Biographile's short memoir contest is coming to a close! We’ve seen tremendous voter turnout, but our finalists still need your votes. Read all five stories here, and "Like" only your top choice in the Facebook Like widget on the left-hand side of that story's page.

It isn't easy to confront life's hardships. Sometimes we'd rather forget about them, hiding inside our everyday habits. The writers in this contest not only confronted great challenges; they courageously documented those journeys. Their stories are testament to the pillars of strength, resilience and acceptance constructed in the wake of profound loss. It has been inspiring and uplifting to read these reminiscences, and we would once again like to thank all participants for their raw and honest life portraits.

The essay with the most "Likes" by 11:59 PM EST on May 15 will be People's Choice winner. The staff of Biographile will also be choosing a winner. The authors of each of the two winning essays will win a Barnes and Noble Nook.