As editor of the Compassion USA blog, I always love looking back over the year to see which articles resonated with you the most. It gives me a chance to reflect on the powerful stories and photos that come from our photojournalists around the world and writers in the U.S. I also get an idea of what type of content to gather and share with you in the year to come.

It is my pleasure to share incredible stories of transformation — which are possible only because of amazing supporters like you! I hope that reading the blog reminds you of the difference we can make when we come together as one to release children from poverty.

In case you missed them, these were the top stories of 2021 on the Compassion USA blog:

Look at these photos of gardens around the world — and then look again to see what else is there.

In these gardens are vegetables — but also opportunities. Fruits are flourishing — and so are small businesses started by families living in poverty. A fledgling sprout peeking up from the soil can signify a better future for a child. Because people in poverty who can grow successful gardens have not only a source of nutritious food but also a source of income.

On International Women’s Day in March, we wanted to honor the strength of women who live in a variety of circumstances. So we invited 11 women, ages 18 to 91, to sit for a portrait and conversation. In the midst of challenge, their strength was undeniable. Their resilience was inspiring and their faith unshakeable.

Who are these women? Take a look.

We put out a call to our Facebook community asking for the best advice for writing to children in Compassion’s program. Several people answered with great tips on things like:

• Fun ideas for what to send.
• What to ask and say.
• When to write.
• How to write (app, online, stationery, etc.).
• Remembering or making time to write.

This article also gave me the chance to share some insanely adorable photos of 6-year-old Fortune in Togo, who had recently received her first letters from her sponsor.

You love learning all about the 25 countries where sponsors and local churches help children in Compassion’s program. The second-most-popular story we posted to the blog during 2021 was this article about the customs, traditions, people and geography of the fascinating West African country of Togo.

I guess we all needed the reminder, because this is No. 1 on our list of top stories of 2021. As Valentine’s Day approached, we reflected on the truth that God isn’t just loving but is the very definition of love.

Read more to consider God’s attributes demonstrating how he is love.

More Insights From 2021

Most popular topic on the blog: the importance of letter writing

Biggest conversation starter: 5 Tough Questions About Poverty, Answered

Most powerful success story, told in three parts: From Hunger to Hope: A Brave Girl Named Norah

Most-read article of 2021, although it was posted in 2019: Ghana Traditions: Culture, Customs and Society

Thanks for Reading the Compassion USA Blog!

If you’re subscribed to the blog emails, you will notice a difference in how you receive them in January. At Compassion we are making some changes to ensure you get only the most relevant content in your inbox. We’ll now let you know about inspiring new blog stories in a “Best of the Blog” section of a twice-monthly email tailored to your interests in Compassion’s ministry!