When I was baptized in December of 2017, one of the sister missionaries who taught me from the very beginning gave me a very special gift. She gave me a tiny heart-shaped necklace that is outlined in eight different colored stones. To many people, this may just seem like any ordinary necklace, but to me, this necklace is one of the most special things that I own.

I have worn this necklace every single day since I was baptized. Yes, for the past four months I put on this necklace every single morning before I start my day, and I will continue to do so. Many people question why this simple piece of jewelry is something that I wear every day and why I love it so much. It holds so much meaning to me beyond it being just a necklace.

I received this gift after my baptism and it is a constant reminder of that day and the covenants that I made when I was baptized and confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Just wearing the necklace reminds me to continue to keep those covenants and live a Christ-centered life.

The necklace is also a personal reminder of the person who gave it to me. Sister Wastlund and I had a very special connection from the day that I met her in October at Ben and Jerry's. I consider her to be not just my friend but my sister and a part of my family. Even though I can only exchange short emails with her while she serves in other areas, this necklace reminds me of the friendship that we have and reminds me that I will someday be able to see her again.

Whenever I have a bad day, I always hold my necklace in my hand and remember that I am loved and that I can survive anything. I mean, if I can become a Mormon in a family full of Baptists, I definitely can do anything!

While some of the simplest things in my life may seem ordinary to most people, it is in these small things, like my necklace, that I receive the most joy.