Submitted by Carol Gray Walker
More than two years after writing his Laws of Life essay in 10th grade, Georgia Laws of Life alumnus CJ Allen, linebacker for the University of Georgia Bulldogs, recently reminded us just how lasting one moment of reflection can be.
CJ reposted his essay on Facebook with a simple caption: “My 10th grade project on Laws of Life. Lol read this. Moral of the story—keep going.”
His Law of Life — “Everybody goes through something. It’s all about persevering.”—reflected on football, self-doubt, and the determination to push forward when others, and even he himself, questioned his ability.
Today, CJ has completed his college career at UGA and is pursuing his dream of playing in the NFL. His story powerfully illustrates that Laws of Life essays aren’t just school assignments—they are defining moments that students carry with them long after graduation, shaping how they face challenges and pursue their dreams.
Clubs Recruiting Schools for the 2026–27 Contest
January and February are key planning months for schools, making this an ideal time for Rotary clubs to start conversations about the Laws of Life Essay Contest.
Clubs currently partnering with schools—or exploring new partnerships—can access school recruitment talking points and resources here:
School Information and Talking Points
Early outreach helps ensure schools can plan to participate in the upcoming academic year. We encourage clubs to connect with local schools now and throughout the year.
Calling All Essay Judges
Essay judging is one of the most meaningful ways Rotarians can get involved in the Contest.
Judges read students’ reflections on perseverance, integrity, gratitude, and responsibility—often describing the experience as eye-opening and deeply rewarding.
- Judges are typically Rotarians from sponsoring clubs
- Judges work in teams
- Judging takes place in February and March
- Training and scoring rubrics are provided
Sign up to be an essay judge: https://georgialawsoflife.org/volunteers/
If you are interested in serving as a judge but your club is not currently a sponsor, please reach out directly—judging is a great way to learn more about the contest and its impact.
Invite Your Club to Become a Laws of Life Sponsor
The Georgia Laws of Life Essay Contest is a turnkey Rotary service project that creates lasting connections between clubs, schools, students, and communities.
Now is the perfect time for clubs to:
- Discuss Laws of Life during budget planning
- Commit to sponsoring the contest with a local school
- Provide members with meaningful volunteer opportunities
Sponsoring clubs help bring character education into classrooms while strengthening Rotary’s mission of Service Above Self.
To learn more about becoming a sponsoring club, visit: https://georgialawsoflife.org/why-rotary/
Or contact Carol Gray Walker, Executive Director, to explore partnership opportunities. carol@georgialawsoflife.org
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