San Gabriel Writers' League Annual Essay Contest Highlights Local Talent and Storytelling

The San Gabriel Writers’ League (SGWL) recently wrapped up its annual Essay Contest, spotlighting the creative talents of writers across Central Texas. Open to both members and non-members, this year’s competition invited essays of 1,500 words or fewer centered on the theme, “Turning Points.” Writers explored defining moments, unexpected detours, and life-changing decisions in pieces that were heartfelt, humorous, and thought-provoking.

Submissions were judged on originality, emotional resonance, clarity, and connection to the theme. Winners were announced during a special SGWL meeting and received prizes, editorial feedback, and opportunities to share their work through the League’s newsletter and website.

Founded in 1989, SGWL’s mission is to encourage and help writers of all ages and skill levels achieve their potential in the written word. The League supports this mission through educational programs and networking, holding informative monthly meetings on writing and publishing, sponsoring public events, and offering access to workshops, conferences, and critique groups.

With members ranging from beginners to published authors, SGWL fosters a welcoming, informal atmosphere where editors, illustrators, and publishers often join the conversation. Award-winning author and speaker D.A. Featherling serves as vice president and program coordinator, helping organize engaging sessions on popular writing topics and the business of authorship.

The annual Essay Contest is one of many ways SGWL champions storytelling, community, and continued learning. Whether you're drafting your first story or fine-tuning your next book, the League offers support, connection, and inspiration for every step of the journey.

Everyone is welcome! For more information on SGWL membership, upcoming events, or future contests, scan the code to visit SanGabrielWriters.com.

 First place: Constance Odom (left) for "The Good Luck Charm", $500 prize.

 Second place: Martha McAlister (center-right) for "Venice in the Hood", $250 prize.

 Third place: Tracy Gilliam (right) for "LifeLessons", $100 prize.

Readers can look forward to reading excerpts from the second- and third-place winning stories in our upcoming June and July issues.

"The Good Luck Charm" by Constance Odom

Evelyn was a glass half empty person. She would often tell people if she didn’t have bad luck, she would have no luck at all. And unfortunately, she was right. Unlucky things just happened to Evelyn. No doubt about it, if someone was going to drop a cell phone and smash the screen, permanently stain a new shirt or step in gum, it would be Evelyn Moore.

She would meet up with a friend for coffee and start with, “Guess what happened to me?” The puzzled friend would have absolutely no clue, because it could have been anything, as long as it was tragic. As sure as eggs is eggs, the event, whatever it was, would have cost Evelyn time, money or some other setback.

So it was when Evelyn left for work on a Sunday afternoon. She worked in an accessories shop selling handbags, scarves, jewelry, hats and the like. Evelyn had a talent for matching colors and textures to create the perfect combination for a fashionable evening out or a routine day at the office. The job had good hours and paid the rent, but her true love was making jewelry. One day she hoped to have a store of her own featuring her unique pieces. She sold a few items on Etsy, but didn’t have the time to dedicate to her side hustle. She also lacked the confidence to take the next step. After all, with her luck, her chance for success was as slim as the silk thread in the scarves she sold and could slip through her hands just as easily.

She was running late, another unfortunate trait, when she rounded a corner in a hurry and bumped into an older woman. The woman was standing against the side of the building trying to keep out of the wind that blew harsh between the buildings. Evelyn caught the woman’s arm to steady them both and noticed the woman had on a tattered coat and scuffed boots that were separating from the sole. She had a box on the ground with a sign asking for donations to help her get a room and a meal.

Evelyn had a soft spot for people in difficult times. She felt like most of her life had been difficult, although not the types of difficulties this woman must have. Since she nearly knocked the woman down, she felt the least she could do was drop some money into her box. She only had a $20 bill on her, so she dropped it in and apologized profusely for almost knocking her down.

The old woman grasped her hand and looked deep into Evelyn’s eyes.

“Thank you,” she said with sincerity and a slight accent Evelyn couldn’t place. “You are too kind. Let me give you something back.”

Thrusting something small and round into Evelyn’s hand, the woman continued, “This is a lucky charm. I think you could use some luck today.

To read the rest of "The Good Luck Charm," scan the code or visit https://sangabrielwriters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/the-good-luck-charm.pdf