The legendary “Summer of Love” in 1967 was a time of self-expression, experimentation, and questioning conventional norms. For SixContest#102 we’re celebrating the 50th anniversary of this defining era with your stories of liberation and nonconformity in exactly six words. You shared amusing observations (“Must have been a hot summer…”—Silken, with the backstory “Was born 9 months later”), tales of meaningful realizations (“Mistakenly believed we were invincible, immortal.” —rsqdogsmom) and a number of stories complemented with photos that took us back (“He was cool. I was hot.” —@oopsalittle). Introducing the Top Six “Summer of Love”-inspired memoirs:

6. “I can love whom I love.” —JoC.

5. “The sun blushed our naked bodies.” —@CoherentGuile

4. “Then: spiritual journeys. Now: therapeutic microdosing.” —Jordana

3. “His name forgotten, but his touch . . .” —wonderactivist

2. “Olfactory flashback: her scent was patchouli.” —tagishcharley

And finally, the Summer of Love story that fits past, present or future:

1. “Lost: innocence. If found, be gentle.” —canadafreeze

Special thanks to zsuzsu for suggesting this timely contest and submitting many of her own first-hand accounts with compelling backstories. Be sure to read her vivid vignettes, including this tale of teenage rebellion: “I wasn’t your typical ‘Sweet Sixteen.’”

Congratulations, canadafreeze and thanks to everyone who joined in the fun! Whether in our SixContests, on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tumblr or at sixwordmemoirs.com—keep on Sixing!