This April, we ran a poetry contest to celebrate National Poetry Month. We challenged you, our readers, to craft a poem using only the words that appeared in one of our newsletters (here are the original contest guidelines if you want to give it a try).

Turns out, you’re all poets and we didn’t even know it. We were beyond thrilled to read the original, creative, and awe-inspiring poems San Diegans created from our newsletter copy. Check out the poems below, including the contest winner our readers voted for.

✏️ Winner: “life (west coast living)” by Irasema S.

a sunrise transcends oceanside in high tides
while enjoying your favorite coffee and watering healthy thinking
it is a game with a million rules
do partake in it
the exception is we’ll learn something
for it be a craft or to breathe after heavy rains
And allow it to clarify in damaged moments
please continue on your paths
to grant a tension-relieving surf in low tides
into a pink california sunset that celebrates the times

✏️ Finalist: “For my father: Reflections on your cancer” by Lisa M.

You are my favorite person.
You enjoy every day with gusto
and can turn words into gifts.
Now is our chance to honor the moments.
The question is how to be present.
While tomorrow may have a heavy rain cloud,
We can open each day like a sunrise.
We just need more. It is not fair.
You’re unlike anyone, anywhere.
We are just trying to find the words
to show you how we love you.

✏️ Finalist: “Transcending Barriers” by Lynn H.

Today is a day to breathe with gusto
Accelerate green activities, submit to appreciation of surf and sand
It is a day to love your espresso
Unlike limitation, transcend barriers and the earth celebrates
Hello to sunrise
Experience walking, enjoying a lake, a park, a stroll
Stretch your opportunities
Happy camping any time, anywhere is a gift