It is amazing that a small green pin on my backpack is larger than life. While small and seemingly insignificant, it reminds me of the touch of friends, some of them gone from everything but memory. The green pin is my reminder to stop during the times that we get too busy to pick up on the meaningful details. In life and relationships, the overall picture and grand gesture are only half of it; it is the small things that matter most. I learned this lesson from two dear friends of mine and one tiny green ribbon.

Two years ago, a close friend of mine was injured in a car accident. He spent the next week of his life in a coma. When he passed away, his family was able to donate his organs. My friend, Steve, thankfully took the time to sign the back of his license and tell his family his wishes to be an organ donor. With this simple act, his life saved a countless number of others. After the funeral, I wore a green ribbon pin, the representation for organ donation, everywhere I went. It was a great way to share his story and inspire other people to pay attention to a great cause. Wearing the pin gave me a connection to his memory. I wore the pin to keep a physical link to my friend. So when one day I came home and noticed that my green ribbon pin had fallen off my backpack, it was devastating. I searched everywhere for it, tearing apart my bed and leaving my room a disaster area. I had lost the last reminder of my friend. My roommate came in to find me obviously upset and was surprised why I was so distraught over such a small thing. After explaining the significance, she finally accepted what the pin had meant.

Weeks went by and I began to forget all about losing the pin. However, my roommate had not forgotten. One weekend she returned from a trip and brought back a gift. She walked into the kitchen holding an Irish Blessing pin that she found for $2. At first, this new, fake gold, cheesy pin could not be a replacement. But soon I realized that it would now carry a new meaning. And my roommate quickly reminded me that if I ever lost it, the pin could be easily replaced for a very nominal fee.

Now every time I see the pin it reminds me of what wonderful friends I still have with me. This thoughtful gift carried so much generosity and genuine care that it means the world to me. From the memory of Steve to the significance of present friendships, the tiny object embodies it all. I am sure that everyone has something so insignificant but so meaningful to them, whether it be a toy, an old photo or even a pin. But everything is relative. The tacky pin makes me smile, but it means nothing to a passerby. Realize that one simple act you do can change a lot. Do not underestimate the power you have to do something. It does not necessarily take much. Sign the back of your driver's license or spend the $2 for a friend. It could change a person's whole world, as it did mine.

If we continue to ignore the small things, it will change nothing. But paying attention to the details could make a greater impact than anyone could imagine. I miss Steve every minute, but I can hold onto the fact that he saved many lives by choosing to be an organ donor. My roommate proved herself an amazing friend with a cheap token and has provided me with a magnificent friendship. Simple acts and decisions have affected many lives in a positive way.

Maybe the little things are the most important.

Darcy McNutt is a senior in LAS. Her columns appear Wednesdays. She can be reached at opinions@dailyillini.com.