The Moment That Changed Everything Challenge Winners

In today’s world, change happens fast—and sometimes, it takes just one moment to send ripples across lives, communities, and even the globe. This challenge asked Vocal creators to explore the pivotal moments that define our time.

From personal revelations to world-altering events, the stories we received captured the urgency, resilience, and humanity of a world on the brink of transformation. The creativity and depth of each submission made choosing winners an incredibly difficult task, but after careful consideration, we’re excited to reveal the final selections.

🏆 $500 Grand Prize Winner: 47 and Fifth by Addison Alder

Addison Alder's story '47 and Fifth' captivates with its vivid imagery and intense narrative, placing it as the Grand Prize winner. Addison masterfully captures the tension and urgency of a pivotal moment, drawing readers into the chaotic scene with a journalist's keen eye for detail. The story's exploration of media influence and societal division is both timely and thought-provoking, making it a standout piece that resonates with the theme of a single moment altering the course of history.

🥈 $200 Second Place: Broken Glass by Matthew Fromm

Matthew Fromm's story 'Broken Glass' draws readers in with its striking depiction of change and loss in a small town. His evocative writing style vividly portrays an idyllic setting disrupted by a storm, serving as a powerful metaphor for societal upheaval. The narrative’s subtlety and depth encourage readers to reflect on how seemingly small moments can build into significant change. Fromm’s ability to craft a story that resonates on both a personal and communal level is what earned Broken Glass its well-deserved second place.

🎖️ Runners-up: $15 Each

"Everything in my Wallet" by Stephen A. Roddewig

Stephen A. Roddewig's story 'Everything in my Wallet' earns its place as a Runner-Up for its poignant exploration of empathy and survival. Stephen masterfully captures the harsh realities faced by homeless veterans, weaving a narrative that highlights the power of a single act of kindness. The story's emotional depth and the vivid portrayal of the protagonist's resilience make it a compelling read that resonates with the reader long after the last word. The moment of generosity depicted serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the profound impact of compassion in the face of adversity.

Giovanni the Valiant, or, Giovanni the Murderer by Sam Spinelli

Sam Spinelli's story 'Giovanni the Valiant, or, Giovanni the Murderer' engages with its rich historical context and emotional depth. The narrative thoughtfully explores the transformative journey of St. Francis of Assisi, offering a compelling glimpse into a pivotal moment that may have inspired his lifelong commitment to peace. Spinelli's vivid descriptions and heartfelt characterizations bring the past to life, allowing readers to connect with Giovanni's internal struggle and ultimate redemption. This story stands out for its seamless blend of historical fiction and psychological insight, making it a deserving runner-up.

If it looks like a duck by Meagan Dion

Meagan Dion's story 'If it looks like a duck' captivates with its thought-provoking exploration of ethics and personal belief in the face of societal and political upheaval. Her narrative skillfully intertwines historical and contemporary events, creating a powerful reflection on the importance of individual moral compass amidst collective turmoil. The story's strength lies in its ability to challenge readers to consider their own values and choices, making it a deserving runner-up in this contest.

It Takes But A Second by Colleen Millsteed

Colleen Millsteed's story 'It Takes But A Second' resonates with its powerful narrative of rediscovery and resilience. Colleen's ability to convey the emotional turmoil and eventual triumph of finding her missing husband after 21.5 years is both compelling and inspiring. The story beautifully illustrates how a single moment can alter the course of one's life, offering hope and a renewed sense of freedom. Her vivid storytelling and emotional depth make this piece a deserving runner-up in the contest.

Hope Borne of Misfortune by Killian

Killian's story, 'Hope Borne of Misfortune,' earns its place as a runner-up for its compelling narrative that beautifully intertwines personal and global stakes. Killian masterfully captures the protagonist's emotional journey and dedication to curing cancer, making readers empathize with her struggles and triumphs. The story's pivotal moment, where a personal tragedy aligns with a global opportunity, is portrayed with sensitivity and hope, highlighting the transformative power of perseverance and scientific progress. This tale resonates with the theme of change, showcasing how one individual's relentless pursuit can potentially alter countless lives.

Fish in a Barrel by M.C. Finch

M.C. Finch's story 'Fish in a Barrel' stands out as a runner-up for its vivid portrayal of a pivotal historical moment that altered the course of American history. Finch masterfully captures the raw emotions and disbelief of patrons in a Manhattan lounge as they learn of President Kennedy's assassination, immersing readers in the atmosphere of shock and camaraderie. The story's rich details and authentic dialogue transport the audience to 1963, making them feel the weight of the moment alongside the characters. Finch's ability to weave personal interactions with a significant historical event creates a compelling narrative that resonates with the theme of transformation.

Cracked by Steph Marie

Steph Marie's story 'Cracked' fascinates with its intriguing exploration of a seemingly perfect world hiding a dystopian reality. The narrative skillfully builds tension as Reya uncovers the unsettling truth beneath the city's facade, drawing readers into her journey of discovery and rebellion. The story's strength lies in its vivid imagery and the emotional depth of Reya's internal conflict, leaving readers pondering the cost of truth and freedom. Steph's ability to weave a compelling tale of awakening and resistance earned 'Cracked' its well-deserved place as a runner-up.

Asylum by Alison McBain

Alison McBain's story 'Asylum' engages with its powerful exploration of identity, prejudice, and resilience. Alison skillfully crafts a narrative that challenges readers to reflect on the impact of societal fears and the courage required to stand against injustice. The emotional depth and vivid world-building provide a compelling backdrop for the protagonist's journey, making it a poignant and thought-provoking piece that resonates with the theme of a single moment altering the course of lives.

Cure for the Bitter Cold by Bailey Bainbridge

Bailey Bainbridge's story 'Cure for the Bitter Cold' stands out for its vivid portrayal of a prehistoric moment that forever altered the course of human history. Bainbridge masterfully crafts a tale of survival and discovery, where Agni's encounter with a sabretooth leads to the accidental discovery of fire. The narrative is rich with tension and imagery, immersing readers in the primal struggle against nature, and ultimately celebrating the resilience and ingenuity that defines humanity. This story stands out for its imaginative exploration of a pivotal moment that changed the world, earning its place as a runner-up.

The Making of a Ghost by J. Nicholas Merchen

J. Nicholas Merchen's story, 'The Making of a Ghost,' earns its place as a Runner-Up for its poignant exploration of loss and change in a small town. Merchen masterfully captures the emotional weight of returning to a place that once thrived, only to find it a shadow of its former self. The narrative is rich with vivid imagery and nostalgia, evoking a deep sense of empathy for the characters and their connection to Grayson. This story beautifully illustrates the impact of economic shifts on communities, making it a compelling and memorable read.

Beyond by Josey Pickering

Josey Pickering's story 'Beyond' stands out for its vivid depiction of a pivotal moment that alters humanity's trajectory. Josey skillfully captures the innocence and curiosity of a child witnessing a historic event, juxtaposed with the profound impact of a failed mission to Mars. The narrative beautifully explores themes of hope, loss, and the human condition, leaving readers with a poignant reflection on our collective future. The story's emotional depth and imaginative storytelling earned it a well-deserved runner-up position.

Maquillage by Gerard DiLeo

Gerard DiLeo's story 'Maquillage' intrigues with its unique exploration of the power dynamics between a President and a seemingly ordinary cosmetologist. Gerard's narrative skillfully highlights how small, personal interactions can have profound impacts on larger events, capturing the essence of the prompt's theme. The story stands out for its insightful commentary on leadership and the subtle, yet significant, roles individuals play in shaping history. The engaging dialogue and introspective moments create a compelling narrative that resonates with readers, earning it a well-deserved runner-up position.

Song of the Seven by Kali Mailhot

Kali Mailhot's story 'Song of the Seven' earns its place as a runner-up due to its compelling narrative that intertwines personal and global transformation. Kali skillfully captures the urgency of a pivotal moment, blending the personal journey of the protagonist with the broader societal shifts occurring simultaneously. The story's vivid imagery and rhythmic prose create a powerful atmosphere, while the protagonist's resolve to inspire change resonates deeply with the reader. This tale stands out for its ability to seamlessly weave together themes of individual action and collective impact, leaving a lasting impression.

{ } by Arne Nasgot

Arne Nasgot's story beautifully captures the essence of hope and the harsh reality of dreams deferred. The narrative's strength lies in its vivid depiction of Han's internal struggle and the poignant realization of her circumstances. The story's emotional depth and the powerful imagery of Mora create a compelling backdrop for Han's transformative moment. This evocative tale of resilience and acceptance earns its place as a runner-up, leaving readers with a lasting impression of the power of dreams and the courage to face reality.

Learning to love my brain by Kristen Knutson

Kristen Knutson's story 'Learning to love my brain' earns its place as a Runner-Up due to its deeply personal and transformative exploration of self-discovery. Kristen's narrative beautifully captures the pivotal moment of receiving an ADHD diagnosis later in life and the subsequent journey of self-acceptance. Her vivid recounting of memories and internal struggles resonates with authenticity, offering readers a powerful message of resilience and the importance of self-love. The story's heartfelt conclusion leaves a lasting impression, encouraging others to embrace their unique traits and find strength in vulnerability.

🏅 Honorable Mentions

As our challenges continue to grow, we are celebrating even more incredible writers with Honorable Mentions—a special spotlight for stories that stand out for their creativity, originality, or emotional impact. Writers who receive an Honorable Mention get a special badge that appears on their profile, showcasing their achievement and contributions to the Vocal community.

• Little Tommy Stood Up by Paul Stewart
• Where Will You Be in 5 Years? by sleepy drafts
• Divided We Fall by D.K. Shepard
• Love you, Mom by Barb Dukeman
• The Memory Keeper by Katie L. Oswald (BookDragon)
• The Iraq War by Aaron Michael Grant
• Indivisible by Raistlin Allen
• The Big Apple in Red by Jessica S Flayser
• Spare Changing by Talia Frank
• Defining the Moment by Blake Johnson

To explore more Challenges, please visit Vocal Challenges.