Every time I step onto the soccer field, I give my necklace a little kiss.It's a moment to remember why I play this game. It's a chance to calm myself and be at peace with everything that's happening around me. More importantly, it's another opportunity to think about my grandfather.He was my biggest fan and greatest inspiration.Life's struggles never got in the way of his kindness and compassion to other people. Even when he was physically deteriorating, he'd still go out of his way to put a smile on someone else's face. I strive to be like him each and every day.So I wear a necklace with his name and birthstone as a reminder of the life lessons taught and love shown. Without my grandfather, I honestly don't know where I'd be in life.

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