Challenge
Word’s poorest country
Burundi, a small nation in the heart of Africa, is tragically known for its status as one of the world's poorest countries. With a population of approximately 12.5 million, its citizens grapple with a harsh reality of extreme poverty and widespread unhappiness. The depth of these challenges is starkly evident in the country's average annual income of a mere $180, coupled with a persistent issue of high unemployment rates. In a relentless struggle for survival, families of eight are forced to make do with meager monthly earnings of just $15.
By Samuel Kamano11 months ago in Writers
Small Stories
Introduction A while back Vocal dropped its limits on certain communities for certain challenges. While part of me was against this being permanent, I have come around to the thought that this could be beneficial at times for creators, including myself.
By Mike Singleton - Mikeydred11 months ago in Writers
A Humble Champion
In the rolling hills of Norway, where fjords meet the sea, Victor Hovland's story unfolded like a tale of humility and perseverance. From the very beginning, he displayed an unwavering dedication to his craft, his humble demeanor matched only by his boundless passion for golf.
By Mentor okafor11 months ago in Writers
The 700 Word Riddle
In a world where time's mysteries intertwine, a narrative unfolds across 700 words. Picture a realm where the past, present, and future converge, shrouded in a puzzle that demands to be unraveled. At the heart of this temporal enigma lies a key, guarded by the ancient Chrono Keeper, a sage wise beyond measure.
By Misal Sahoo11 months ago in Writers
Writer Part II. Top Story - August 2023.
I wish I still had the first two stories that I wrote. Unfortunately, they have been lost in the annals of time. They are probably slowly returning to dust in some landfill, piled under years and years of items that other people considered junk to be tossed away. In my darkest days, I feel like those mostly forgotten pieces of paper are just rotting away under years and years of junk that I have piled upon myself. Not today. Today I dive deep, remember some of what was lost, and attempt to dig myself out and be reborn.
By Jason McCoy11 months ago in Writers
Still-Gate: How a Five Letter Error Made Me Question Everything
Last Friday, August 11, I logged into my email to make sure I wasn't missing anything glaring at work while enjoying a Florida beach vacation with my family. I was surprised to find two comments of congratulations from my fellow writers on a poem I had submitted to the Short and Sweet Challenge. It was a surprise because the challenge winners were supposed to be announced on Thursday, August 10. Even though I never expected my poem, "On Marriage and Summer Squash," to place, I had scanned the winner announcements on Vocal dutifully that Thursday and experienced a brief second of disappointment that I wasn't listed there before reminding myself I have yet to crack poetry and that I could try again another time. Then it was back to the beach with my family for some much-needed sun, salt, and sand.
By L.A. Hancock11 months ago in Writers
Legacy and generational impact
In the heart of Canada, where the fields echoed with the shouts of soccer enthusiasts, lived a legend named Sarah Mitchell. For over a decade, she had graced the pitch as the stalwart of the Canadian women's soccer team. Her dedication, resilience, and unyielding spirit had carried her team through victories and defeats alike. But as the Women's World Cup approached, Sarah knew that this tournament would be her swan song.
By Mentor okafor11 months ago in Writers
Two Year Review
Two years ago, was my first story posted on Vocal. The writer's challenge has asked the authors to review the first thing we wrote. As I scrolled back through many pages of stories, I smiled at the first writing I made. Two years ago, my first writing was about my daughter.
By Sheila L. Chingwa11 months ago in Writers
The Race Called Life
Once upon a time, there was a young boy who had a strong desire for success. Winning meant everything to him, and he measured his success solely by his victories. One day, the boy was getting ready for a running competition in his small village. Two other boys were also competing, and a large crowd had gathered to witness the event. Hearing about the little boy, a wise old man traveled from afar to witness the spectacle. As the race began, it seemed like a close contest at the finish line. However, the boy summoned his determination, strength, and power, ultimately crossing the finish line first. The crowd erupted in cheers and applause, while the wise man remained calm and unaffected. Although the little boy felt proud and significant, the wise man showed no sentiment. Another race was announced, and two new challengers stepped forward to compete against the boy. Once again, the boy came out on top, finishing first. The crowd cheered and waved enthusiastically, but the wise man remained stoic and unemotional. The little boy, however, felt an overwhelming sense of pride and importance. The little boy eagerly pleaded for another race. This time, the wise old man presented him with two new challengers—a frail elderly lady and a blind man. Confused, the boy questioned the race, claiming it was not a fair competition. However, the wise man insisted on proceeding. When the race began, the little boy was the only one to cross the finish line, leaving the other two challengers far behind. The boy celebrated with raised arms, but the crowd remained silent, showing no reaction. Perplexed, the boy asked the wise old man why the people did not join in his success. The wise man simply replied, "Race again." He suggested that all three participants finish together. The little boy pondered for a moment, standing between the blind man and the frail old lady. Then, he took both challengers by the hand, and they began the race. The little boy deliberately walked slowly, almost at a snail's pace, toward the finish line. Eventually, they all crossed it together. This time, the crowd was ecstatic, cheering and waving at the boy. The wise man smiled softly and nodded approvingly. The little boy felt a renewed sense of pride and significance. Curious, the boy asked the wise old man who the crowd was cheering for among the three of them. The wise man looked into the boy's eyes, placing his hands on his shoulders, and gently replied, "Little boy, in this race, you have achieved much more than in any race you have ever run before. The crowd is not cheering for any individual winner in life. In your life, what are you running for? Are you solely focused on success? Is winning the only measure of your life? Who are you competing against? If you always win against everyone, eventually people will stop celebrating your victories. When you look back, consider who ran alongside you in this race. Did you assist the weaker and older participants in crossing the finish line? Did you all finish together? Because that is the most meaningful race you can ever run. So, run this race called life, but remember that winning is not important. It is how you run this race that truly matters."
By lonestar0811 months ago in Writers