Describe an old object that you have kept for a long time

An old object that I have kept for a long time is a small brass compass that my father gave me when I was ten. It is round, about the size of a large coin, and it has a tiny lid with my initials scratched on it.

My father gave it to me before our first camping trip in the mountains. He explained how it works and showed me how to find north, and then he let me lead the group for part of the hike, which made me feel very important. At that time, the compass was already quite old, because it had belonged to his own father, who used it during his work as a geologist. Over the years, the brass has become dull, and the glass has a small scratch, but it still works perfectly. I keep it in the top drawer of my desk, in a little leather case, and I sometimes take it out to look at it.

I have kept it so long for a few reasons. First, it has a strong sentimental value, as it links three generations of my family. When I hold it, I think about my grandfather in the field, my father teaching me and myself, one day, teaching my own child. Second, it reminds me of one of the happiest times in my childhood, when we spent days walking and sleeping in tents. Third, I simply find it a lovely object. Modern phones have GPS and are far more practical, but they cannot replace something that carries so many memories. I hope to pass it on one day.