Last year, a coworker I barely knew, Jenna, gave me a stunning gold necklace for my birthday. We weren’t close, so the gesture felt deeply meaningful. It became my favorite accessory, worn to work, dinners, and dates. I’d proudly tell admirers, “A coworker gave it to me.”

Months later, while polishing it, I noticed an engraving: “Office Joke.” My heart sank. At work, I casually mentioned it, and the room froze. Someone admitted the necklace was a prank gift, given to employees expected to leave soon. I felt humiliated, having cherished a joke at my expense.

I considered hiding it away. Instead, I chose to reclaim it. At our next meeting, I wore the necklace and declared, “I know about the ‘Office Joke.’ I’m keeping it as my good luck charm since I’m here to stay.” Silence, then nervous laughter followed. The prank was never mentioned again. Jenna later apologized, regretting her part.

Now, I wear the necklace as a symbol of resilience. When complimented, I say, “Thanks, it has quite a history.” It’s no longer their cruel joke—it’s my story of turning humiliation into strength.