A woman who confronted her abusive stepfather. A man who bought a house in Detroit for $500. A 33-year-old who suffered and survived a stroke. Reflections on love, loss, and life in these great essays.

BuzzFeed

Why I Bought a House in Detroit For $500 — Drew Philp

After college, as his friends left Michigan for better opportunities, Drew Philp was determined to help fix his broken, chaotic city by building his own home in the middle of it. He was 23 years old.

hotograph by Mike Williams

When the Monster Saves You — Ashley C. Ford

Ashley Ford came out to her middle school guidance counselor. What happened when, four months later, her counselor was arrested for sexual misconduct.

Christina Lu for BuzzFeed

The Worst Day of My Life Is Now New York's Hottest Tourist Attraction — Steve Kandell

Nearly 13 years after his sister’s death, Steve Kandell paid a reluctant Sunday visit to the 9/11 Memorial Museum, where public spectacle and private grief have a permanent home together.

STAN HONDA / AFP / Getty Images

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