Realizing that you've been burglarized is like a kick in the gut. I've been there.

Back in 2008, I had just moved out on my own for the first time. I was fortunate enough to be able to afford to rent a nice little house in a nice, quiet neighborhood in Temple. I made a total rookie and moronic mistake, though: I left some items in my car overnight after moving in. I can't remember if I was just tired or figured they'd be fine because the neighborhood was such a nice place, but my neighbor woke me the next morning to let me know my window had been smashed in and my stuff was gone.

I didn't lose anything as valuable as a family heirloom, but I still felt violated. I lost my music collection (this was before streaming was the big deal it is today), several beloved books, and a practically new laptop. Oof.

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A family in Salado recently lost something much more precious and irreplaceable, and they're hoping the thieves will have a change of heart and do the right thing.

Rosemond Crown with our news partners at KWTX-TV reports that burglars struck the home of local musician Bryan Smith on March 12 while and his wife were at work. Among the items taken was a 1970's model Fender guitar left behind by Bryan's uncle, Mike.

Mike and Bryan bonded over their love of music, and Mike left Bryan the guitar when he knew he was dying of cancer.

Addressing the thieves in a video interview with KWTX, Bryan said, "You didn't take a guitar, you took a family bond."

If you're reading this and you took the guitar or know where it is, seriously think about what you're doing with your life and consider giving the guitar back. Just drop it off at the Sheriff's Department or Bryan's house. C'mon. Search your soul. You know what you did is wrong.

Likewise, if you have any information that could help police return this family heirloom to its rightful home, you're asked to call (254) 933-5412.

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