deere Gator—that became a symbol of genuine care and mentorship. Through heartfelt anecdotes, the letter honors Coach Williams’ unwavering kindness, his impact as a role model, and the legacy he leaves behind as he retires. It’s a moving tribute to a man who has shaped not just athletes but also colleagues, embodying the true spirit of leadership and humanity.

A Letter of Gratitude to My High School Art Teacher by Neli Ivanova

This letter highlights the profound impact of a teacher’s belief and encouragement. Mrs. Anderson’s support helped the writer find their voice through art, navigate personal struggles, and embrace creativity as a means of healing. Her influence extends far beyond the classroom, shaping a legacy of compassion and resilience that now inspires others through an art therapy program. It’s a heartfelt tribute to a teacher who changed a life.

Seasons of Love by H.H. Callaghan

This heartfelt letter beautifully chronicles the seasons of love shared between the writer and their husband. Through vivid imagery and tender reflections, it celebrates the transformative power of love, resilience, and unwavering support. Each metaphor—spring’s renewal, summer’s warmth, autumn’s change, and winter’s enduring comfort—captures the profound depth of their bond, making it a poignant tribute to a lifelong partnership rooted in gratitude and devotion.

Dear Mr. Childs by Rachel Deeming

This touching letter reflects the profound impact a teacher can have on a student’s life, not just in the classroom but across decades. The writer vividly recounts the encouragement, humor, and validation Mr. Childs offered, sparking a lifelong love of storytelling and creativity. With heartfelt gratitude, they celebrate the enduring power of his belief in their potential, culminating in a poignant farewell that honors his lasting influence.

To My Big Love by Henrik Hageland

This heartfelt letter captures a lifetime of love, resilience, and shared memories between two partners. It reflects on their journey, from a serendipitous meeting to facing life’s challenges together, highlighting Peter’s creativity, kindness, and strength. With deep gratitude and love, the author honors their partner’s legacy, bidding a tender farewell to a bond that profoundly shaped their life.

Tales of a Fourth Grade Dragon by Alison McBain

This letter thanks a fourth-grade teacher, Mr. Vadney, for inspiring creativity and making learning joyful. His gift of My Father’s Dragon left a lasting impact, becoming a cherished memory and a source of inspiration for Alison’s writing and her children. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the enduring influence of a dedicated teacher.

To the Wounds That Shaped Us by Nas

This letter honors a woman who became a mother figure during the author’s darkest moments, teaching empathy and resilience through shared stories and love. Though the author regrets not saying goodbye, they vow to keep her memory alive, carrying forward the lessons and love that helped them heal.

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