While I was in California this past summer I purchased my first Giving Key necklace not really knowing what it was. I was so in love with my key, and I remember saying I never wanted to give it away.

Beginning at the first of the school year my aunt's addiction to alcohol increased rapidly. I felt the need in my heart to give her my Courage necklace but could not give it up.

This past week, while we were Christmas baking I wrote her a letter saying how she needs the Courage more than I do. I told her all the things it helped me to get through, and then gave her the necklace. It was such an overwhelming experience full of joy and sadness.