Everyone has a specific thing that makes them feel secure. Whether it is an article of clothing, a blanket or another object, it brings people peace and instant comfort.

My form of a security item happens to be a blanket that my grandma made for me when I was a baby. Even at 24 years old, I proudly admit that I sleep with the blanket every night, and can barely sleep without it. Its pink and white, and used to have embroidery of different animals on it. It is full of holes, old and ragged but that blanket literally means everything to me. So much I would run back into a burning building to make sure I could save it.

My grandma actually made me another blanket in order to replace the old one, but nothing can ever replace the relaxing feeling of having it around me. My blanket is so soft and comfortable, and instantly helps me decompress after a hard day.

Sometimes, even in the beginning of the day, I have it around my shoulders to help me prepare for the day. Other people may think I am weird to have a security blanket, but I love it.

Another example of my favorite security item is one of my boyfriend’s hoodies. He gave it to me when we first started dating and we were long distance at that time, so having a hoodie from him helped with the separation. At one time, we went six weeks without being able to see each other. There is nothing like feeling his presence through wearing the hoodie. It even smelled like his cologne.

You may have a hoodie from your significant other, too. If you do, wear it proudly. Be thankful that you have something of theirs that you can always cling to and remind you of them.

I wrap myself in the hoodie and the blanket whenever I feel uncomfortable or unsafe. It brings me instant comfort.

Some of you may have a stuffed animal from your significant other and/or family member, that is your security item. Be proud of that stuffed animal and enjoy it. I am grateful that people think of us enough to give us a special present to remind us of their place in our lives.

I also have a stuffed animal from my boyfriend. When I went to Kent State University, having both the hoodie and the stuffed animal helped with the separation anxiety and with the loneliness I felt.

Whatever your security may be, you should be proud of it, show it off even, if you want to. Never be ashamed to sleep with a blanket or a stuffed animal, or to wear one of your significant other’s hoodies. They remind you that the most important people in your life are always there for you, and that they are always with you. Treasure what they gave you, and always let them know you enjoy the secure feeling their presence brings to your life.

Wrap yourself tightly with the hoodie from your boyfriend, or the blanket from a family member, keep the security item close to you and keep the people who gave it to you even closer.