Lessons for Life a Meaningful New Writing Contest

The Laws of Life Essay Contest awards prizes to middle school and high school students for writing essays on a "law of life" they have discovered through personal experience. High school senior Alex Wilson wrote, "I investigated all areas of my life and decided to write about love, the importance of giving, and the fact that I am never alone." Wilson won third prize for his essay at a recent awards banquet in Jackson, Miss.

The contest was initiated by Sir John Templeton, the internationally recognized investment manager, and is inspired by his successful book, Discovering the Laws of Life. Templeton's vision is to encourage young people to write about their own "laws of life." Each contest is sponsored locally by an individual or organization concerned with character education. Volunteers, community leaders and school officials serve as judges to select winning essays that effectively illustrate a personal virtue-like perseverance, compassion, generosity or self-reliance.

First instituted in Templeton's hometown of Winchester, Tennessee, the program is expanding rapidly throughout the U.S. The contest has attracted the attention of foundations, organizations and individuals who have replicated the contest in nine other states, including New York, Florida, Minnesota, Connecticut, and California. Plus Magazine, published by the Peale Center for Christian Living, recently completed a Laws of Life contest offered to its readers.

If your school or community is interested in starting a Laws of Life Essay Contest, contact: The John Templeton Foundation, Two Radnor Corporate Center, Suite 320, 100 Matsonford Rd., Radnor, PA 19087; 1-800-245-1285.(NAPSI)

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