Memories

Memories and mementos help me have a deeper understanding for my life.  For the last couple of years of my life, I have constantly carried an individual picture of each of my family members in my wallet as well as a small rock that symbolizes my physical, mental, and spiritual accomplishments.
            The pictures of my family members and the pebble serve a similar purpose.  I constantly carry memoirs of my siblings and parents because it reminds me that I am derived from a strong, caring family.  The peculiarity of my family is depicted through these photographs because they identify my appreciation for the way they raised me.  The pebble that I carry serves more of a purpose other than just remembrance.  This little, inanimate piece of earth provides guidance.  Even though I do not carry it in my pocket everywhere I go, I keep it my car so unavoidably I will see it every day.  After reading the inspirational book The Secret I began to take advantage of looking at the world in a more optimistic prospective.  In the book, they explain that a rock was provided to children living in third-world countries.  Everyday, when a person touches the rock, the person is forced to think of five different things that he/she is grateful for.  I carry this because it has the ability to change my sometimes pessimistic view of situations as well as it allows me to realize that I am raised in a great family that cares immensely for me.  Though most people would view this little rock as something they could find anywhere and that is one out of a million different rocks, I feel that its uniqueness has expanded my life. 
            Memoirs connote individual meaning, help fulfill distant relationships and spark gratitude.  At the most sordid and depressing times in life, a simple memento can instill happiness and encouragement.