Gemotions

The smell of cinnamon and pine needles filled the living room as they sat around the Christmas tree. Maria’s stomach churned. Her brother, David, had announced he was becoming a Jehovah's Witness. The shiny ornaments, the twinkling lights, usually a source of festive joy, now seemed to mock her.

She excused herself to the kitchen and grabbed a glass of water, gripping it so hard her knuckles turned white. The water did nothing to soothe the tightness in her chest. She stared out the window at the snow falling, the beauty of the scene somehow making her situation all the more confusing.

Back in the living room, David was explaining the meaning of the scriptures. Maria just nodded and smiled, the words washing over her like a confusing current.